Telangana: Museum in state of neglect

Warangal: Way back in 1987, the archaelogy department preserved many remanants from the history of this heritage city at a museum behind the corporation office here.

The museum contains a rare collection of idols, paintings, coins, weapons, sculptures, inscriptions from the Chalukyan and Kakatiyan times and a wide range of artefacts.

The library in the museum has about 3,000 books with information on the history of the rulers of Warangal among others. Some of the newer books have not been updated since they were placed there.

Three decades on, few locals know of the centre — not to mention tourists — due to its poor promotion.  It is alleged that if history enthusiasts ask about the place, the employees are uncooperative and deny access.

“There are several books on the history of different dynasties, about the architecture of several constructions across the world. Most of them are rare. Due to lack of maintenance, the books have become old and many are damaged,” said history enthusiast, Aravind Pakide.

He said the information in some of the books at the museum had become dated. “If a proper library is maintained, it would be of great help to history enthusiasts and tourists,” he said.

The archaeology department in Warangal does even have a permanent assistant director; an official from Hyderabad was given additional charge. The foundation stone for a new museum building was laid by tourism minster A. Chandulal in January 2015 near the fort. Work at the site hsa since stopped.

Incharge assistant director of Warangal region G. Ganga Devi said efforts were on to resume the work soon. He hoped the new building would be ready in six months.