Hyderabad: The proposed demolition of the steps of the koneru (tank) of an ancient temple dating back to 11th Century AD for Krishna Pushkaralu in Nalgonda district has kicked up a row. The department of archaeology and museums has objected to the irrigation and other departments regarding demolition of the ancient steps and constructing new ones for the pushkaralu. The Chaya Someshwara Swamy temple, and the koneru, is located on a half-acre site in Panagal of Nalgonda district. It is a protected monument under the department of archaeology and museums. There are seven stone steps each on three sides of the temple tank.
Officials involved in the Krishna Pushkaralu works are contemplating demolishing the old stone steps and constructing new cement steps for bathing purposes.There are also plans to link the Udayasamudram reservoir, which receives Krishna waters, to the temple tank for the Pushkaralu. “The contractor, on instructions of the irrigation superintending engineer, visited the koneru and planned to demolish the age-old stone steps and construct cement ones. I objected to this since it’s part of the protected monument,” said Mr P. Nagaraju, assistant director, archaeology and museums (Nalgonda / Mahbubnagar).
He took the issue to the notice of the district revenue officer who assured him that he would take it up with the collector and get the demolition stopped. The contractor insisted that he was issued a work order and would carry out the work. “We will not allow it since it’s a protected monument,” Mr Nagaraju said. The state government has planned massive arrangements for the Krishna Pushkaralu on the lines of the Godavari Pushkaralu and is planning to construct over 50 ghats in Mahbubnagar and Nalgonda districts for the convenience of an estimated 2 crore pilgrims. The 12-day Krishna Pushkara Pushkaralu starting from August 12 is also called Maha Kumbha Mela which comes once every 144 years.
