Macca Masjid repairs a mountain too tall to climb

Renovation of the 16th Century Macca Masjid is not likely to begin any time soon, with the Department of Archaeology and Monuments (DAM) unable to get “good” contractors to do the work.

DAM had called for tenders twice but failed to get a response from wellqualified firms. “Now for the third time we are going to invite tenders and hope to finalise it soon,” said DAM deputy director, B. Narayana.

The project cost is pegged at `8.48 crore, but the Minorities Welfare Department has released only `1 crore in May to the DAM.

“We have asked for another `2 crore as the sum is inadequate to start the work. The Minorities Welfare Department has asked the TS Wakf Board to release the funds,” he said.

Renovation and repair of the main structure is the priority. “The roof is leaking and we have to dig it up and refill with correct composition of material used during its construction four centuries ago,” Mr Narayana said.

Logistics and scale of the renovation project are daunting.

Heavy cranes will have to be used to instal lifts and trolleys to transport material to the terrace of the mosque. The height of the mosque is about 75 feet.

Material will have to be brought constantly for the work, which will take at least two years to complete. DAM officials are planning to open a temporary gate on the Panch Mohalla side to bring materials and equipment. But there are chances of protest from the trader community, said superintendent of Macca Masjid, Mohammed Abdul Qadeer Siddiqui. There are also apprehensions that the flow of funds will not be maintained. “If the funds are stopped midway, it would mean escalation of the costs,” said another official.