Despite Hyderabad’s rich historical legacy, many heritage structures in the city are facing severe neglect and risk of collapse. Experts and conservationists have raised concerns that current restoration efforts are inadequate and largely cosmetic, failing to address structural damage.
Several important monuments around areas like Charminar and Laad Bazaar are deteriorating rapidly. Notable examples include the 400-year-old Alawa Sartouq building at Darul Shifa, which once served as a hospital, and the Jillu Khana arch, which has lost much of its plaster. Other structures, such as the Kaman of Shaikh Faiz and tombs of historical figures, are also in poor condition due to neglect and encroachments.
Historians warn that many of these structures may not survive the upcoming monsoon season if urgent restoration measures are not taken. Temporary repairs carried out so far have not been sufficient to preserve their architectural integrity.
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has reportedly not initiated major restoration projects recently, and the State Archaeology Department has been limited to minor patchwork. Conservationists are urging authorities to adopt scientific restoration methods and allocate more resources to protect these sites.
Preserving these monuments is crucial not only for cultural heritage but also for tourism and the city’s identity. Without immediate action, Hyderabad risks losing irreplaceable pieces of its history, highlighting the urgent need for coordinated conservation efforts.
News as reported
