Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), in collaboration with the World Monuments Fund India (WMFI) and TCS Foundation, completed the restoration of Rajon ki Baoli, a 16th-century Lodi-era stepwell located in Mehrauli Archaeological Park, New Delhi.
Key Highlights
- Initiating Body: Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)
- Collaborating Partners:
- World Monuments Fund India (WMFI)
- TCS Foundation
- Project Framework:
- Part of WMFI’s Historic Water Systems of India initiative
- Aligned with World Monuments Fund’s Climate Heritage Initiative
Restoration Focus
| Feature | Description |
| Techniques Used | Traditional materials (lime plaster, mortar), guided by historical records |
| Methods Applied | Cleaning, desilting, structural repair, proper drainage, introduction of fish to maintain water quality |
| Community Engagement | Educational programs and participatory conservation to raise awareness and ensure long-term care |
Significance
- Environmental: Reviving traditional water systems as climate-resilient, sustainable water management solutions
- Cultural: Preserving Lodi-era Indo-Islamic architectural heritage
- Ecological: Reintegration of ancient water conservation systems into modern urban ecosystems
About Rajon ki Baoli
| Aspect | Details |
| Location | Mehrauli Archaeological Park, South Delhi |
| Built In | Around 1506, during the Lodi Dynasty |
| Name Meaning | “Baoli of the Masons” – named after masons who used it for drinking and cooking |
| Architecture | Indo-Islamic; features arched colonnades, stucco medallions, floral and geometric motifs |
| Design | 4-tiered stepwell, largely subterranean with only the top storey visible |
| Dimensions | Area: 1,610 sq. m, Depth: 13.4 m, Tank Base: 23 × 10 m |
| Use | Water reservoir and summer retreat offering natural cooling and rest for travellers |
About Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)
| Category | Description |
| Established | 1861 by Alexander Cunningham |
| Statutory Body Since | 1958 under Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act |
| Under Ministry | Ministry of Culture, Government of India |
| Primary Functions | Protection and maintenance of Centrally Protected Monuments (CPMs); archaeological surveys and excavations |
| Recent Conservation | Hoysala Temples (Karnataka), Santiniketan (West Bengal) – now UNESCO World Heritage Sites |
| Regulatory Acts | AMASR Act, 1958Antiquities and Art Treasure Act, 1972AMASR (Amendment) Act, 2010 | |
| Foreign Conservation Work | Bamiyan Buddhas (Afghanistan)Ta Prohm and Preah Vihear temples (Cambodia)My Son Group of Temples (Vietnam)Friday Mosque (Maldives)Uzbekistan sites: Fayaztepa and Karatepa (under discussion) |