Ayodhya, 26 June 2024 – The newly constructed Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, built at an estimated cost of ₹1800 crores, has developed cracks and leaks following the first heavy rain of the season, less than six months after its inauguration. The temple, which has been a focal point of religious and political significance in India, saw water leakage from its roof, raising concerns about its construction quality.

On Saturday midnight, Ayodhya experienced its first pre-monsoon rain, leading to water accumulation inside the temple and its surrounding complex. This has sparked a viral discussion on social media and raised questions about the temple's drainage system. 

The heavy rain also caused significant damage to Ayodhya's infrastructure, with five major roads, including three on the Ram Path, collapsing. Large potholes have appeared near the Rikabganj road junction and in front of the police line.

Despite the involvement of renowned scientists and assistance from the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) in the temple's construction, the issues with the roof have left many shocked. 

Nripendra Mishra, chairman of the temple construction committee of the Sri Ramjanmbhoomi Tirtha Kshetra Trust, asserted that there were no technical, equipment, or quality compromises in the temple's construction. He attributed the water leakage to issues with the temple's power lines rather than structural defects.

The Ram Mandir was inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 22 this year, amidst allegations that the event was politically timed ahead of the Lok Sabha polls. These allegations were denied by the BJP government.

Expressing concern, Ram Mandir head priest Acharya Satendra Das told news agency ANI that the sanctum sanctorum, where the idol of Ramlala is installed, started leaking in the first rain. He called for immediate attention to identify and rectify the shortcomings.

The temple's construction committee has pledged to address the issues swiftly to ensure the sanctity and structural integrity of the Ram Mandir.