All protected monuments in Lucknow will be cleared of encroachments, Divisional Commissioner Roshan Jacob directed officials in a recent meeting. In order to save these monuments from damage, a joint survey will be conducted by the district administration and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The survey will further aid in formation of a plan to identify illegal encroachments and remove squatters.

Five major protected monuments have been considered in the first phase — Bara Imambara, Saadat Ali and Mushirzadi Tomb, Sher Darwaza (Neil’s Gate), Qaiserbagh Gate and Kaiser Pasand cemetery. Efforts are being put in to evict squatters from the heritage zone. Some 19 encroachments in and around Bara Imambara and six around Asafi Masjid will be cleared further.

The steps will ensure encroachment-free monuments after which these monuments will be revamped promptly by ASI.

(With inputs from IANS)