Scientific restoration of Alipiri Padalamandapam in Tirupati enters crucial phase

The scientific restoration of the historic Alipiri Padalamandapam in Tirupati, located at the beginning of the traditional footpath leading to the hill shrine of Lord Venkateswara, has entered a crucial phase, with soil samples collected from the site sent to the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Warangal for detailed geotechnical analysis.

The centuries-old structure at Alipiri, where pilgrims traditionally offer prayers before embarking on the sacred trek to Tirumala temple, was recently dismantled through a carefully monitored scientific process under the guidance of experts and under the supervision of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

The dismantling of the iconic mandapam was carried out a couple of months ago with utmost caution, safeguarding even the minutest architectural elements.

ASI Director (Epigraphy) K. Muniratnam Reddy said the removal of the structure marked the first step in a larger conservation driven initiative aimed at restoring the mandapam on a technically sound and durable foundation without compromising its historical character.

As part of the next stage, soil samples from the site have been jointly collected by engineers and experts from NIT Warangal in coordination with the Pune-based Lord Venkateswara Religious Charitable Trust authorities, which are funding the restoration works. The samples will undergo comprehensive geotechnical testing to determine the strength, composition and load bearing capacity of the soil. The findings will guide the design of a scientifically robust foundation for the structure.

Based on the results of the analysis, engineers will prepare a foundation plan to ensure that the reconstructed mandapam remains structurally stable for generations while retaining its original architectural identity.

Mr. Muniratnam Reddy emphasised that the entire process is being carried out in close consultation with conservation experts and in adherence to heritage protection norms prescribed by the ASI.

He also said that the restoration works are being executed under constant surveillance through CCTV cameras to ensure transparency and monitoring at every stage.

Once the geotechnical studies are completed and the design is finalised, work relating to laying the new foundation and resetting the dismantled structure will commence according to the predetermined schedule.