In a disheartening setback to conservation efforts, Nagpur's historic Nawab Kua was vandalized barely a day after the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) initiated its long-awaited restoration. The incident, involving revellers throwing waste into the freshly cleaned well, has forced civic authorities to implement immediate security measures.
Vandalism Mars Restoration Work
According to local residents, the positive momentum from the cleaning drive was quickly shattered. Soon after the decades-old sludge was removed and initial restoration work began, miscreants threw empty liquor bottles, garbage, and other waste into the historic well. This act of vandalism occurred around the New Year period, undermining the significant effort invested in reviving the heritage structure.
Immediate Civic Response and Security Measures
Reacting swiftly to the incident, the NMC took concrete steps to prevent further damage. A visit to the site confirmed that metal barricades have been erected around the well's perimeter, and it has been covered with a protective green net. Furthermore, the civic body has raised the height of the surrounding wall to physically restrict access. These are interim measures while restoration continues.
A senior official from the NMC's water department expressed frustration, stating that such actions obstruct public welfare projects. He emphasized that restoring heritage sites is a collective responsibility. The official also revealed that bleaching agents have been added to the water to initiate a self-purification process.
Plans for Permanent Protection
Looking ahead, the NMC is planning a more permanent solution to safeguard Nawab Kua. Civic sources indicate that the authority intends to install a permanent iron grille over the well. This structure will be designed to prevent unauthorized access to the water and stop people from throwing waste into it, ensuring the long-term protection of the monument.
Environmental activist Rohit Deshpande, who has been monitoring the restoration, acknowledged the visible progress. He noted that the work is proceeding at a good pace and the intent to protect the well is clear, despite the recent vandalism.
The incident highlights the ongoing challenge of preserving public heritage, where administrative action must be supported by public consciousness and respect for shared history.
