PURI: Preparations for the counting of the Ratnabhandar’s jewels are set to begin in the New Year, while a final report on the vault’s structure will be submitted within a week. The state government on Friday confirmed this and clarified that no hidden tunnel lies within the Ratnabhandar (treasure vault) of the Jagannath Temple in Puri, countering long-standing rumours.
The latest GPR survey conducted in the temple premises showed no indication of secret chambers or concealed assets. Preliminary studies revealed minor cracks in the vault, although these do not pose any immediate threat to the temple’s structure, according to officials. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is expected to begin necessary repairs on the vault after the Kartik Purnima festivities conclude, as the month of Kartik draws large numbers of devotees to the temple.