Excavation Of Centuries-Old Well Near Shahi Jama Masjid In Sambhal Begins Amid Efforts To Revive Historical Sites

The Sambhal district administration commenced excavation work on Wednesday (22 January) near a centuries old well located 50 metres from the Mughal-era Shahi Jama Masjid in Chandausi town.

This initiative is part of a broader effort to restore historical wells and pilgrimage sites across the city.

“A total of 19 wells are mentioned in the history of Sambhal district, and we have so far managed to identify 17. Over decades, these wells were sealed off and encroached upon. The well adjacent to Jama Masjid was also encroached and a cemented platform was built over it. Nine more wells were found separately during the search, making a total of 28 wells found so far, including 19 Mahakoops and 87 pilgrimage sites. The sites have been freed from encroachment. This action is being taken after receiving a complaint letter from local residents," Sambhal District Magistrate Rajender Pensiya was quoted as saying by Times of India.

The excavation comes after local residents raised concerns over the condition of these historic wells, many of which had been neglected or altered over time.

Authorities are focused on preserving these structures and reviving their historical significance.

“Adequate security measures have been taken and an additional superintendent of police, along with a police force and personnel from provincial armed constabulary, was present during excavation. Law and order situation is stable," Sambhal Superintendent of Police Krishan Kumar Bishnoi said.

ASP Shreesh Chandra stated, “Legal action will follow after further investigation. According to local accounts and elderly residents, this well has existed for centuries. Further verification will be done as the excavation progresses.”

The Shahi Jama Masjid has been at the centre of recent tensions in Sambhal. In November, a court-ordered survey began to investigate claims that the mosque was built over a demolished Hindu temple.

Subsequent inspections led to clashes, resulting in five deaths.

The Supreme Court later directed that no action be taken regarding a private well near the mosque’s entrance without its permission.

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