Work begins on strengthening base of historic temple after fears a quake or major downpour may cause it to collapse

A Bt6.6-million renovation of Doi Suthep Pagoda has begun, after the historic structure was found to be severely impaired and at risk of collapse.

The renovation, funded by the central government, began on June 4 and is expected to be completed in six months.

Copper-plated chedi

Wallop Namwongprom, a committee member of Doi Suthep Foundation, said the copper-plated chedi was at risk of falling down because of its high location - if there was an earthquake or a massive downpour.

"Chiang Mai is located on active earthquake faults. The base of the temple could possibly slide down in the event of heavy rain or an earthquake, since it has been suspending the whole temple for many decades," Wallop said.

The Fine Arts Department of Chiang Mai was appointed to oversee the restoration of the temple with Rung Juntabun, a Lanna-style architect.

The team kicked off the project early last month by removing the sacred apex of the pagoda so it could be stored elsewhere during the reconstruction.

Workers have continued drilling and installing pipes to decrease the moisture level around the chedi, as well as re-tiling the floors.

Wallop said visitors were still allowed to enter and pay respect at the Doi Suthep temple, as the renovation team had not found any major cracks in the construction.