A centuries-old water tank constructed for water storage by the Qutb Shahi rulers at Golconda Fort lies in a neglected state much to the chagrin of heritage lovers.
Katora Houz constructed in the 16th century lies en route to the Golconda Fort, that attracts tourists from across the world. Of late, the once magnificent water storage facility presents a sordid tale with water hyacinth fast spreading amid the trash that carpets the drain water.
“The authorities have never taken up the restoration job seriously. They just clear off the water hyacinth and disappear,” Shahabuddin, a local resident complains. Not long ago, the authorities planned to restore its beauty and convert it into another tourist spot by diverting the drain water, de-silting it and taking up necessary repairs before refilling it.
However, not much has been achieved in this aspect till now. “A coordinated effort by the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation, Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply & Sewerage Board and the Archaeological Survey of India is needed to fully restore it. Unfortunately, it is missing,” feels Anuradha Reddy, member of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (Intach).
Historical accounts document that the tank was constructed to meet the drinking water needs of the royals in times of war. Underground channels from Durgam Cheruvu in Jubilee Hills supplied water to the Katora Houz. “In 1687, the tank came in handy for the Qutb Shahi rulers when Aurangazeb laid siege to the fort,” reveals M.A. Qayyum, former deputy director, State Archaeological and Museums Department.
When contacted, N. Taher, superintending archaeologist, ASI Hyderabad circle said that restoration of the tank would be considered and necessary measures would be taken up soon.
