SRINAGAR: Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir and President of the Anjuman Auqaf Jama Masjid, Moulvi Mohammad Umar Farooq, on Wednesday chaired a meeting of the Auqaf to review the ongoing restoration and conservation of the historic Jama Masjid, Srinagar, while expressing concern over drainage failures, recent waterlogging and alleged building violations around the heritage site.
The meeting assessed the progress of restoration work and stressed that conservation should be carried out carefully, efficiently and in a manner that preserves the mosque’s historic and architectural character.
The Auqaf also reviewed the impact of recent waterlogging in Srinagar, particularly in and around Jama Masjid and the Nowhatta area. Auqaf General Secretary Haji Ahmad informed the meeting that the surface drainage system surrounding the mosque had become largely non-functional, remained clogged at several locations and was not properly connected to the deep drainage network.
According to the Auqaf, rainwater from surrounding parts of Nowhatta flows into the mosque’s drainage system, leading to water accumulation around the historic structure during spells of heavy rain. Members cautioned that repeated waterlogging could adversely affect the centuries-old mosque if the issue is not addressed promptly.
The meeting was informed that the matter had already been taken up with the concerned departments through written representations seeking cleaning, restoration and proper integration of the drainage system.
Describing Jama Masjid as one of Kashmir’s most significant religious, historical and architectural landmarks, the meeting underscored the need for timely maintenance, scientific conservation and improved civic infrastructure to safeguard the monument.
The Auqaf also raised concerns over alleged unauthorised construction in the immediate vicinity of the mosque, stating that four to five multi-storey buildings and shopping complexes had been erected in violation of norms, affecting the traditional character and visual setting of the heritage site.
Members said the issue had already been brought to the notice of the authorities and urged that the alleged violations be examined on priority and dealt with strictly in accordance with the law. They also called for measures to prevent any further unauthorised construction around the mosque.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq directed the Auqaf to pursue both issues with the concerned departments in a coordinated manner to ensure restoration of the drainage system, protection of the mosque from recurring waterlogging and preservation of the historic character of its surroundings.
