Old havelis in Walled Jaipur to get a soothing balm and a caring hand

The crumbling havelis in city would get some balm and a caring hand. Newly constituted Rajasthan Heritage Development and Management Authority  is considering a proposal to restore and conserve havelis in the Old City, many of which have been declared as “unsafe” for accommodation by the municipal corporation.

This would be the first time when a government body would take up heritage buildings even those under private ownership for conservation on a mass scale. The Authority is working with heritage experts to identify such havelis in the city. Salauddin Ahmad, chairman of the Authority, told dna this would be a significant step towards conservation and protection of heritage lying neglected in Jaipur.

“The havelis, which are in private hands and are unsafe will also be conserved by us,” he said adding, “You must see the repair works, which have been carried out at Kotwali Natani ji ki to understand the nature and scale of restoration we are looking at.”

After considering the size of the havelis and the number of such havelis, which need restoration, the Authority would begin on its maiden venture.

Ahmad also said a policy on heritage conservation is being worked out for conservation of such structures in state. “The policy is in embryonic stage. This restoration plan seams in with the policy outline,” added Ahmad.

He also allayed fears over chaupars being bulldozed to pave way for construction of underground Metro station “We have old photos, which will help in restoration,” he said. We have thorough expertise which will protect our heritage,” said Ahmad.