Jaipur: Jaipur Municipal Corporation’s (JMC) heritage cell and World Monuments Fund India (WMFI) have begun restoring four historic baoris (stepwells) in Walled City, aiming to revive them as water sources, community spaces and cultural attractions.The project covers Bangali Baba Baori, Gaitore Baori, Kale Hanumanji ki Baori and Parshuram Baori, all located within the UNESCO World Heritage Site.Officials said Bangali Baba Baori and Gaitore Baori are expected to be completed by Dec 15, 2026, while work on Kale Hanumanji ki Baori and Parshuram Baori is likely to finish by Feb 13, 2027.“The project focuses on conserving the historic fabric of these water structures, rejuvenating their traditional water systems and improving their physical condition through appropriate conservation measures and site development works,” a senior heritage cell member said.The project, initially scheduled for completion between April 2024 and Sept 2026, faced delays due to pending no-objection certificates and the appointment of specialist consultants.Tata Consultancy Services Foundation, the turnkey contractor, and implementing agencies are also working on a post-restoration maintenance plan. WMFI is in talks with community groups, organisations and NGOs to explore a memorandum of understanding with JMC for long-term upkeep.“The immediate priority is to complete the conservation works within the revised timelines, followed by the formal handover of the sites and an arrangement for their long-term maintenance,” a JMC official said.The restoration has also drawn UNESCO’s attention. In its 2025 State of Conservation report, UNESCO flagged that work on the baoris was listed as ongoing while Heritage Impact Assessments (HIAs) were reportedly still in progress. It sought clarification on how the projects proceeded without assessments of their impact on the Walled City’s heritage.An official said HIAs for the projects had been prepared.
