MECCA MASJID RENOVATION REMAINS IN LIMBO
Frequent changes being made in restoration plans of the centuries-old Macca Masjid, apart from financial impediments, are slowing down renovation of this nationally protected heritage site just across the historic Charminar.
When started, the works of the masjid were slated to be completed in 18 months. But three years have passed and there are absolutely no hopes of Macca Masjid being fully restored before commencement of forthcoming Ramzan.
Construction of this masjid was started by Sultan Mohammed, the sixth ruler of the Qutb Shahi Dynasty. It was completed only by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. The monument has remained unattended for years. Its wall and roofs have developed cracks through which water seeps during rains, damaging the masjid further.
Chief Minister K. Chandrashehar Rao had sanctioned a special budget of `8.48 crore for restoration and renovation of Macca masjid on a proposal made by then special secretary (minorities welfare) Umar Jaleel. Works to refurbish the masjid started in 2017. As it is a historic structure under Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the state government decided to route the money through the ASI.
After initial funds were released by the state government, restoration and beautification works have been carried out at Maqbara Salateen, Shahi Madarsa-e-Huffaz, Pahera (guard room) and main gate of the Macca masjid.
However, while there are 16 domes in the main prayer hall, only six have been repaired.
According to officials, the restoration contract was given to Mumbai-based firm Laxmi Haricon. But after ASI and the minorities welfare department orally suggested modifications in the restoration works, the costs got escalated. When the company submitted bills, authorities refused to pay the additional amount. Following this, Srinivas Sulge, managing director of the company, withdrew from the contract in March 2020.
Later, the task was allotted to another Mumbai-based contractor, Nilesh Thaker. He started the remaining works, including on domes of the main prayer hall. But, with Covid-19 intensifying, labourers left for the native places.
One of the main reasons for delay in completing the work is state government so far releasing only 50 per cent of the allotted money, apart from lack of a nodal officer in ASI for supervising the ongoing works. Supervision is by an officiating deputy director, who has no power to sanction bills.
ASI has also been accused of deputing inexperienced youth on outsourcing basis for supervising ongoing works. But these persons are not even acquainted with methods of preserving ancient structures and materials to be used for carrying out repairs.