TIRUCHY: A portion of the East Gopuram of Srirangam Sri Ranganathaswamy temple collapsed in the wee hours of Saturday. Since the crash happened in early hours, there was no loss of lives or injuries.

Officials after inspecting the spot assured to take up the restoration works soon. Of the 21 gopurams (towers) in the temple the Rajagopuram, which measures 236 ft, is the tallest.

Residents had spotted a crack on the ill-fated gopuram in early July itself. Subsequently, Rs 98 lakh was sanctioned for renovation works.

Meanwhile, around 2 am on Saturday, a portion of the gopuram collapsed and minor sculptures fell down from the second tier. Had it been during the daytime, it would have caused even fatality as people mostly exit through east gopuram only to reach their houses, said a resident of the holy town.

On information, HR&CE Joint Commissioner S Sivaramkumar along with a team inspected the spot and ordered to clear the debris as soon as possible.

Talking to reporters, Sivaramkumar said the fund was sanctioned as soon as the crack on the wall was noticed.

The incident took place at time when the renovation was about to start as tenders have already been called for the works. Anyway, the renovation will be carried out soon in consultation with technical experts,” the Joint Commissioner said and added that the restoration would be carried out without affecting the heritage.

Meanwhile, the public movement through the east gopuram has been restricted for safety reasons.