Experts Call for Old Jailkhana Restoration

Hyderabad: The collapse of a portion of the 200-year-old Old Jailkhana in Secunderabad on Wednesday has sparked alarm among historians and heritage enthusiasts who wanted the structure to be preserved as a historical landmark. Many freedom fighters were imprisoned in the jail, it was stated.

Prof. Saraswathi, a member of the Telangana History Congress, emphasised the importance of preserving neglected heritage sites. “If these structures are not preserved, future generations will be left with no monuments. The Old Jailkhana should be transformed into a historic site open to visitors, with relevant exhibits displayed here,” she stated.

Raj Tiwari, structural engineer, expressed concern over the stability of the remaining portion of the structure. “An immediate structural integrity survey is needed, especially since commercial activities continue nearby, putting people at risk. If the structure is compromised, there is a significant chance of further collapses,” he warned.

Tiwari stressed the importance of restoration, suggesting that retrofitting should be undertaken, similar to the work done on the Purani Haveli heritage building. He also noted that water seepage into the walls is damaging the structure and must be addressed.

Sammaya, deputy commissioner of Begumpet, GHMC, acknowledged the situation, stating, “This is a heritage structure, and we have contacted heritage experts. Based on their expert opinions, we will determine the next steps for further action.”