Siem Reap: The APSARA National Authority is currently engaged in preparing a risk map for the Naga balustrades surrounding the first floor of Angkor Wat Temple, the authority said in a news release on June 24.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, this initiative is part of a broader effort to assess and enhance the structural integrity of these significant architectural features before undertaking restoration work. Mr. Soy Sophearin, a technical officer for stone conservation, noted that the Naga balustrades extend over a length of 950 metres on the first floor of Angkor Wat. The mapping and assessment process has been ongoing for the past 12 months, with over 450 metres of the balustrades already evaluated. This assessment is crucial for identifying high-risk areas, previously repaired sections, and overall risk factors affecting the structure.

The study revealed that certain sections of the Naga balustrades are at high risk due to various factors, including the natural aging of the materials, environment
al influences, water erosion, and insect damage, the same source added.

Once the risk assessment and design phase are complete, the APSARA National Authority plans to proceed with a phased restoration and strengthening of the Naga balustrades. Notably, during 2022-2023, significant progress was made in restoring both the Naga balustrades and the staircase on the southern side of Angkor Wat.