Jaipur: Pre-monsoon showers have exposed the deteriorating condition of several historic gates in Jaipur’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Walled City, prompting concerns among residents and traders over the lack of regular maintenance.At Ajmer Gate, blocked drainage outlets atop the structure led to rainwater overflowing and cascading down the walls during recent showers. The seepage has resulted in moss growth, blackened surfaces and peeling plaster. “After the beautification work years ago, authorities never carried out repairs,” said resident Mohammad Jaaid.Sanganeri Gate is facing similar issues, with clogged drains, damaged plaster and broken concrete platforms. Of the seven lights installed at the gate, only two are functional. “These gates are Jaipur’s identity, but authorities undertake repairs only once in five years,” said shopkeeper Ramesh Tejnani.The condition of Surajpole Gate has emerged as a major concern. Large cracks, damaged stonework and exposed bricks are visible at several locations. “A month ago, a large portion of plaster fell from the gateway wall,” said local worker Dinesh Banjara.At Chandpole Gate, recent rains caused chunks of lime plasters to fall onto the pavement, raising safety concerns. “If urgent repairs are not undertaken immediately, the entire gate may collapse during the monsoon,” said shopkeeper Mohammad Riyaz.Officials, however, said maintenance responsibility lies with the civic body. “These gates are the identity of Jaipur and a major tourist attraction. The Nagar Nigam must maintain them and inspect them every year instead of waiting for three to five years,” said Neeraj Tripathi, Superintendent (Jaipur Circle), Department of Archaeology and Museums.Additional CEO of Jaipur Smart City Project Narender Kumar Gupta, said the gates were renovated between 2014 and 2016 and that funds had already been provided to JMC for repair and maintenance work.Repeated attempts to contact the JMC commissioner for comment remained unsuccessful.
