DC inspects renovation works at Khankah-e-Naqshband (RA), Aali Masjid Eidgah

Srinagar, July 17: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Akshay Labroo Thursday conducted an on-site inspection of the ongoing restoration and renovation works on the Khanqah-e-Naqshband Sahib (RA) at Khawaja Bazar and historic Aali Masjid at Eidgah being executed under the Preservation of Heritage Scheme of the Government to preserve the rich cultural and architectural heritage in the district.As per a statement issued here, at Khanqah-e-Naqshband Sahib (RA) at Khawaja Bazar, Nowhatta in Shahr-e-Khaas area of the district, DC took on spot review of the Rs 3.37 crore project for renovation, restoration and development of Khanqah on heritage pattern. On the occasion, DC said that the project is of significant heritage importance, aiming to preserve and restore historical architectural aesthetics of centuries old Khankah-e-Naqshband Sahib (RA), a spiritual and architectural landmark in the Shahr-e-Khaas area of Srinagar district.The DC was given a detailed appraisal of the works taken up as per approved DPR for restoration, revival, preservation and maintenance of heritage architecture of the 600 years old historic Khankahi Naqashband Sahib (RA). He was informed that the project includes structural conservation, retaining the original exterior appearance of wooden architecture & ornamentation, restoration of wooden elements on the exterior façade, installation of khatamband ceiling with papier mache work in the central hall. Similarly, DC visited the historical Aali Masjid in the Eidgah area and took on the site review of the Rs 3.28 crore project being executed for its preservation and conservation on heritage pattern. While taking stock of the ongoing works under the heritage conservation project, DC stressed that conservation efforts must retain original aesthetic and heritage.It was informed that the project includes works of water proofing solution to prevent the water seepage in the floor, waterproofing painting on the rooftop, khatamband on the outer open area of the Masjid with paper machie, aslar stone work on the outer side of the plinth and other works. He directed the concerned executing agency to accelerate the pace of work on the prestigious project with quality and strictly adhere to the set timelines. During the visit, DC was accompanied by Chief Planning Officer, Fayaz Ahmad Dar, Executive Engineers of R&B, SMC, PHE, PDD, Tehsildar, Khanyar, Tehsildar Eidgah, Officers of Archives and Archelogy and other concerned departments.