The Hindu : New Delhi News : Fatehpuri mosque in need of repairs

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Monday, Jan 31, 2011
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New Delhi

Fatehpuri mosque in need of repairs

Staff Reporter

NEW DELHI: The Fatehpuri Masjid, a 17 {+t} {+h} Century mosque in Chandni Chowk ordered built by one of Emperor Shah Jahan's wives Fatehpuri Begum, is in need of restoration.

For around 30 years, the Red Fort-facing mosque has been in dire need of a facelift. Union Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal, who represents the Chandni Chowk constituency in the Lok Sabha, had taken an interest in restoration of the mosque.

On Mr. Sibal's request, Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) had prepared a comprehensive conservation plan. The project could cost Rs.6.5- 7 crore, and the repair work could take up to two years from the time it begins. A senior official at INTACH's Delhi Chapter said: “It's a living mosque, so it may take longer time than any other heritage buildings. If all goes well, it may take 18 to 24 months.”

According to agency reports, Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) director general Gautam Sengupta has said that ASI supports “plans for restoration of the mosque”. The mosque is not listed as a protected monument under the ASI.

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