Hyderabad: A small portion of the iconic Charminar’s minaret collapsed late Thursday following heavy rainfall that lashed Hyderabad, triggering widespread waterlogging, traffic congestion, and uprooting of trees in multiple areas. The incident has raised fresh concerns about the structural integrity of the 16th-century monument, one of Hyderabad’s most prominent landmarks.
Heavy Rain Wreaks Havoc in Hyderabad
The city witnessed torrential downpours throughout the day, causing significant disruptions. Several low-lying areas were submerged, with roads turning into rivers, making commuting a nightmare for residents. The intense rainfall led to severe waterlogging in key areas such as Abids, Nampally, Mehdipatnam, Charminar, and Banjara Hills, leading to long traffic jams and delays.
According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), Hyderabad recorded over 100 mm of rainfall within a few hours, overwhelming the city’s drainage systems. The sudden downpour also resulted in power outages in several localities, adding to the woes of citizens.
Pieces of mortar from the north-east minaret of the historic Charminar fell down during the heavy rains that lashed the city from Thursday afternoon. #Charminar #Hyderabad pic.twitter.com/D6goSUplfm
— The Siasat Daily (@TheSiasatDaily) April 3, 2025
Collapse at Charminar Raises Alarm
Eyewitnesses reported that a small portion of one of Charminar’s four minarets crumbled due to the heavy rain. Authorities arrived swiftly to assess the damage and ensure safety measures. Preliminary reports suggest that water seepage and prolonged exposure to extreme weather conditions may have weakened the structure.
Experts from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) are currently inspecting the damage. “We are conducting a detailed analysis to determine the extent of the damage and the necessary restoration efforts. The monument has withstood centuries of climatic changes, but such incidents highlight the urgent need for regular maintenance and conservation,” an ASI official stated.
Historical Significance of Charminar
Built in 1591 by Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah, Charminar is a symbol of Hyderabad’s rich history and culture. The monument attracts thousands of tourists daily, making its preservation crucial. Over the years, environmental factors, pollution, and urbanization have taken a toll on its structure, necessitating regular restoration efforts.
The latest damage has reignited discussions on the need for enhanced conservation strategies for heritage sites in Hyderabad. Conservationists emphasize the importance of routine inspections and protective measures to shield historical monuments from extreme weather conditions.
Impact on Traffic and Daily Life
Apart from the damage to Charminar, the heavy rain also disrupted daily life across the city. Several vehicles broke down in waterlogged streets, adding to traffic congestion. Emergency services were stretched as municipal workers scrambled to clear fallen trees and drain out excess water from critical junctions.
Residents took to social media to share visuals of flooded streets, submerged vehicles, and the chaos caused by the rain. Many expressed concerns over the city’s drainage infrastructure, which often fails to handle sudden, intense showers.
Government Response and Restoration Efforts
The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) deployed emergency response teams to manage the crisis. Officials assured the public that restoration work at Charminar would be conducted on priority. “We are working in coordination with ASI to assess the damage and take corrective steps. Additionally, measures are being implemented to improve drainage infrastructure to prevent future flooding,” a GHMC spokesperson said.
Authorities have urged citizens to avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall and follow weather updates. The IMD has predicted more rainfall in the coming days, advising people to remain cautious.
The collapse of a portion of Charminar’s minaret serves as a wake-up call for authorities to prioritize heritage conservation while also strengthening Hyderabad’s urban infrastructure. With monsoon rains expected to continue, proactive measures will be crucial in safeguarding both the city’s historical landmarks and the well-being of its residents.
