Three months after it fell, the chunk of lime stucco work on Charminar is in for repair. A 45-foot high scaffolding will be erected shortly to reach the third floor balcony of the south eastern minaret from where the decorative piece dropped.
After weeks of dillydallying, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has decided to set up a scaffolding from the ground towards the temple side. The platform will be one metre wide. The idea of having a scaffolding on the first floor has been dropped from the security point of view. Though cost-effective, it is considered risky for the persons doing the repair job.
The ornamental stucco work measuring 2 feet in length fell on August 29 following heavy rain. But for the last three months, the ASI couldn't take up the repair work due to the prolonged rainy season. Any additional load during this time would have caused further damage. The festive season and some administrative issues delayed the restoration work further.
The JNTU, which is asked to examine the structural stability of the monument and vibration impact, is yet to submit its report. But without waiting for it, the ASI has decided to go ahead with the repair job. Erection of scaffolding will take more time and cost than the actual repair work, it is said.
Skilled workers from Tamil Nadu will be engaged to restore the damaged petals and decoration on the piece of stucco work. Lime and mortar, the original material used in the construction of Charminar, will be used. “The granite block behind the fallen chunk is intact and there is no danger to it,” says T. Sreelakshmi, deputy superintending archaeologist, ASI.
During 2001 also, blocks of decorative work had fallen on the terrace of Charminar and the south western corner. They were repaired using lime mortar.
Vibrations
Though the 410-year-old monument is safe, vibrations caused by constant movement of vehicles is taking a toll. The vibrations are causing cracks in the structure and during rainy season, they get soaked and fall. Total and immediate pedestrianisation of the area around Charminar is the only solution, ASI authorities say.
Author: J.S. Ifthekhar | Source: The Hindu [December 05, 2010]
