Citizens Demand Protection for Historic Well in Gadwal
Concerned citizens and public organizations have urged the District Collector to take immediate action to protect the historic “Kotha Bhavi” (New Well) in Gadwal town. This well, which dates back to the era of the Gadwal kings, is an important part of the region’s heritage. However, it is now under threat due to encroachment.
Reports suggest that former Municipal Chairman G. Venugopal, with support from some political figures, has started an illegal plan to fill the well with soil and build a shopping complex around it. This project has not received proper government approval. The issue was brought to the attention of the Municipal Commissioner and the District Collector in January, but no concrete action has been taken yet.
In response to this lack of action, various public organizations, including senior political leaders and citizen forums, have come together to demand immediate intervention. They stressed the importance of preserving historical structures from the Gadwal kings’ era and preventing their destruction for commercial purposes.
Public Warning of Large-Scale Protests
Protest leaders warned that if the authorities do not act, they will organize a large-scale public movement under the banner of an all-party protest (Akhilapaksham). Their goal is to raise awareness and protect the well. They also emphasized that preserving heritage structures is the responsibility of society and vowed to continue their fight against encroachments.
District Collector Promises Action
After hearing the concerns, the District Collector assured the public that illegal construction would be stopped. He also promised to install fencing around the well to secure the site.
Leaders Who Participated in the Protest
Several political and social leaders participated in the protest, including:
– Madhusudan Babu – Senior Congress Party Leader
– Mohan Rao – President, Senior Citizens’ Forum
– Shankara Prabhakar – District President, Walkers Association
– Shubhan – President, Civil Rights Association (Unified District)
– Nagaraj – Vice President, Telangana Praja Front (Unified District)
– Uppeeru Shubhan – TNSF State Official Spokesperson
– Jamichedu Karthik – District General Secretary, IFTU
– Praveen (AISF), Valmiki (BRS), Kollu Hussain (BRS), Ranganna (CPI)
The movement to protect the Kotha Bhavi has received strong support from various political and social organizations. Citizens remain hopeful that government intervention will help safeguard this historic structure from further encroachment.