Sambhal,

21 December (H.S.): The survey work of the four-member team of Archaeological

Survey of India (ASI) in Sambhal district of Uttar Pradesh continues for the

third consecutive day on Sunday. The ASI team from Lucknow had surveyed six

pilgrimage sites and 20 wells in Sambhal on Friday and Saturday.

The team had

reached the ancient Kalki Vishnu temple on Saturday and stayed there for about

30 minutes, carefully examined every point and collected evidence. The team

also conducted photography and videography to ascertain the historicity of the

dome and other structures here. Recently, during the anti-encroachment campaign

conducted in the district, Shiva temples and closed wells were found in Muslim

dominated areas.

After this, District Magistrate Dr. Rajendra Pansia had

written a letter to the Archaeological Survey of India demanding inspection of

the ancient pilgrimage sites and wells of the district. The ASI team inspected

a total of 19 wells and five pilgrimage sites in Sambhal on Friday and

Saturday.

During this time, the team also took samples for carbon dating of the

ancient Shiva temple located in Khaggu Sarai and the well built in the premises

there. SDM Vandana Mishra had told that the team is trying to find out the age

of the temple and the well.

During the inspection, the experts of the team took

photographs and videography of the dome and other structures, so that their

historicity could be known. It is noteworthy that the historical and religious

importance of Sambhal is very high. It is related to Kalki incarnation. Places

like Krishna Kupa and Kalki Vishnu Temple are included in the ancient heritage

here. Possibilities of conservation and reconstruction of these sites will be

considered based on the ASI report. This will not only highlight the historical

importance of these places but will also promote tourism.

Hindusthan Samachar / Abhishek Awasthi