A Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) survey in Puri has revealed possible evidence of an ancient buried city beneath the holy town, including a suspected underground tunnel linking the Shree Jagannath Temple to the sea.
The survey followed discoveries of artefacts such as lion sculptures from the Ganga dynasty during excavation for the Srimandir Parikrama Project. Findings suggest historical remains extend beyond the temple vicinity, covering a wider area beneath Puri.
Experts identified structural remains across 21.6 square metres and detected 43 heritage sites at locations including Emar Math, Nrusingha Temple, Budhi Maa Temple, and along the road leading to the Jagannath Temple. Pottery, metal objects, and daily-use items were also found underground. Specialists recommended controlled excavation and preservation to safeguard the city’s hidden heritage.
Earlier, heavy machinery damaged two lion sculptures during excavation without GPR assistance, sparking controversy. The Archaeological Survey of India later confirmed that the sculptures and a 30-foot wall belonged to the Ganga dynasty. A chamber measuring 7.6 metres by 3 metres was also identified, with researchers suggesting golden idols may have been worshipped there.
The temple administration commissioned the GPR survey at a cost of Rs 40 lakh through OBCC, conducted by IIT Gandhinagar. Confusion arose over the report’s availability, with the temple administration claiming non-receipt, while IIT Gandhinagar insisted it had submitted findings. Advocate Dillip Baral eventually obtained the report via RTI and demanded immediate scientific excavation and preservation.
