Shiva Temple: Structural Emergency at World's Tallest Shiva Temple: Urgent Repairs Required |

Dehradun: Tungnaththe highest temple dedicated to Lord Shiva at an altitude of 3,680 meters UttarakhandRudraprayag district faces major structural challenges including Water leakageSubsidence and a weak foundation, all of which worsened during the monsoon season. The ongoing heavy rains have accelerated the damage and raised concerns about the stability and safety of the ancient temple for visiting worshipers and tourists. Locals believed that the temple was built by the Pandavas of Mahabharat after the Kurukshetra war.
In response to this, the… Badrinath Kedarnath Temple Committeeled by Ajendra Ajay approached the Geological Survey of India (GSI) and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to explore possible restoration methods. Both organizations sent teams of experts to inspect the site in September. After assessing the condition, they submitted their recommendations to the temple committee on measures to protect the temple from further damage.
“The temple is facing serious problems like subsidence, weakening foundation and shifting wall slates, which have led to water leakage, especially during the rainy season,” Ajay said. The committee has also sought assistance from the Central Building Research Institute (CBRI) to ensure the security of the temple. Ajay said that once they receive the suggestions from CBRI, they will proceed with comprehensive repair, restoration and beautification activities.
Manoj Saxena, senior archaeologist at ASI, told TOI, “Although the temple is not officially protected by ASI, our team visited the site and made our recommendations. Now it is up to the temple committee and the state government to take necessary measures.”
Tourism Minister Satpal Maharaj also addressed the issue and said: “In view of the water leakage and structural problems of the temple, the government is prioritizing repairs to ensure that the structure remains safe for all visitors.” Restoration work is expected move forward quickly once the CBRI's final report is available. The aim of the repair and beautification work is to preserve the historical and spiritual significance of the temple while ensuring that its structure remains stable.