Soon: ‘Europe-like’ driveway in Old City
LUCKNOW: The heritage zone of Lucknow would soon boast of one of the most beautiful driveways of the country as a cobblestone paved stretch is set to connect the Chhota Imambada, Bada Imambada and Teelewali Masjid in Old City.
Cobblestones are small rocks, generally found in the bed of streams and were frequently used in pavements and streets in European cities in olden times.
However, another connecting road being constructed for movement of heavy vehicles alongside Teelewali Masjid to protect the Rumi Gate from any further damage (after the recommendations of ASI) would be made of concrete base.
This road is being laid by the irrigation department while the heritage zone driveway is constructed by the PWD.
The concrete road is also very important as it would save the heritage zone from the influx of heavy vehicles, especially in front of Bad a Imambada and Rumi Gate.
Ranjeet Yadav, executive engineer, PWD and in-charge of heritage zone project, said: “Cobblestones have been used as driveway material for centuries, and many of those driveways have remained in service for as long as 100 years in various cities of Europe.”
Yadav added, “This heritage zone would be one of the best in the country. When the work is completed, I guarantee that this place would be in the top five tourist destinations of India because of its beautiful looks and unique driveway.” Though expensive, these stones require negligible maintenance. But the only disadvantage is that the stones have a bit of space in between and vehicles can’t be driven fast on these pathways, said Yadav.