Following the recently concluded repair work on the Rumi Gate, Lucknow’s 187-year-old Chhota Imambara has emerged as the next heritage site requiring immediate attention. The restoration work has become critical as the western gate and several walls of this heritage structure are on the verge of collapse.

The need for repair came to light during a recent hearing of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed at the Lucknow Bench of the High Court. The petition not only emphasised the deteriorating condition of Chhota Imambara but also called for the removal of illegal encroachments from protected monuments across the city.

During the hearing, Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) admitted that parts of Chhota Imambara were indeed in a dilapidated state, which could lead to potential accidents. The court, taking note of the situation, directed the ASI to submit a detailed project plan and cost estimates for the repairs within two weeks. The ASI District Administration was also instructed to clear illegal encroachments near the entrance of the monument.