Delhi's lesser-known monuments get facelift for Games

The upcoming Commonwealth Games has helped bring back to life a number of forgotten and unprotected monuments that had been heavily encroached over the years and were lying in a dilapidated condition . In an effort to revive these lesser-known heritage structures, Delhi government and Intach Delhi Chapter are jointly carrying out conservation , restoration and illumination work on the sites.

These buildings — which figure on the list of 92 monuments identified for notification by the state archaeology department — are high on priority as they are located near the Games venues such as the Siri Fort Sports Complex, R K Khanna Tennis Complex and National Stadium.

The monuments are getting a thorough facelift that includes comprehensive structural conservation, art restoration followed by landscaping , site development and illumination. ‘‘ This is an excellent way to showcase Delhi’s rich heritage. All sites will have information boards explaining the monument’s history and architectural significance,’’ said a state archaeology department official.

One such structure, Bijri Khan’s Tomb in R K Puram, is located at a short distance from the R K Khanna Tennis Complex and has been given a complete makeover by Intach. Another monument that has been restored is Darwesh Shah’s Masjid.

It could hardly be seen earlier as a result of heavy vegetation growth. Significantly , conservation work on Gol Gumbad near Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium brought to light intrinsic floral and geometric patterns in typical Islamic style.

Three monuments in Lodi Garden — a mosque, gateway and turret — are also being conserved. The ASI-protected monuments , officials say, are likely to be visited by the Games tourists as Lodi Garden is in close proximity to JN Stadium. A small tomb inside the stadium complex — Phutta Gumbad — has also been taken up for conservation. ‘‘ Illumination will be carried out in the end and testing — identifying spots to place the fixtures — has started at Bara Lao ka Gumbad in Vasant Vihar and Mutiny Memorial,’’ said an official.

Conservation work started in April. Multiple teams are involved and trying to finish all works by August 30. ‘‘ It has been a mammoth task. While some buildings like Gol Gumbad required plaster work others such as Darwesh Shah’s mosque had a damaged facade ,’’ said an Intach official.

Even for centrally-protected monuments in the capital, ASI officials said conservation work had never been carried out on such a scale. Tughlaqabad Fort — which receives few visitors and is one of ASI’s most ‘neglected’ buildings — is being given the biggest makeover.

The fort is located near the Karni Singh Shooting Range. And with portions of the Siri Fort wall being excavated , the site is also being touted as one of the hottest tourist destinations during the Games.