Megalithic Site Buried Under Garbage At Hasmathpet
Historian Dr Dyavanpalli Satyanarayana said the site, first discovered in the early 1900s, dates back to the 2nd century BC. Excavations were conducted during the Nizam’s period in 1934‑35 and later by the Birla Archaeological and Cultural Research Institute in 1971. Agricultural and iron implements, stone axes and pottery discovered during the excavations are preserved in the Birla Museum, he added
HYDERABAD: What was once an ancient megalithic site now lies buried under heaps of garbage at Hasmathpet. The 2,300‑year‑old cairn site, a protected monument, has turned into a dumping ground, with its tin shed, fencing and signage in poor condition.
The site lacks proper protection and public awareness, leaving the historic remains vulnerable to neglect and damage. Located in a residential area, the monument has no clear signage, making it difficult for visitors to even locate. Locals said the site has remained in the same state for years, and anyone interested in visiting may have to search the area for an hour.
Karthik Vatsavayi, an IT professional, said the damaged tin shed covering the site should be replaced and proper fencing installed to prevent garbage dumping. “The site should be cleaned and damaged signage replaced with boards explaining its historical importance,” he said, adding that awareness must be created among residents about its significance. HYDRAA has recently protected the site from encroachments.
Historian Dr Dyavanpalli Satyanarayana said the site, first discovered in the early 1900s, dates back to the 2nd century BC. Excavations were conducted during the Nizam’s period in 1934‑35 and later by the Birla Archaeological and Cultural Research Institute in 1971. Agricultural and iron implements, stone axes and pottery discovered during the excavations are preserved in the Birla Museum, he added.
The megalithic site shows that the city’s history dates back around 2,300 years, serving as an important testimony to its past. Heritage activists said the site needs immediate revival and restoration. They suggested developing it as a site museum to preserve and display the remains, and promoting it as a megalithic heritage and tourism destination.
