IIT-Madras experts to conduct safety audit of Kashi Vishwanath Temple in November

The initiative centers on the shikhara (spire) located at the north-west corner above the temple’s sanctum sanctorum, which sustained damage in April 2026

An expert team from IIT-Madras is scheduled to visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple complex in November 2026 to conduct structural safety assessments. The visit follows a preliminary report submitted in July 2026, which identified environmental degradation to natural stone and wood structures.

Temple complex of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor (File)

The initiative centers on the shikhara (spire) located at the north-west corner above the temple’s sanctum sanctorum, which sustained damage in April 2026. Addressing concerns regarding the incident and subsequent rumors of missing gold, divisional commissioner and Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple executive committee president S Rajalingam confirmed that the damaged shikhara has been safely stored in its original condition within the temple’s locker.

“The team will conduct necessary technical tests to assess the structure’s condition and formulate a conservation plan aligned with scientific and technical standards,” stated a communique regarding the upcoming November visit.

The temple trust emphasised that all conservation and repair efforts are being managed through expert technical consultation to safeguard the site’s religious, historical and archaeological integrity. The planned inspections aim to provide a detailed roadmap for preserving the temple’s ancient structure while ensuring its long-term safety.