ASI clears Purana Qila shanties

A day after Hindustan Times pointed out how a dozen shanties had occupied prime place right next to the Purana Qila wall, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) swung into action and removed them. HT reports.

A day after Hindustan Times pointed out how a dozen shanties had occupied prime place right next to the Purana Qila wall, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) swung into action and removed them.

HT Image

Sixty-odd people, all workers engaged by a contractor working for ASI’s horticulture department, lived in these shanties and tapped electricity for free, consumed water from an old well in the premises and burnt branches/twigs from the surrounding greens to cook food.

However, more than misusing the place, the shanties — with bright orange, yellow and blue plastic covers —contrasted the lush green of the adjoining lake to give the protected monument a shabby look.

“We asked the contractor to make alternative arrangements for the labourers,” an ASI official said.