Hyderabad: The 125-year-old historic Mahboob Chowk Clock Tower standing tall in the commercial stretch of Laad Bazaar and Moosa Bowli presents a picture of utter neglect.
Constructed by Asman Jah Bahadupur, a Paigah noble who was the prime minister of Hyderabad then (1887-94), the five-storied structure is an example of Indo-European synthesis of architectural design. The tower was constructed in middle of a big garden. It was named after Mir Mahboob Ali Khan, sixth Nizam.
According to historians, the structure was constructed keeping public concerns in mind. The huge clocks were a gift to the people at a time when wrist watches and wall clocks were not common.
"The clocks were imported from London. The floor where the clocks are installed does not have any decoration or designs to retain public attention," Mr M.A. Qayyum, a historian, told this newspaper.
The clock tower has metal balconies on two floors which reflect the Qutb Shahi style of architecture. The base of the tower is decorated with granites and plastered with mortar and lime.
“At present, there is a layer of moss that has formed on the wall while the panes of the doors are broken down. The place has become a den for anti-social activities,” complains Mr Syed Qutubuddin, a local shopkeeper.
The entry to the place is through a small two-feet wide gate which is now hidden behind kiosks that have come up over a period of time. Till the 70s, locals say, there were fountains in the garden but they have vanished gradually. “Hardly any tourist enters the area with alcohol addicts and vagabonds sitting there consuming liquor or drugs,” said Mr Aejaz Khan, a book store owner.
When contacted Superintendent Engineer, (Projects) GHMC R. Sreedhar said that they have prepared estimates for restoration and repair of the clocks. “We will obtain permission from Archeology Department and take up the works,”he said.
