Though standing at the entrance of the ticketed portion of the Qutb Shahi Heritage Park and not within the area demarcated for Phase I of Conservation works, conservation works on the Tomb of Fatima Sultana were undertaken subsequent to significant collapse of its plinth during 2013. Repair works to the plinth, in which the original band at the bottom of the plinth which was discovered during the repair works was duly completed on all sides, were extended to a comprehensive conservation effort on the structure, much of which were completed during 2014. The conservation works included removal of all cement plaster and restoring lime plaster to the dome and wall surfaces.
Repair works to the plinth, in which the original band at the bottom of the plinth which was discovered during the repair works was duly completed on all sides, were extended to a comprehensive conservation effort on the structure, much of which were completed during 2014. The conservation works included removal of all cement plaster and restoring lime plaster to the dome and wall surfaces.
OUTCOME:
- In view of the structural failure and collapse of the plinth while its cement flooring remained, indicated the significant risk to structures within the Qutb Shahi Heritage Park from water ingress. It was thus agreed, in 2015, that the inappropriate cement layers be replaced with granite stone slabs that though would ensure stability by quick disposal of rain water and preventing water ingress.
- Earth around the plinth wall was cleared up to a meter width with adequate slope ensuring proper discharge of ground water without affecting the monument.
IMPACT:
The Tomb of Fatima Sultana following its complete restoration is accessible for the public. Timely conservation works carried out following the structural collapse of the plinth have ensured long term preservation
After conservation December 2015 (left), Laying of granite floor on the plinth (top right), Grading of earth (bottom right) © Aga Khan Trust for Culture