Bhubaneswar, June 25: Every year during the monsoons, the compound of the majestic Sisireswar temple in the Old Town of here used to turn into a pool.

But after the heritage site is now regularly taken care of and relieved of the waterlogging. The Telegraph has consistently highlighted the plight of the heritage structure.

Protected by the Archaelogical Survey of India (ASI), the 8th century temple is situated at the Rath road of the Old Town. From regular cleaning the growth of wild vegetation on the temple structure to finding a solution to the accumulation of rainwater, there were many issues threatening the safety of the ancient structure.

But after regular efforts by The Telegraph, ASI takes care of the site, popularly known as ‘Teen Mundia mandir’.

“The sanctum sanctorum and its surroundings areas used to get filled with rainwater. It used be impossible to stand in knee deep water to perform rituals,” said a preist of the temple.

“Though even now there is a chance of water accumulation, if it rains hard. The authorities take prompt action by the deposited water using pumps. The temple is also cleaned from time to time,” said Rabi Garabadu, a local resident.

Regular repair works and restoration of the temple and the swift action when water accumulates on the compound has changed the face of the monument. It now wears a healthy look.

“Sisireswar temple had no drainage issues about 15 years ago. The structure was originally built with a drainage outlet system to ensure the waterlogging did not take place on the premises. Since it has been rampantly encroached on various sides and the level of road is much higher now, the drains are choked,” said A.K. Patel, superintending archaeologist of the Archaeological Survey of India (Bhubaneswar Circle).

He said it was not possible to repair the drainage system at present, but the ASI had taken up the job of regularly pumping out deposited water.

Despite the efforts of ASI, however, the lack of heritage conservation awareness among local residents is marring the appearance of new structures built inside the temple since.

The structures include the office of a servitors’ group of the Shaivite temple. At present, the structure has been painted in a repulsive fluorescent green paint that is lending a repelling look to the temple.