The APSARA National Authority (ANA) has initiated an emergency conservation project at Baksei Chamkrong, an early 10th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Recent inspections revealed that the upper tiers of the brick sanctuary are suffering from extreme moisture infiltration, leading to the rapid deterioration of the ancient mortar. The project aims to replace rotted bricks with new, technically compliant materials to prevent further structural failure.
This restoration phase is particularly focused on sealing the interior and exterior walls against rainwater, which has been the primary driver of masonry decay. Conservation specialists are also removing invasive vegetation whose roots have penetrated deep into the stone joints. Baksei Chamkrong is historically significant as one of the first temples to use durable materials like laterite and brick in a pyramid style, serving as a prototype for the later grand monuments of Angkor.