Why a 145-Year-Old Begumpet Heritage Site Is at the Centre of a Demolition Row
HYDERABAD: A dispute has erupted over alleged demolition at the 145-year-old Chiran Fort Club in Begumpet, with a Paigah family member claiming that workers pulled down parts of the heritage structure on Saturday.
Obaid Ur Rehman, who lives in a section of the Paigah Palace, said several portions of the Grade-II heritage property have suffered damage. He noted that workers removed doors at the Chiran Palace and warned that further demolition could follow.
Rehman also alleged that workers demolished the main gate, a burj (tower), and other private structures to make way for a construction company’s office. He added that a club operating on the premises since the 1980s has shut down.
Concerns over heritage and civic works
Rehman said one side of the palace faces demolition for a flyover project planned by the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC). He pointed out that authorities are restoring the Mardana Mahal while demolition continues on another section.
The property, also known as Devdi Nawab Nazeer Jung, has strong historical links to the Paigah lineage. Nazeer Jung built prominent landmarks such as Falaknuma Palace and Pathergatti.
Owner denies damage
Property owner K. Prem Sagar Rao rejected the allegations and said no one had damaged the heritage structure. He added that any work would proceed only after securing the required permissions.
Officials from heritage and civic departments have yet to issue a statement.
