Jaipur’s UNESCO Heritage Status Under Scrutiny as High Court Orders Survey of Unauthorised Construction

JAIPUR: The heritage status of Jaipur’s historic Walled City has come under judicial scrutiny after the Rajasthan High Court took suo motu cognisance of concerns over the condition of the heritage area.

The court has directed the Jaipur Development Authority (JDA) and Jaipur Municipal Corporation to take immediate steps concerning unauthorised constructions affecting the Walled City.

A bench headed by Justice Pramil Kumar Mathur has ordered a comprehensive survey to identify unauthorised constructions in the heritage area. The authorities have been directed to submit a report on the findings within two weeks.

The court has also sought detailed affidavits from senior government officials, including the Chief Secretary and the Principal Secretary for Urban Development. The affidavits are expected to explain the existing regulatory framework for protecting Jaipur’s heritage and how those regulations are being implemented.

The court has further sought a status report and a phased action plan aimed at preventing further deterioration and supporting restoration of the historic Walled City.

The proceedings also focus on the impact of construction activity on heritage sites and the responsibility of authorities involved in approving such projects.

Jaipur’s Walled City was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2019, making protection of its historic urban character an important part of heritage management.

The High Court has directed that its order be published so that members of the public and experts can provide their views. The matter is scheduled for further consideration.

Free Ink Post will continue to follow developments in the Jaipur heritage case and the measures announced by the authorities.

Source: Times of India