With the removal of all modern structures constructed during the British rule and modified in the Red Fort — a 17th century fort complex built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan at the banks of Yamuna — the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is set to restore its pristine glory. Over the years, several modifications were carried out by the British ruler; open spaces and gardens were converted into lawns. The alteration led to complete distortion of hydrology and water levels within the monument. The restoration work, which may take years, also aims at revival of all water channels and fountains.
On Monday, the agency revealed its preparation and a development plan along with the layout for restoration of historical gardens of the Red Fort in the presence of Culture Minister Chandresh Kumari Katoch at the opening of a two-day workshop on Conservation and Management of the Red Fort Complex. Noting that most of the gardens in the complex were completely or partially lost, Katoch said the monument deserves exemplary protection and conservation.
“I am encouraging ASI to develop a proposal to first examine and undertake research on the gardens and develop their plan and layout, keeping in mind the historic plantation pattern, flower beds, use of flora as evidenced in the paintings,” said Katoch. She added that there was still a need to revive the beautiful historic gardens within the fort, which were systematically removed and remodelled by the British, otherwise “it will not be able to regain its old charm.”
Several paintings from the 19th century give us a vital glimpse of gardens such as Mehtab Bagh and Hayat-Bakhsh Bagh, which were laid out and detailed by the Mughal rulers, the Minister said. The two-day workshop organised by ASI would witness the presence of noted archaeologists and conservationists, who would be participating and discussing ways of restoration.
“Even though the Yamuna, through which water was originally drawn, has shifted considerably, an alternate water source and its lifting should be worked out and all water channels, fountains be revived,” the Minister emphasised. Assuring all possible help from her Ministry, Katoch said experts should prepare a conservation proposal for the structures and gardens and ensure implementation in a timely, scientific manner.