Chandausi
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History
Stepwell, tunnel
Kanwardeep Singh, Dec 23, 2024: The Times of India
Bareilly : A stepwell believed to be 150 years old, along with a tunnel that may have served as an escape route during the 1857 rebellion against the British Raj, was discovered during an anti-encroachment drive in the Laxman Ganj area of Chandausi, Sambhal. The structure is located near the Banke Bihari temple, which has fallen into disrepair and is part of ongoing efforts to uncover historical sites in the area.
Sambhal DM Rajender Pensiya and SP Krishan Kumar Bishnoi inspected the site on Sunday. Pensiya said, “The stepwell (baoli) spans 400 square metres and is recorded as a pond in revenue records. The excavation is proceeding carefully to avoid damage. Encroachments around the site will also be removed.”
On Sunday, an Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) team surveyed five shrines and 19 wells in the region, including the newly discovered site. The inspection lasted nearly 10 hours and covered 24 locations. Pensiya said, “The ASI’s findings will guide our next steps in preserving Sambhal’s rich historical heritage.”
Excavation efforts, led by Krishna Kumar Sonkar, executive officer of the Chandausi nagar palika, revealed approximately 210 square metres of the site so far. “We are working meticulously to uncover the remaining areas and restore the structure,” Sonkar said.
Locals claim the stepwell was constructed during the reign of the King of Bilari’s maternal grandfather. The structure features three levels — two made of marble and the top level of bricks — along with a well and four cham- bers. Residents believe the tunnel dates back to the 1857 uprising, serving as an escape route for freedom fighters fleeing British forces. A local historian said, “The underground chambers and tunnel might have been critical for the safety of revolutionaries during the rebellion.”
The discovery has also brought attention to the Banke Bihari temple, located near the stepwell, which has fallen into disrepair. Pensiya assured that the temple would be renovated and a survey by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) might be conducted if needed.
The anti-encroachment drive in Smbhal began after the violence on Nov 24 during a court-ordered ASI examination of the Mughal-era Shahi Jama Masjid. The survey aimed to investigate claims that the mosque was constructed over a demolished Hindu temple from the Mughal era. The clashes led to the deaths of five individuals and injuries to more than 20 police personnel. Subsequently, on Dec 13, the Bhasma Shankar temple in Sambhal was reopened after being closed for 46 years.