Activists Raise Concern Over Wall at Jamali Darwaza

Hyderabad: Historians and heritage activists have raised concerns over the construction of a wall that has altered the original appearance of the historic Jamali Darwaza at the Golconda Fort. A wall reportedly was constructed on a part of the protected monument, encroaching upon the Jamali Darwaza portion that had been originally built as a shelter for the guards who protected the Golconda fort gateways.

Pointing out the wall that had come up in the last 15 days, activists and locals said it reflected the officials' apathy and negligence of the officials. Activist Md Habeebuddin said the Golconda fort is not just limited to its citadel, but it has a large number of ancient monuments, gateways, boundaries and moats that have already been encroached upon. But no action has been taken.

Historians said such encroachments damage the original structures. Due to continued neglect, encroachments are increasing day-by-day, said Abdul Hafeez, a resident. He added that even a tin shed encroachment near Moti Darwaza had remained the same for the last two years without being removed.

Anuradha Reddy, convener of the Hyderabad chapter of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (Intach), said the custodian authority should file a complaint and take appropriate action, as it is a protected monument. In the case of unprotected monuments, creating public awareness is the only way to protect them.

The local police, however, said that after issuing a notice shortly, the encroachment would be removed.