The Tungnath temple, recognized as the highest temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, is encountering significant structural issues that threaten its integrity. Located at an elevation of 3,680 meters in Uttarakhand’s Rudraprayag district, the temple is experiencing problems such as water leakage, subsidence, and a deteriorating foundation, exacerbated by the recent heavy monsoon rains. These conditions have raised serious concerns regarding the safety and stability of the ancient site, particularly for the many devotees and tourists who visit.
Traditionally believed to have been built by the Pandavas after the Kurukshetra war, Tungnath is not only a place of worship but also a site of great cultural and historical significance. In light of the temple’s deteriorating condition, the Badrinath Kedarnath Temple Committee, under the leadership of Ajendra Ajay, has reached out to the Geological Survey of India (GSI) and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) for expertise in restoration methods. Both organizations dispatched expert teams to assess the temple’s condition in September and have since provided recommendations aimed at preventing further damage.
Ajay noted that the temple is confronting severe structural challenges, including subsidence, weakening walls, and shifting slates, which have led to persistent water leakage, particularly during the rainy season. To enhance the safety measures, the temple committee has also sought help from the Central Building Research Institute (CBRI).
Manoj Saxena, a superintendent archaeologist at ASI, mentioned that while the temple is not officially protected by ASI regulations, their team visited the site to offer guidance. The next steps will depend on the temple committee and the Uttarakhand government’s willingness to act on the recommendations provided.
In response to the pressing issues, Uttarakhand’s tourism minister, Satpal Maharaj, affirmed that the state government is prioritizing repairs to ensure the temple remains safe for visitors. He emphasized the importance of addressing the water leakage and structural problems to maintain the site’s integrity and continue attracting pilgrims and tourists alike.
As the government and various agencies work to address these challenges, the future stability of the Tungnath temple remains a critical concern. The collective efforts of local authorities, geological experts, and heritage preservationists will play a pivotal role in safeguarding this revered site for generations to come.
