LU violates ban on construction near historical Lal Baradari | Lucknow News
Lucknow: Lucknow University violated its own ban on any construction or activity within or near the historical 18th-century Lal Baradari. This ban was imposed by the university in view of the dilapidated condition of the over 200-year-old structure.The building displays a notice from the registrar, specifically warning that the historical building is in a dilapidated state and that no construction or any other activity should be undertaken. The construction of several walls in front of the historical structure received criticism from senior professors on campus. They argue that such construction work in close proximity can further damage the historical structure and potentially lead to its collapse, posing a threat to students, teachers, and staff on campus. A wall of Lucknow University’s Lal Baradari collapsed in May 2021 due to long-standing neglect and deterioration. Furthermore, teachers criticised the unnecessary construction at a site considered a prominent part of the University’s legacy. Machali Dwar, Kabootar Kothi, Canning College, and Lal Baradari together are proof of LU’s rich heritage. When contacted, the superintendent of works, Shyamlesh Tiwari stated that it is just a temporary structure made of brick and mortar, intended to store construction materials and will be dismantled shortly. “It’s strange that in a campus sprawling over acres, University authorities could only find space at such a historical part of the campus. Approval was also given by the Vice-Chancellor without much thought,” said a retired professor from the department of ancient Indian history and archaeology at LU. He added that it’s ironic that the university is now claiming they will dismantle it in three months, which will create vibrations near the structure and could damage it further, as it was built just a few steps away. TOI attempted to contact the officiating vice chancellor, Prof Manuka Khanna, but her phone went unanswered. “When efforts are being made to restore historical monuments and transform them for tourism, it’s strange that LU is blocking the view of the beautiful Baradari by constructing another structure so close to it,” said former president of the Lucknow University Affiliated College Teachers Association, Prof Maulindo Misra. He noted that Lal Baradari once housed the teachers’ association office, a bank, a cafeteria, and a staff club—all of which were evacuated around a decade ago due to the building’s fragile condition. It carries a legacy and memories, which is why when LU completed 100 years, several attempts were made for the revival and restoration of Baradari. Unfortunately, due to the absence of govt grants, it could not be done. History behind Lal Baradari Lucknow chronicler, late Yogesh Praveen, told TOI during Lucknow University’s 100 years celebration in 2020 that Lal Baradari was the only red stone building from the Nawabi era. It was known as Badshah Bagh in the 18th century. The foundation of the building was laid by Nawab Ghaziuddin Haider Shah in 1814, and it was completed by his son Naseeruddin Haider Shah in 1820.
