Phnom Penh: The APSARA National Authority is currently engaged in the restoration of the causeway located at the second terrace of Angkor Wat Temple, a project that commenced in early November 2024. The restoration team has made significant progress in addressing the extensive damage to this historic structure, underlined the authority in a news release this morning.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, Mr. Khem Mony, head of the restoration site, noted that the causeway has suffered severe deterioration over time. Historical photographs from the French colonial period reveal that the causeway was once completely collapsed and had undergone repairs in the past. However, these previous efforts have proven inadequate, as many elements-including pillars, floors, and the Naga balustrade-are now cracked, broken, or missing altogether. The quality of earlier repairs has also deteriorated significantly.

To restore the causeway to its original state, the team has identified and retrieved some pedestals that had been relocated, returning them to their rightful positions. Mr. Mony explained that the restoration process involves dismantling certain sections of the causeway to repair damaged stones and to remove cement from prior repairs. New sandstone is being used to replace missing components such as pedestals, pillars, floor stones, and Naga balustrade.

Additionally, the team is conducting a thorough study of the porch structure. Some pillars and portions of the Naga balustrade require restoration to ensure they align with their original designs, as previous repairs had incorrectly repositioned these elements.