The Archaeology Department is starting conservation work at the Aruvikkara temples in Neyyattinkara taluk in the district.
The Aruvikkara temple complex dates back to the 16th century and is located on the banks of the Neyyar river at Aruvikkara. It comprises a Vishnu, Siva-Parvathi, and Sastha temple. The Vishnu idol in stone is noted for its craftsmanship. The Sastha temple is the smallest apsidal temple protected by the Department. Administrative sanction has been received for the ₹40-lakh project and e-tenders have been invited for implementing the work.
Another project is restoration of the structure and murals at the Thodeekkalam temple, near Kannavam, Thalassery, in Kannur district. Work on the ₹72-lakh project will begin soon. Lord Siva is the chief deity of the 16th century temple. The wall of the sanctum sanctorum is decorated with mural paintings. The Department had conserved the paintings earlier in 2003.
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The Department has drawn up a ₹80-lakh project for conservation and beautification of Chandragiri Fort in Kasaragod. e-tender procedures are under way. Plan is to finish work on the fort, on the banks of the Chandragiri river, this year, Archaeology Director J. Rejikumar said.
The Department also plans to conduct a scientific inventory of the coins in its possession. Details such as weight, diameter, period to which a coin belongs, where it was found, and its historical importance will be documented. The help of experts from within and outside the State will be sought.
A study for reorganisation of the Department is also being considered. A panel will be constituted for this. The aim is to strengthen each wing, be it epigraphy or numismatics or excavation, Mr. Rejikumar said.
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Professional and advanced training will be given to all employees of the Department for capacity building. Training will be provided by experts from Archaeological Survey of India, National Research Laboratory for Conservation of Cultural Property, Indian Institute of Technology, among others.