Government of India launches scheme for 100 % solarisation of Konark sun temple & Konark town

News:Government of India has launched a scheme for 100% solarisation of Konark sun temple and Konark town in Odisha.

Facts:

• Objective: To develop the historical Sun temple town of Konark in Odisha as ‘Surya Nagri’ and to convey a message of synergy between the modern use of solar energy and the ancient Sun Temple.
• Implementation: Odisha Renewable Energy Development Agency.
• Plan: It envisages setting up of the 10-MW grid connected solar project and various solar off-grid applications such as solar trees, solar drinking water kiosks and off-grid solar power plants with battery storage.
• Funding: 100% Central Financial assistance(CFA) support through the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.

Konark Sun Temple:

• It was built in the 13th century by King Narasimhadeva I (AD 1238-1264) of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty and is located near the sacred city of Puri, Odisha.
• The temple is a classic example of the Odisha style of Architecture or Kalinga Architecture.
• It was given the status of a World Heritage Site in 1984 by UNESCO.
• The temple is carefully oriented towards the east so that the first rays of sunrise strikes the principal entrance. 
• It was also known as Black Pagoda due to its tower which appeared as black and was also used as a navigational landmark by sailors to Odisha.