Pathway to Baobab Tree Remains in Disrepair

The Baobab tree in Golconda Fort’s Naya Qila, a 400-year-old landmark, remains inaccessible due to a damaged pathway. Despite a year passing since the damage occurred, the necessary repairs are still pending. This is largely due to the delay in underground pipeline works by the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), which the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is waiting for before commencing their own repair efforts.

Current Status of the Pathway

The pathway to the Baobab tree, locally known as ‘Hathiyan ka Jhad’, was severely damaged during last year’s monsoons. Heavy rains and drainage overflow from the nearby Shah Hatim Lake caused parts of the route to cave in. The ASI has confirmed that they are ready to begin repairs as soon as the GHMC completes its pipeline work. Unfortunately, the delay in addressing the drainage system has led to a prolonged wait for restoration of the pathway.

The GHMC’s pending work involves laying drain pipes to divert water from the Shah Hatim Lake into an outlet channel. This channel would direct water away from the Naya Qila, preventing further damage to the fort’s infrastructure. An ASI official mentioned, “We are waiting for GHMC to finish their part. Only then can we begin strengthening the wall and repairing the pathway.”

Naya Qila’s Historical Significance

Naya Qila is an extension of the Golconda Fort, developed during the mid-17th century. This area was fortified after the Mughal attack on Hyderabad in 1656 under Emperor Shah Jahan. It boasts significant historical landmarks, including two large bastions named Laila and Majnu, the Mustafa Khan Masjid, and the Baobab tree, which is believed to have been planted by African friars over 400 years ago.

Unfortunately, some of these historical sites are not in good condition. For example, the Majnu Bastion collapsed during the monsoons in 2021 and remains unrepaired. Furthermore, local encroachments and the expansion of the Hyderabad Golf Course (HGC) into the Naya Qila area have made access to these heritage sites more difficult for the public. Despite the ASI’s confirmation that Naya Qila is fully accessible to visitors, security personnel from the HGC have sometimes restricted entry.

The Baobab Tree: A Timeless Heritage

The Baobab tree in Golconda Fort is one of the oldest living trees in Hyderabad, standing as a silent witness to the city’s vibrant history. Known locally as ‘Hathiyan ka Jhad’ due to its massive, elephant-like appearance, the tree is believed to have been planted by African friars who arrived in the region during the Qutb Shahi dynasty. The tree, with its thick trunk and unusual appearance, continues to attract visitors, despite the damaged pathway leading to it.

The Baobab tree is not the only attraction in Naya Qila. The area also houses the Mustafa Khan Masjid, built in 1561, which predates the founding of Hyderabad itself. Another notable site is the Mulla Khyali Masjid, named after the famous Deccan poet Mulla Khyali. These heritage landmarks reflect the rich history of the region, with Naya Qila playing a key role in Hyderabad’s defense during the Mughal invasions.

Golconda Fort’s Rich Legacy

Golconda Fort, of which Naya Qila is a part, is one of the Deccan’s most formidable fortresses. Originally a mud fort built by the Rajah of Warangal in the 14th century, it was later expanded by the Bahmani and Qutb Shahi dynasties. The fort became a symbol of power and resilience, resisting Mughal forces for over eight months until Emperor Aurangzeb finally captured it in 1687.

Today, Golconda Fort stands as a testament to Hyderabad’s glorious past. With 87 bastions and eight massive gates, it is one of the most impressive historical sites in the region. However, much of its heritage remains under threat due to natural and man-made factors, including neglect, local encroachments, and delays in preservation efforts.

Awaiting Restoration and Preservation Efforts

The current state of disrepair at Naya Qila highlights the need for timely action to preserve Hyderabad’s historical sites. While the ASI is responsible for maintaining Golconda Fort and Naya Qila, its efforts are often delayed due to administrative and infrastructural issues, as seen in the case of the damaged pathway to the Baobab tree. The GHMC’s pipeline work must be completed before ASI can begin their restoration efforts, but the wait has been long.

Hyderabad’s residents, historians, and heritage activists have also raised concerns about the state of Naya Qila and Golconda Fort. Last year, a petition was launched to save these historical sites from further neglect and encroachments. The pathway to the Baobab tree, as a symbolic part of this heritage, remains a focal point for these preservation efforts.

Conclusion

The Baobab tree Golconda Fort and its surrounding areas, including Naya Qila, represent Hyderabad’s rich and diverse history. However, ongoing delays in repair work threaten to diminish its significance and accessibility to the public. With coordinated efforts between the ASI and GHMC, it is hoped that the necessary repairs will soon be completed, ensuring that future generations can continue to appreciate and learn from Hyderabad’s unique heritage.

Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is based on available sources and may change as restoration and preservation efforts progress.

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