#Unlock2.0: ASI-protected ‘non-living’ monuments all set to reopen in Odisha

Keywords: Archaeological Survey of India, Konark sun temple, Khandagiri hills, Udaygiri hills, Dhauli stupa
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is re-opening protected ‘non-living’ monuments in the state from July 7. In a letter issued to the Bhubaneswar circle office on Friday, the ASI informed that 31 centrally protected monuments and sites and two museums will re-open for tourists in Odisha, following the standard operating procedure outlined by the central and state governments and the local administration. Non-living monuments are those where religious activities don’t take place.

However, the Sun temple in Konark and other monuments in Puri will not re-open owing to restrictions imposed by the Puri district administration.
The ASI also wants people to follow all safety and hygiene protocols while visiting these sites. People have to buy e-tickets and will be allowed entry after mandatory hand hygiene and thermal scanning. Single-line and designated entry and exit routes and routes for movement within the monuments will have to be marked. “No group photography is allowed and crowding inside the premises is barred. Our staff will be well-protected. Museums will be regularly sanitised,” Arun Malik, superintending archeologist, Bhubaneswar circle of ASI, told us.