Golconda Fort 'Tunnel' Sparks Excitement, But ASI Finds Chamber Instead

A reported discovery of a tunnel at the 500-year-old Golconda Fort in Hyderabad sparked excitement, but the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) found that the structure is actually a small rectangular chamber made of granite stone, not a tunnel. The chamber measures approximately 1.2m x 1.8m x 2.2m.

The structure was discovered during work being carried out by the Army's Artillery Centre, Golconda, behind the fort. The ASI sent a team to the site to verify the claim of a tunnel being found. The team included an archaeologist, an engineer, a surveyor, and the site in-charge of Golconda Fort.

The ASI team found that the chamber is constructed of granite stone, with rough stone masonry forming an internal wall-like structure. They also found a few red-coloured potsherds, which appear to belong to the medieval period. The area where the structure was found falls within the prohibited zone of Golconda Fort, which extends beyond 100 metres from the fortification wall.

The discovery of the chamber has generated significant interest, with many people visiting the site to catch a glimpse of the structure. Karwan MLA Mr. Kausar Mohiuddin shared the information about the discovery on Thursday evening, which sparked the excitement.

## What happens next The ASI Hyderabad Circle will report the matter to the Director General, ASI, and conduct a detailed investigation after approval. The exact purpose and use of the chamber are not yet known, and the investigation aims to determine its significance.

The Golconda Fort is a multi-layered fort that dates back to the Kakatiya and Qutb Shahi dynasties. There have been rumours about secret tunnels and passages connecting the fort to various parts of Hyderabad, including Charminar, Goshamahal, Chowmahalla Palace, and Naubat Pahad. While the discovery of the chamber has sparked excitement, it remains to be seen what secrets it holds.

The discovery of the chamber is significant, not only because of its historical importance but also because it highlights the need for careful excavation and preservation of historical sites. The ASI's investigation will provide more insight into the chamber's purpose and use, and its findings will be eagerly awaited by historians and enthusiasts alike.