MANIT Bhopal experts commence scientific conservation of historic 'Kundi Bhandara'; work begins to preserve centuries-old underground water management marvel
Bhopal: A team of experts from the Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology (MANIT), Bhopal, and water management specialists has launched a significant initiative aimed at the conservation and revitalization of the world-famous, historic water management system known as Kundi Bhandara.
Kundli Bhandara is located near the Lalbagh area, at the foothills of the Satpura hills in Burhanpur district. It is approximately 8 kilometers from the district headquarters.
Detailed site inspection conducted
A detailed site inspection was conducted at the behest of the Directorate of Archaeology, Archives, and Museums, Government of Madhya Pradesh. The technical team was led by Dr. Rutuja Chavan from MANIT Bhopal.
During the inspection, the experts assessed the current condition of the historic water system and conducted a preliminary study regarding the possibilities for its conservation, revitalization, and technical improvement. They also examined the underground water structures, the water flow mechanism, and various associated technical aspects.
First crucial step
Dr. Rutuja Chavan stated that this initiative marks the first crucial step toward the scientific conservation and revitalization of the historic water structures and the interconnected water management system of Kundi Bhandara. Based on this preliminary study, a roadmap for a detailed technical survey, documentation, and conservation work will be prepared.
Kolar Dynamics, Bhopal, provided support as a field and logistics partner during the inspection, playing a vital role in facilitating the experts' site visit, local coordination, transportation, and other necessary arrangements.
Kundi Bhandara was developed in the absence of modern pumping technology
It is noteworthy that Kundi Bhandara is globally renowned for its centuries-old underground water supply system and remarkable engineering. Developed in the absence of modern pumping technology, this system stands as an excellent example of the water management skills, traditional knowledge, and technical proficiency of that era.
Dr. Rutuja Chavan explained that the initiative aims to understand Kundi Bhandara's historic water system from a scientific perspective, preserve its original form and heritage significance, and identify appropriate technical measures for its sustainable revitalization.
Moving forward, detailed technical studies, structural analyses, and necessary conservation work will be undertaken. This initiative is seen as opening up new possibilities for the conservation of Madhya Pradesh's unique water heritage by bringing together expertise in archaeology, engineering, and water management, along with field support, onto a single platform.