Relentless rain over the past week has caused significant damage and poses a serious threat to heritage monuments in Hyderabad. Each time it rains, a piece of the city’s glorious past falls or caves in. The continuous rainfall is particularly impacting centuries-old monuments in the Old city areas, which have been in a state of neglect despite ongoing repairs by the State government.
Monuments such as clock towers, gateway arches, devdis, and religious structures, including the Hussaini Alam Kaman, Shalibanda clock tower, portions of Golconda Fort, Badshahi Ashoorkhana, and Kursheedjah Devdi, are facing a serious threat.
Last year, the government announced the repair of the Qutb Shahi Badshahi Ashoorkhana, but the work was halted due to the start of Moharram. Although there is no water seepage after the repair work, it is yet to be completed. The Naqar Khana, Abdar Khana, and Niyaz Khana under Badshahi Ashoorkhana suffered extensive damage during the 1908 floods but have since been temporarily repaired.
The Aga Khan Trust and the Quli Qutub Shah Urban Development Authority (QQSUDA) have taken up restoration work on the Ashoorkhana, with a focus on strengthening the roof and floor. Similarly, the dilapidated condition of Hussaini Alam Kaman poses a danger to commuters and inhabitants. Locals have expressed concern over the condition of this historic arch and other structures in the Old city area and have requested government intervention for restoration.
Despite its crumbling state, many people continue to pass under the kaman every day as it is a major road for commuters. Immediate attention is required to prevent any incident as parts of the entrance may collapse due to lack of maintenance and deterioration.
