Hubballi: The ancient monuments of Aihole, situated in Bagalkot district, Karnataka, continue to be imperilled by encroachments and the presence of human settlements. Despite the state government’s efforts, the relocation of 942 families, comprising nearly 5,000 people living in and around the 122 protected temples and monuments, remains unresolved. This delay hampers the much-needed restoration and preservation of these historically significant sites.
Aihole, often referred to as the “cradle of Indian rock architecture,” was once the first capital of the Early Chalukyas. Its monuments, some dating back over a thousand years, are now in a deplorable condition. The structures have been encroached upon for housing cattle, parking vehicles, and in some cases, bricks and stones have been removed from archaeological structures.
The state government estimates that it would require at least ₹130 crore to rehabilitate the families currently residing in Aihole. However, sources in the Tourism Department have indicated that discussions at the government level have stalled, as there is concern over the viability of such a large investment in a project perceived to have low financial returns.
The demand for relocating the village of Aihole was first proposed 18 years ago, but progress has been slow. Villagers are caught in a difficult situation, as they are not permitted to repair or construct new houses due to the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958, which prohibits such activities in protected areas. Yet, the government has not provided them with an alternative location, leaving their living conditions to deteriorate.
Basavaraj Hiremath, a local resident, expressed his frustration, saying, “We volunteered to relocate so that the government could restore Aihole’s lost glory. However, the government, for the last two decades, hasn’t done anything. We are neither allowed to repair our houses nor relocate to the new Aihole village.”
A decade ago, 82 houses were relocated to make way for the development of the famous Durga temple, which is architecturally reminiscent of the Old Parliament of India. However, villagers report that the relocated site lacks basic amenities such as drinking water and roads, raising concerns about the adequacy of future rehabilitation efforts.
Bagalkot Assistant Commissioner Santosh B Jagalasar, who also serves as the chairman of the Chalukya Development Authority, acknowledged the challenges. He revealed that nearly 14 acres of land have recently been acquired for rehabilitation, with plans to accommodate about 200 families in the first phase. Priority will be given to 167 families living near eight monuments that have been completely encroached upon.
“To acquire and prepare a layout for 200 families, we spent nearly ₹12 crore. However, to relocate the entire village, we need around 70 acres of land and over ₹160 crore. Finding such a large area near Aihole is a significant hurdle,” Jagalasar explained. The administration plans to proceed with the relocation in a phased manner, depending on the availability of land and funds.
The ongoing delay in the rehabilitation process has severely affected the restoration and rejuvenation of the monuments. “Unless we clear the encroachments, it is hard to estimate the cost required to restore them. Some of the monuments, made of sandstone, are withering, leading to cracks,” stated Devaraju A., Commissioner of the Department of Archaeology, Museums and Heritage (DAMH).
As the situation stands, the future of Aihole’s ancient monuments hangs in the balance. The government’s ability to navigate the complex issues of land acquisition, funding, and community relocation will be critical to preserving these irreplaceable pieces of India’s architectural heritage.