Massive stone idol awaits safety clearance before reaching temple
Devotees waiting for the arrival of the world's largest Shivling at the Virat Ramayan Mandir will have to wait a little longer. The massive monolith, weighing a staggering 210 tonnes, is currently stationary at a check post in the Gopalganj district of Bihar. The halt comes after serious technical concerns were raised regarding the structural integrity of a key bridge on its route.
The primary obstacle is the Dumaria Ghat Bridge, which spans the Gandak River. District Magistrate Pawan Kumar Sinha has paused the movement of the heavy cargo following an initial inspection that revealed cracks in several sections of the bridge. Given that the Shivling is being transported on a massive 106-wheel trailer—which itself weighs 160 tonnes—the combined weight of 370 tonnes poses a significant risk to the aging structure.
Technical experts from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the Bihar Rajya Pul Nirman Nigam Limited (BRPNNL) have been summoned to conduct a thorough safety audit. Until these engineers provide a formal clearance, the idol will remain at the Balathari check post. Local authorities are currently exploring alternate routes, including a path through Bettiah in West Champaran, but every potential road faces similar hurdles with smaller bridges and culverts that may not support such extreme weight.
This 210-tonne marvel began its epic 2,100-kilometer journey in late November from Mahabalipuram. It has traveled across five states, drawing thousands of followers who gathered along highways to offer prayers and flowers. The destination is the Virat Ramayan Mandir in East Champaran, where an elaborate installation ceremony is planned for January 17.
Despite the current logistical delay, preparations at the temple site continue in full swing. The upcoming ceremony is expected to be a grand affair, featuring a ritualistic 'abhishek' using water from five holy rivers and a spectacular flower shower from helicopters. For now, the administration remains focused on public safety, ensuring that the journey of this historic idol concludes without any structural accidents.
