ASI to restore Barapulla Bridge in three months

Tribune News Service

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New Delhi, August 11

Lieutenant-Governor (L-G) VK Saxena spearheaded the restoration of the 400-year-old Barapulla Bridge in Nizamuddin, with the project set to be completed within three months. This marks Saxena’s second visit to the site in a week, following his initial visit on August 4.

The historic bridge, constructed by Minar Banu Agha under Emperor Jehangir in 1628, had fallen into disrepair and was heavily encroached upon. Saxena’s earlier visit led to the removal of encroachments and the clearing of debris from the bridge. The restoration task was formally handed over to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) on Sunday.

Saxena, accompanied by Delhi’s Chief Secretary and the Director General of ASI, emphasised the need to restore the bridge while preserving its historical integrity. “The Barapulla Bridge will soon regain its lost glory. I am pleased to announce that ASI will complete the restoration within three months,” Saxena said.

He commended the collaborative efforts of various agencies, including the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), Public Works Department (PWD), Irrigation and Flood Control Department (I&FC), Railways, and Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). “The encroachment has been removed, and desilting of the drains is underway. The ASI will begin restoration work immediately after this process is complete,” Saxena added.

The bridge, renowned for its 12 piers and 11 arches, was a significant structure in the Mughal-era Delhi. It served as a vital crossing for the Mughals traveling from Agra to Nizamuddin Dargah and Humayun’s Tomb. The restoration is expected to reveal this marvel of engineering, which has been obscured by modern encroachments.

The L-G secretariat also highlighted his commitment towards preserving Delhi’s heritage. “Delhi’s historic sites, including the Barapulla Bridge, St James’s Church, and Mehrauli Archaeological Park, are being restored under L-G’s guidance. These monuments attract significant visitor interest and represent our rich historical legacy,” the secretariat stated in a statement.