Part of the historic Golconda fort in Hyderabad crumbles due to heavy rains
Part of the historic Golconda fort in Hyderabad crumbles due to heavy rains

Part of the historic Golconda fort in Hyderabad crumbles due to heavy rains

ASI officials say that the portion of Moti Darwaza that collapsed was an extension to the fort’s wall which was constructed with poor material.

A portion of one of the gateways of the 400-year-old Golconda fort in Hyderabad, Moti Darwaza, which had remained neglected for several years, collapsed on Thursday evening, owing to incessant rainfall in the city. A cow which was housed inside the structure also died. 

According to the Archaeological Survey of India, Moti Darwaza was an extension to the main wall, which was poorly constructed. At this gateway, the guards during the Quli Qutub Shah reign would screen the visitors, ASI said. The gateway measured 11.3 x 5.6 meters.

Speaking about its construction, ASI Superintending Archaeologist Milan Kumar Chauley said, “Not much lime was used in its construction. It was constructed mostly using mud. The structure had three arches and was open from all sides.” 

He added, “Moti Darwaza was an addition made later to the wall, though we cannot determine the exact date.”

Due to the heavy rains, two sides of the structure collapsed and the authorities are now razing down the other side too. 

“It is posing a danger to the motorists so we are razing it down,” authorities said.

Uncertain about when the restoration would happen, Chauley said, “We will have to make an estimate of more than Rs 2 lakh and it has to go to Delhi. After the inspection by the team from there, they will give approval.”

ASI said that the gateway remained locked, but the locals broke the lock. “They dumped garbage and also started using it as a cow shelter. A cow which was housed inside died when the structure crumbled down.”

Meanwhile, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has offered help in the restoration.

The historical Golconda fort was constructed by the Kakatiya dynasty in the 13th century, which was later taken over by Qutub Shahi dynasty. By 17th century Golconda emerged as a famous diamond market, and much of its glory is attributed to Mohammad Quli Qutub Shah.

The world-famous ‘Kohinoor’ diamond is from Golconda. 

 

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