Hyderabad: Mild tension gripped the Second Lancer area of Langar Houz when Army officers halted work on extending the roof of a mosque. The managing committee of Masjid ek Khana was extending the roof of the mosque as those who came to pray were facing problems in the summer heat. They also used to face problems every year during rains as water used to enter the mosque premises and the faithful had a difficult time while praying.
“Work on extending the roof began after some collective effort, but Army officers objected saying that that we don’t have permission for the extension,” said Taj Mohammed, a member of the managing committee.
He added, “The Army also filed a complaint at Langar Houz police station. We are hoping the issue will get sorted out soon and the faithful will get relief from the hot sun and the rains.”
Karwan MLA Kausar Mohiuddin said, “This mosque belongs to the Qutub Shahi period. I had informed the collector 15 days ago about the roof extension works but there was no response from him. Works to protect historical monuments does not need permission. However, the collector has promised to hold a meeting soon and sort out the issue.”
When contacted the Langar Houz inspector said, “The issue is not a major one. We are contacting both parties. We have also requested the mosque authorities to get formal approval from the GHMC to carry out the roof extension works.”
RDO Chandrakala said, “The issue started when the mosque authorities started extending the roof as otherwise the faithful would face problems during the Ramzan season. But Army officers said that no construction can be carried out in the specified area.”
