Complete restoration of Jama Masjid in 18 months: HC

New Delhi, Oct 6 (UNI) The Delhi High Court today directed the auhtorities, including the Archaeolgical Survey of India (ASI) to complete the restoration and conservation work of the historic Mughul monument Jama Masjid in 18 months.

A division bench of Acting Chief Justice Vijender Jain and Justice Rekha Sharma asked the authorities to complete the revised project worth Rs 240 crore in a time-bound manner.

The Waqf Board and the MCD had submitted the project report before the High Court for the beautification of the Jama Masjid and its surrounding areas.

The MCD had asked the Delhi government to sanction the required money.

The court asked the state govenment not to disturb Deputy Commissioner(Central) Vijay Singh, who is the nodal officer for the execution of the project, till May 2007.

The Court suggested the MCD to introduce mono-rail transport system to get rid of heavy traffic and rickshaws in Chandni Chowk area.

Giving details about the break-ups, the MCD said Rs 40 crore would be sent for multi-level under-ground car parking, Rs 19 crore for development of Netaji Subhash Marg corridor from Lothian Bridge Crossing to Daryaganj crossing, and Rs 6.30 crore for development of peripheral roads from Netaji Subhash Marg till Parade Ground and Rs 8.14 crore for development of the area near Meena Bazar in the 18 months.

While hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL), the bench had said, ''The monument must be placed in its right perspective. The bitter truth must be digested by removing the illegal structures.'' UNI PAT HS RN1955