Bibi ka Maqbara languishes in neglect, outcry grows for urgent upkeep and restoration of heritage site and tourist hub

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: A damaged screen wall, large patches of worn-out plasterwork on minarets, and blackened structures welcome tourists at the Bibi ka Maqbara, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the region.
Also known as the ‘Taj of the Deccan', the iconic Mughal-era structure's sorry state has been evoking angry reactions, with history lovers exhorting the need for urgent conservation measures.
TOI's spot visit to the historic monument on Tuesday revealed that the left screen wall — made up of brick, lime, and mortar with intricate designs carved into it — is on the verge of collapse. Situated alongside the fountain exactly in front of the Bibi ka Maqbara, the damaged wall presents a terrible impression to tourists about the upkeep of the heritage site. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has provided scaffolding arrangements to prevent the portion of the wall from collapsing completely.
Architect Ajay Kulkarni, a past convener of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (Intach), said it is highly unfortunate that one of the most magnificent monuments in the country is experiencing official neglect. "While the site was already suffering from worn-out plasterwork and blackening, the near collapse of the screen wall is a reason for concern. The monument needs urgent official attention, failing which it will suffer irreconcilable damage," he said.
Among other neglected areas, the spacious garden around the Bibi ka Maqbara has been reduced to barren land. Once a cynosure, the garden has turned into an eyesore for tourists. The Bibi ka Maqbara was erected as a grave for Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb's wife, Dilrus Bano, also known as Rabia Durrani. It has long witnessed a huge footfall of tourists, including foreigners, throughout the year.
When contacted, Shiv Kumar Bhagat, superintending archaeologist for ASI, Aurangabad circle, said proposals seeking conservation works here were already sent to higher authorities in the last financial year. He only said, "The monument has become old. The ASI is taking steps for its upkeep and conservation."
The social group Minority Front of India refused to accept the explanation. "The ASI authorities are very casual in their approach and need summary transfers. We will protest if competent ASI officials are not appointed by Centre," Front national president Feroz Khan said.