Besides being the commercial capital of India, the city of Mumbai holds significant historic importance. Although the city is now cluttered by modern-day dwellings, traces of colonial-era architecture are still evident in many parts.
Adding to the same, the city yet again unveiled another historic spectacle on November 2, Wednesday, when a British-era tunnel was discovered below the JJ Hospital in the Nagpada area.
How was the passage discovered?
The 200-metre-long tunnel was discovered when the hospital authorities were inspecting water leakages in the premises.
The tunnel was discovered serendipitously by a medical officer during the investigation of the water leakages. Following this, he found a hole in the air ventilation system on the surface of the college. This led to the discovery of the tunnel entrance.
The tunnel allowed safe passage for the transfer of patients
The JJ Hospital itself is the oldest hospital in Mumbai which was constructed back in 1845. The government-run hospital once served as a medical ward for the treatment of women and children.
Reportedly, the tunnel dates back to the year 1890, and it was substantiated by the means of a foundation stone which was found inside the tunnel. This underground passage connected the present day nursing college building which was previously an obstetric department to another building which constituted of the gynaecology department and the children’s ward.
Furthermore, the tunnel remained undiscovered earlier as there was no official map to it. For now, the hospital authorities have shared the information with the Collector’s office and the archeology department which will carry out the further investigation.
