The repair work on the cracks that have developed in some parts of the famous Sri Meenakshi Amman temple in Madurai began on January 20, from the Naicker Mandapam in the second enclosure of the temple.

Sthapathi Muthiah said the three-tonne pillar, which developed cracks, would be replaced by a new pillar with the same carvings and design at a cost of Rs 4 lakh. The work would be over in three months.

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The cracks in other enclosures would be taken up in a phased manner and the work would be completed in three years, he said.

According to official sources, cracks had developed in more than 10 places and they would be taken up one by one without causing discomfort to the faithful and the pilgrims.

The repair work began with yagasala poojas conducted by the temple priests. (Agencies)