150-year-old Baori (stepwell) discovered in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh

Muslims have encroached upon the upper part of Baori

Sambhal (UP) – Excavation work is underway at an ancient stepwell located in Laxman Ganj, Chandausi, in Sambhal. Two JCB machines and 30 workers are engaged in the excavation since 22ndDecember, which is still not completed. Ancient construction has been found there through the excavations so far, which is referred to as ‘Rani Ki Baori’. This construction is found about 6-7 feet underground and stretches about 8 to 10 meters in length. Muslims have illegally built houses on top of it. Action will now be taken against them.District Magistrate Dr. Rajender Pensiya and Superintendent of Police Krishan Kumar Bishnoi were present at the site. Dr. Pensiya said that currently, there is encroachment on an area of 210 square meters, which will be removed. The construction found beneath the stepwell is estimated to be about 125 to 150 years old.

1. On 17thDecember, the Banke Bihari temple was discovered in this area. On 21stDecember, a complaint was filed regarding encroachment on the stepwell in this area. Following this, the stepwell was discovered while taking action against the encroachment. A tunnel was found, and the stepwell is located 150 meters away from the Banke Bihari temple. The area of the stepwell is about 200 meters, and people have constructed houses by encroaching upon the surrounding area.

2. Local residents said that this stepwell was built during the time of the grandfather of Bilari Raja. Its second and third floors are made of marble, while the upper floor is made of bricks. It contains one well and four rooms. The stepwell was buried with soil. Excavation is being carried out slowly to prevent damage to the structure.

3. On 21stDecember, a team from the ASI (Archaeological Survey of India) inspected the Kalki Temple in Sambhal. The team photographed and filmed the temple’s dome, the carvings on its walls, and the complex.