Peeling walls, broken bricks: Lodhi structure awaits repair

A portion of a complex abutting Bada Gumbad mosque within the Lodhi Gardens has sustained damage during the rains this year, prompting conservationists to urge authorities to undertake urgent repairs and pointing out that several parts of the 15th century monument have eroded over time.

- Sadia Akhtar

 

During a spot visit, HT found that a chunk of the wall of the complex — located to the east of Bada Gumbad and which once served as apartments — had fallen off.

Officials from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) could not confirm when the damage took place, but assured that the affected portion will be repaired.

Praveen Singh, superintending archaeologist of ASI’s Delhi circle, said “a small portion” of the monument was damaged and that it would be repaired.

He added that ASI had a number of monuments under its jurisdiction and that conservation work was routinely undertaken after assessing the extent of deterioration. “A small portion has been affected and we will get it fixed,” said Singh.

One of Delhi’s most popular parks, the Lodhi Gardens is one of the Capital’s most frequented weekend destinations. The park, sandwiched between Khan Market and Lodhi Road, is home to monuments from different eras including the Lodhi and Mughal period. At least five monuments within the gardens, including Bada Gumbad and its neighbouring quarters, fall under the purview of the ASI, while the Delhi government’s state department of archaeology looks after three smaller monuments.