Mehram Khan is what remains of a Mughal-era caravanserai; Defence Dept has objected to restoration work
The plan to restore heritage structures in Mehram Nagar, to be handled by the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) and the state Archaeological Department, may not see the light of the day. The work has been stopped after a Defence Estate Officer claimed that it was being done on Defence land. The work, started in October, 2016, was nearly 40 per cent complete.
Mehram Nagar was one of the 18 monuments to be restored under Phase III of INTACH's conservation plan. The Delhi government had assigned 155 such monuments to the body for their phase-wise restoration
The village is what has remained of a 17th Century Mughal-era 'Katra' (caravanserai). Katras and Sarais (inns) were common during Sher Shah Suri's reign as these spaces served as resting places for the military and its animals. The village is said to have been established by one Mehram Khan in 1639. It also has a mosque in the center, which is enclosed by a wall with two gateways, on the western and eastern ends.
"The Mehram Nagar village, along with the garden and enclosure walls on all sides, was in shambles. Part of it had been demolished as well," INTACH Convenor Swapna Liddle said.
"The structure, even in ruins, has high significance as it represents one of the rare historical complexes, which should be conserved. If properly worked on, the area can serve as a beautiful heritage tourist spot," she added.
One of the most important structures in the complex is the 'Old Darwaza', built by Shah Jahan and his son Aurangzeb in 1660. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has certified Mehram Nagar to be a place of importance as it has structures showcasing the civilization in India.
In May this year, after a major portion of the katra had been restored, including walls, gateway, Baradari, and a scientific excavation led to the discovery of a kitchen and a toilet, a letter from the office of Defence Estate Officer Alok Gupta led to the disruption in the work. "We had also discovered a water tank and were planning to restore it when we were asked to stop the work," an official said.
Despite repeated attempts, officials concerned at the Defence department could not be reached for comments.
INDIAN TOUCH
- One of the most important structures in the complex is the ‘Old Darwaza’, built by Shah Jahan and his son Aurangzeb in 1660.
- The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has certified Mehram Nagar to be a place of importance as it has structures showcasing the civilization in India.
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