Ramappa Temple Under Threat?

A proposed open-cast coal mine near the historic Ramappa Temple in Telangana’s Mulugu district has triggered concerns over the safety of the 800-year-old UNESCO World Heritage Site and the adjoining Ramappa Lake. Singareni Collieries has proposed the mine at Venkatapur, around five kilometres from the temple. The project is expected to produce nearly 40 million tonnes of coal through excavation reaching around 300 metres deep, with mining operations reportedly planned for nearly 19 years. The Kakatiya Rudreshwara Temple, popularly known as Ramappa Temple, was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2021. UNESCO has highlighted its unique sandbox foundation and its close relationship with the surrounding landscape and Ramappa Lake.

The Kakatiya Heritage Trust is examining the possible impact of mining, blasting and deep excavation on the temple and lake. Experts consulted by the Trust have reportedly raised concerns about geological faults, rock fractures and groundwater pathways in the region. The Ramappa Lake, with an estimated storage capacity of around 3 TMC, is another major concern, as changes in groundwater movement could potentially affect the lake bund and downstream areas. The Trust is reportedly considering legal action against the project, while discussions over an alternative mining location could lead to differences between the Centre and Telangana government. The controversy has once again highlighted the challenge of balancing mineral extraction and energy needs with the protection of Telangana’s globally recognised cultural heritage.