Hyderabad: City’s iconic Charminar, a 16th-century architectural marvel, suffered damage to its northeast minaret during heavy rains on Thursday. A small portion of the structure broke off, raising concerns about the preservation of this historic monument.
Fortunately, no casualties were reported as the area beneath the minaret was unoccupied at the time.
The downpour, accompanied by strong winds, disrupted daily life across Hyderabad and other parts of Telangana. Waterlogging, fallen trees, and traffic jams were reported in several areas.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) attributed the weather to an upper air cyclonic circulation and forecasted continued rainfall until Sunday. Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) officials promptly assessed the damage and assured that the minaret is not under immediate threat.
Repairs are expected to begin soon. Local MLA Mir Zulfiqar Ali emphasized the importance of safeguarding the Charminar, a symbol of Hyderabad’s rich heritage. Chief Minister Revanth Reddy directed civic authorities to implement relief measures and ensure public safety.
Teams from the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) were deployed to address waterlogging and other issues caused by the rains. The southwest minaret of Charminar, as historical data shows, suffered damage many times since 1591.
In 1681, entire minaret fell down and for the second time again in 1878. Chunks of mortar came off many times since then. Latest episode occured on May 1, 2019. It is, indeed, an example of Indo-Islamic architecture, incorporating Persian and Mughal design influences. Its symmetrical structure, four grand arches, and ornamental minarets showcase the finesse of late 16th-century architecture.
