Hyderabad: Historic Gulzar Houz Turns into Plastic Dump After ₹30 Lakh Restoration
Two years after a grand restoration, Hyderabad’s 400-year-old Gulzar Houz fountain is back in a state of neglect, now filled with plastic bottles and bags.
The fountain, located near Charminar and surrounded by the four famous arches — Machli Kaman, Sher-e-Batil Kaman, Kali Kaman, and Charminar Kaman — was rebuilt in October 2023 by the Quli Qutb Shah Urban Development Authority (QQSUDA) at a cost of nearly ₹30 lakh. The work was carried out by Deccan Terrain Heritage, known for its expertise in heritage conservation.
For a few months after reopening, the octagonal fountain, with its 200 spouts and white-and-blue patterned tiles, attracted visitors and selfie-takers. Olive green metal barriers and LED lighting added to its charm. But the maintenance did not last long.
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“Plastic waste is now dumped in the water. The place doesn’t look like a tourist spot anymore,” said Sirajuddin, a local shopkeeper. Another trader, Sumit Agarwal, added, “The fountain is rarely lit at night now, and people have stopped taking photos here.”
The fountain was originally built by Mir Momin Astarabadi, Prime Minister under Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah, and was once called Char-su-ka-Houz. Over time, the name evolved to Suk-Houz and finally Gulzar Houz.
What was meant to be a symbol of the city’s heritage has once again fallen victim to poor upkeep.
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