The first phase of chemical conservation treatment works of Kondapalli Fort was completed in stipulated time. The Department of Archaeology and Museums took up works two months ago at a cost of over Rs.7.5 lakh to lend an aesthetic look to the historical fort.
Using natural chemicals, a team comprising 30 workers led by Department Assistant Chemist K. Rambabu executed the works.
The ‘narthakasala’, ‘gajasala’, arches, pillars and front portion of the fort were covered under first phase of works. Senior officials, including Museums Director G.V. Ramakrishna Rao inspected the fort a few days ago and reviewed the works.
Workers first put up scaffoldings to cover every nook and corner of ‘narthakasala’, ‘gajasala’, arches, pillars and the entrance of the fort and removed shrubs that developed on the walls. “We used iron and brass brushes, removed shrubs and then commenced the works,” Mr. Rambabu explained.
He said workers managed to complete refurbishing works quickly even after facing water problem.
Senior officials said the market yard, weapons and other places would be covered under the second phase. “The chemical treatment process will start after sanctioning of Rs. 7.5 lakh,” the official said, adding that the citadel was built by Prolaya Vema Reddy in the 14th century. Authorities said efforts were on to prepare an action plan for ensuring basic amenities to visitors. Priority would also be given to improve security at the fort.
Mr. Rambabu’s team is likely to take up chemical conservation treatment works at ancient Sri Bheemeswara Swamy Temple in Vemulawada, Karimnagar district.
It gave facelift to main ‘rajagopurams’ of Sivalayam at Mahanandi in Kurnool district and Sri Seetha Ramachandra Swamy shrine in Bhadrachalam in Khammam district and Ramalayam at Dichpally in Nizamabad district. “We also took part in chemical conservation treatment works at Mecca Masjid in Hyderabad,” he said.
