Officials of Telangana's Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) today stated that they were deeply committed to protecting the Ramappa Temple in Mulugu district.
The SCCL officials also denied the allegations that the proposed mining activities at Venkatapur posed a threat to the 13th century heritage structure.
"The surface mining at Venkatapur will not in any way endanger the Mulugu temple. The works are currently only at the proposal stage. No decision has been taken on the matter yet. Using a scientific approach we will ensure that the works, when they are taken up, do not harm any historic structures. Following the directions issued by the Telangana government, we will proceed with current mining activities," they reiterated.
"Only if the government instructs us will we proceed with the proposed mining activities at Venkatapur. Further, all mining activity will be undertaken only as per the existing procedures and norms without causing harm or damage to any assets or historic structures," officials clarified.
The famed Ramappa temple was recently included in the list of the UNESCO's world heritage sites.
The proposal to make the 13th century structure a heritage site had received the backing of 17 countries at the World Heritage Committee (WHC) meetings. Norway was the only nation that had opposed the move.
On either side of the beautiful structure, lie the ruins of the Kateshwarayya and the Kameshwarayya temples. It is known for its intricate architecture and ornate relief work as well as its unique use of local materials.