28-04-2025
Archaeological Survey of India to Restore Damaged Mihrab Structure at Safa Masjid in Ponda
Panaji:
After months of delay and neglect, the
Archaeological Survey of India
(ASI) will begin repairs on the damaged
mihrab structure
surrounding the centuries-old water tank at
Safa Masjid
in Ponda. Built in 1560 by Ibrahim Ali Adil Shah, the masjid features an ornate tank lined with niche-like arches, once used as hammams. The rain submerged parts of the tank, creating ideal conditions for crabs to burrow into the structure, causing visible cavities.
'We noticed the leakages at Safa Masjid. We have also noticed the dismantling of the stones on some of its arches. We are planning to restore the same,' Abhijit Ambekar, superintending archaeologist holding additional charge in Goa, told
TOI
.
TOI
reported on Oct 14, 2024, that the ornate niche structure enveloping the tank — called the mihrab — developed cavities, drilled in by the crabs in the tank. At the time, ASI officials stressed that there was no immediate threat to the tank's stability. However, the ASI-appointed caretakers at the site voiced their concerns about the impact of vibrations caused by rumblers installed on the nearby national highway on the aquatic life of the tank. They said it was prompting crabs to dig into the structure for shelter during the day. The centuries-old tank has been a habitat for fish, turtles, and crabs.
by Taboola
by Taboola
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Undo
'At the time, the priority of the ASI was to complete the preparations for the Exposition of the relics of St Francis Xavier, which was held at Old Goa from Nov 21, 2024, to Jan 5, 2025. Due to this, the upkeep of other monuments could not be prioritised. Funding was also awaited to take up work at other ASI buildings in Goa,' sources said.
At the recently observed World Heritage Day on April 18, Ambekar announced a series of works that will be taken up by the ASI Goa circle this financial year.
