Conservation works on the Char Kaman begin

HYDERABAD: The much-awaited conservation works of the Char Kaman – Machli Kaman to the north, Charminar Kaman to the south, Kaman-e-Sehar-Batil to the west and the eastern Kali Kaman — have started. The GHMC allocated Rs 1 crore for the conservation, which is being undertaken by a Mumbai-based firm, specialised  in conservation works.

In the first phase, conservation works on the Machli Kaman are taken up. “The works started two days ago. Scaffolding has been erected to allow workers to move up and down. Next in line is Kali Kaman,” said Mr. K Srinivas Reddy, GHMC commissioner (south). The Machli Kaman drew its name from a big fish hung at its centre every new lunar year as a symbol of prosperity.

The state archaeology and museums department has informed the GHMC about the norms and procedures to be followed while undertaking the conservation works. According to historians, the Char Kaman is an example of symmetrical scale. The arches are separated from the centre.

The arches are 60 feet tall and 36 feet wide at the base and six feet in thickness. “During the construction it was ensured that an elephant could pass through it easily. It was part of the urban design scheme of the Qutb Shahi rulers,” said historian Mr M.A. Qayyum.