The recent collapse of two floors, including the grand dome, of Agra's historic Zohra Bagh tower, underscores the urgent need for conservation. Built in 1526 by Emperor Babur's daughter, Zuhara Mahal, this Mughal-era structure was awaiting preservation under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Conservation efforts, delayed due to restricted access through Chini Ka Rauza, were initially scheduled after ongoing restoration there. Rainwater seepage is suspected to have weakened the Lakhori brick and mud masonry, leading to the collapse. This incident highlights the importance of timely intervention to safeguard India's architectural heritage from irreversible damage.
Two floors of the historic three-storey Zohra Bagh tower, including its grand dome, collapsed in Agra earlier this week. This Mughal-era structure, believed to have been built by Emperor Babur's daughter, Zuhara Mahal, was awaiting conservation efforts, according to an official statement. The tower is a centrally protected monument under the jurisdiction of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
According to an article published in TOI, superintending archaeologist Rajkumar Patel, who inspected the site along with other officials, indicated that while conservation plans for Zohra Bagh had been developed, there was currently no direct access to the site. The garden can only be reached through the Chini Ka Rauza. He noted that conservation work at Zohra Bagh was scheduled to commence after the ongoing work at Chini Ka Rauza was completed.
Patel mentioned that rainwater seepage is suspected to have caused the damage to the monument, and ASI is committed to restoring the tower to its original condition. However, local guides expressed concerns, highlighting that the tower and dome had suddenly crumbled and that the first floor had sustained significant damage. A government-approved tourist guide pointed out that the ASI last conducted conservation work on the tower facing Chini Ka Rauza nearly a decade ago.
Another guide explained that the tower was constructed from Lakhori bricks and mud masonry, with the exterior walls decorated with red sandstone featuring designs of bouquets and pitchers. Unfortunately, these decorative elements have now been destroyed. He added that the tower's roof, which was 80 to 85 cm thick, had weakened over time.
Zohra Bagh, built in 1526, is a vast garden located north of Chini Ka Rauza and south of Jawahar Bridge. It served as a camp across the Yamuna River, where various construction works, including garden development, were carried out. This area was historically referred to as "Mini Kabul."
In conclusion, the recent collapse of Zohra Bagh highlights the urgent need for conservation and maintenance of historic structures. As local authorities plan restoration, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural heritage to prevent further deterioration of such significant monuments.
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