SIEM REAP: Technicians of the APSARA Authority are repairing the foundation of the 22nd brick tower of Bakong Temple, which is dilapidated and in great danger of collapse.

Archaeologist and head of conservation of the Rolous area of the APSARA Authority, Saray Kimhuol, said that the temple is in critical condition and that the structure needs strengthening and repairing to restore value to the ancient building.

He said that the repair is highly challenging with cracks extending from the top to bottom of some of the towers, which are only being made more pronounced with the effects of climate change. His team is sealing cracks in the walls to prevent water infiltration and to reinforce some of the related structures using cables to support the tower.

Saray Kimhuol said that the current focus is on strengthening the foundation and securing high-risk points. His team is also removing young plants from the tower, clearing the structure of soil and scraping off moss.

Work to stabilize the 22nd brick tower of Bakong temple began in 2019.