Hyderabad Lights Up Nayapul–Charminar Stretch with Rs 8.19 Cr Heritage Illumination Project
Hyderabad’s historic Old City is poised for a significant aesthetic and cultural rejuvenation with the commencement of a comprehensive heritage lighting project along the iconic Nayapul-Charminar stretch. This initiative, budgeted at an estimated Rs 8.19 crore, aims to dramatically enhance the architectural splendour of centuries-old landmarks, bestowing a dynamic, illuminated presence upon the cityscape after dusk. Beyond mere beautification, the project is designed to narrate the rich historical narratives embedded within these monuments, integrating traditional heritage with modern urban aesthetics to create a more vibrant and engaging public space.
The Quli Qutb Shah Urban Development Authority (QQSUDA), entrusted with the project’s implementation, has initiated the tendering process for specialised architectural lighting. This ambitious undertaking will encompass key historical sites and adjacent structures along the corridor, including the bustling Laad Bazaar, the four historic Char Kaman arches, and the majestic Charminar Kaman, Machli Kaman, Kali Kaman, and Sher-e-Batil ki Kaman. The careful selection of these sites underscores a commitment to preserving and highlighting the unique Islamic-era architectural heritage that defines this core area of Hyderabad.
A distinctive feature of this project will be the deployment of dynamic, colour-shifting lighting systems. These advanced illumination techniques are specifically engineered to accentuate the intricate details of Hyderabad’s Islamic-era monuments, bringing out their nuanced craftsmanship and historical grandeur. This innovative approach promises to transform the Old City’s nighttime ambiance, seamlessly blending its profound historical legacy with a contemporary urban glow. Officials anticipate that the lighting will not only captivate visitors but also serve as an educational tool, narrating the historical significance of these structures through the evocative language of light.
The financial allocation for this project reflects its scale and importance, with approximately Rs 5.8 crore of the total Rs 8.19 crore budget specifically earmarked for electrical and lighting fixtures. This substantial investment underscores the commitment to high-quality, sustainable lighting solutions. The project is being generously sponsored by the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program, highlighting a collaborative model where public-private partnerships contribute to urban development and heritage preservation. QQSUDA, in close coordination with the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), will meticulously oversee the planning and execution phases, ensuring adherence to the highest standards.
This heritage lighting initiative forms part of the second phase of the National Capital’s Swachh Iconic Places program, under which Charminar received a nomination for integrated development and facelift. While original timelines aimed for a January 2025 launch, minor delays in the tendering process have shifted the commencement. However, officials anticipate that work will begin swiftly once the contract is finalised, ensuring momentum is maintained. Upon completion, the revitalised lighting is expected to profoundly enhance the nighttime allure of Hyderabad’s Old City, creating a captivating synthesis of its historical past and modern urban vibrancy, thereby attracting more tourists and fostering a sense of civic pride in its rich heritage.
