Several idols installed at the Mahakal Lok corridor in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, were damaged due to strong gusty winds on Sunday evening. This incident occurred months after the inauguration of the first phase of the Mahakal Lok corridor project by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in October of the previous year. The corridor, known as one of the longest in the country, is a part of the redevelopment project surrounding the revered Mahakaleshwar temple, one of the 12 ‘jyotirlingas’ in India.
According to Ujjain Collector Kumar Purshottam, out of the 160 idols installed at the Mahakal Lok corridor, six idols collapsed and got damaged as the area was swept by strong winds. It is important to note that these idols were not situated inside the temple itself but within the corridor. The authorities have assured that the damaged idols will be restored to their original condition.
The Mahakal Lok project, with a total cost of Rs 856 crore, aims to revitalize the old Rudrasagar lake and create a corridor around the temple. The first phase of the project alone cost Rs 351 crore. The corridor not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the area but also provides a serene pathway for devotees to approach the temple.
The incident has drawn attention to the need for better weather monitoring infrastructure in Ujjain. J P Vishwakarma, the Duty Officer at India Meteorological Department’s Bhopal centre, mentioned that there is currently no Automatic Weather Station in Ujjain to measure wind speeds accurately. He stated that they will be demanding the installation of such a station to better assess the weather conditions in the future.
The Mahakal Lok corridor project has been a significant undertaking, aiming to rejuvenate the surroundings of the Mahakaleshwar temple and provide an improved experience for visitors. The corridor not only highlights the religious and cultural significance of the temple but also showcases the architectural and artistic brilliance of the region.
Efforts are already underway to restore the damaged idols and ensure that the Mahakal Lok corridor remains a magnificent pathway for devotees and tourists alike. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of sturdy infrastructure and proper maintenance to withstand natural elements and preserve the heritage of such revered sites.
