Tunnel Reportedly Discovered During Alleged Illegal Excavation Near 400-Year-Old Qutb Shahi Tombs in Golconda
A tunnel has reportedly been discovered during alleged unauthorised excavation near the nearly 400-year-old Qutb Shahi Tombs and an adjoining playground in Hyderabad’s historic Golconda area, drawing the attention of heritage authorities.
Hyderabad: A tunnel has reportedly been discovered during alleged unauthorised excavation near the nearly 400-year-old Qutb Shahi Tombs and an adjoining playground in Hyderabad’s historic Golconda area, drawing the attention of heritage authorities.
The incident was reported from the 18 Steps area of Golconda, where the historic Qutb Shahi Tombs are located. According to preliminary information, excavation was allegedly being carried out at the site, during which an underground passage or tunnel-like structure was noticed.
The discovery has generated considerable interest because of a long-standing local belief that a secret underground passage once connected Golconda Fort with Charminar. According to the popular account, members of the Qutb Shahi royal family used the route to travel between the fort and the city.
However, there is no conclusive evidence so far establishing the existence of such a passage. Therefore, the newly discovered structure in the 18 Steps area cannot, at this stage, be identified as the legendary tunnel between Golconda Fort and Charminar.
Following the reports, Karwan MLA Kausar Mohiuddin, acting on the directions of AIMIM president Barrister Asaduddin Owaisi, reportedly contacted officials of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and brought the alleged excavation and discovery to their attention.
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The ASI has taken note of the matter and is expected to inspect the site to determine the nature and historical significance of the structure.
During the inspection, officials are likely to examine the extent of the excavation, the length and direction of the tunnel and, importantly, its approximate age. Experts will also assess whether the structure could be part of an ancient construction dating back to the Qutb Shahi period or whether it is a more recent structure exposed during the excavation.
The matter has also reportedly been brought to the attention of the Hyderabad Collector, Hyderabad Police Commissioner and the DCP of the South-West Zone.
Authorities have decided to deploy police personnel at the site to prevent any further unauthorised activity until the inspection and assessment are completed.
The discovery has once again brought Hyderabad’s long-standing stories about underground passages and the city’s Qutb Shahi heritage into focus. The findings of the ASI inspection are expected to provide greater clarity on the origin, age and historical importance of the tunnel.
