Hyderabad’s historic Qutb Shahi and Asaf Jahi period arches slated for restoration

Diwan Deodhi Kamaan which will be repaired as per the new plan. | Photo credit: Serish Nanisetti

The arches belonging to two distinct periods in Hyderabad’s history, the Qutb Shahi and Asaf Jahi periods, will soon be restored to their former resplendent glory, with the Telangana government clearing the decks for renovation work on eight such important kamaans.

The arches include Hussaini Alam Kamaan, Diwan Deodhi Kamaan I and II, Dabeerpura Kamaan, Hashmat Jung Kamaan, Chatta Bazaar Kamaan, Shaik Faiz Kamaan and Ranigunj Kamaan.

According to a government order issued on Thursday, the restoration and renovation work is expected to cost ₹11.86 crore.

The move comes after the Quli Qutb Shah Urban Development Authority (QQSUDA) expressed concern that the ₹2 crore sanctioned earlier for minor repairs would not be enough to make the arches structurally sound and safe.

According to the GO, the expenditure will be met from the funds available to the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority. Furthermore, QQSUDA was granted permission to submit requests for proposals for the selection of consultancy services and the preparation of detailed project reports, detailed estimates and the provision of related consultancy services.

The government has made it clear that QQSUDA should consult conservation experts during the restoration work. The works should be carried out in accordance with heritage conservation guidelines after obtaining the necessary statutory permissions.

It was early last month that part of the arch at Chatta Bazaar, which is part of the Diwan Deodhi complex, collapsed due to rains. No loss of life was reported. The complex once belonged to the Salar Jung family, which was instrumental in bringing about a major change in the administration of Hyderabad during the Asaf Jahi period.

Hashmat Jung Kamaan was named after James Kirkpatrick, British Resident in Hyderabad from 1797 to 1805, who was given the title of Hashmat Jung. He married Khairunnisa, a member of the former nobility.

Published – 02 Jul 2026 20:47 IST