The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has initiated a sand extraction project at the Jagamohan assembly hall of the Konark Sun Temple in Odisha, India, marking the first major intervention in 123 years. This effort aims to stabilize the 13th-century monument, which has been sealed since the early 1900s when British engineers filled it with sand to prevent collapse. The extraction is expected to take three months and involves creating a 6 ft by 5 ft passage for manual sand removal, supported by robotic systems to ensure safety. ASI officials, including Superintending Archaeologist Dibishada Garnayak, emphasized that this is a scientific conservation exercise, conducted under strict supervision and advanced engineering methods, to prevent structural damage. The project has been in planning for 22 years, involving extensive technical studies and assessments. The Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a significant cultural landmark, built by King Langula Narasingha Deva I to honor the Sun God. Despite concerns from conservationists, ASI is committed to ensuring the monument's long-term stability.