Dedicated locality research platform
Dedicated locality research platform
Enter your email address and you will receive
a link to reset your password
The iconic Victoria Zenana Hospital, a significant landmark in Hyderabad and the city's first-ever all-women hospital, is on the brink of demolition to make room for a multi-level car parking facility for the Telangana high court. However, heritage conservationists maintain that the almost 120-year-old structure is structurally sound and could be repurposed.
The government had previously green-lighted the destruction of the heritage site in 2019. Last month, the High Court directed the registrar (management) and the roads and buildings department to initiate the demolition process during the court's summer recess in May. V Ramesh, the registrar (management), confirmed on April 15 that administrative approval was granted for the demolition of the H-Block, formerly the Victoria Zenana Hospital, to make way for the new parking facility.
The court directive cites writ petition number 735 of 2023 and states, "Given the government's sanction for the H-block's demolition, the registry must promptly commence the destruction of the old building and prepare the site for the construction of the parking block." The hospital, which was relocated to the Petlaburj Maternity Hospital, is currently used by the court. The new parking structure will address the significant parking challenges in the area and provide space for over 600 vehicles.
The government earlier removed the building from the heritage list, clearing the path for its demolition, a move vehemently contested by heritage conservationists. The adjacent Qutb Shahi-era fountain, known as the 'dog fountain', is also in danger of being razed. "The courtyards around the buildings have already been demolished, but the two remaining structures are structurally sound and suitable for adaptive reuse," says Anuradha Reddy of INTACH.
The Victoria Zenana Hospital is not just an exemplar of Indo-Saracenic architectural style, but it also represents a vital piece of the city's medical history. The hospital, whose foundation stone was laid by the Princess of Wales in 1905, has seen numerous eminent women doctors, including the world's first certified woman anaesthetist, Rupa Bai Furdooni, in the 1910s.
Structural engineers suggest that the building could be restored without incurring significant costs and could be repurposed as a museum or cultural centre. Albert George, a local civil engineer, attests to the stability of the building's structure, stating, "The architecture and the foundations remain strong. Despite years of neglect, the building is not beyond repair. The cracked walls and flaking paint can be easily restored."
In conclusion, the fate of the Victoria Zenana Hospital hangs in the balance. While the pressure for urban development is undeniable, the voices advocating for the preservation of our historical heritage are growing stronger. The final decision will not only determine the fate of the building but could also set a precedent for future decisions on heritage conservation in the city.
Propscience is India’s dedicated property news portal. We cover the latest events, news, trends, deals, new launches and more.
All our services and tools are completely free of cost and available 24X7!
