The 300-year-old Bhonsle-era stepwell located in the historic and ecologically significant Sonegaon Aamrai area has finally received a new lease of life after a massive clean-up operation undertaken by the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC). The restoration effort came days after The Hitavada highlighted the alarming neglect and pollution of the heritage structure in its report published in CityLine on April 29. The centuries-old well, believed to have been constructed during the reign of Raje Raghuji Bhonsle and later protected during British rule, had gradually turned into a dumping ground. Hundreds of liquor and plastic water bottles, along with large quantities of debris, sludge and waste, were found floating and submerged inside the well. Responding to repeated demands from the ‘Save Sonegaon Aamrai Group’ and growing public concern following the media report, the NMC’s Fire and Health Department launched an intensive cleaning operation.

 

Officials deployed manpower and modern machinery, while the water from the well was pumped out twice to remove accumulated filth and silt. The initiative was supervised following a site inspection by Shivani Dani-Wakhare, Chairperson, NMC Standing Committee; corporator Amol Shyamkule, and Ishwar Dhengale, along with officials from the Fire Department and Laxmi Nagar Zone. Directions were issued to restore the stepwell and improve cleanliness around the nearby Hanuman temple precinct.

 

Though the water may not yet be fit for drinking, it is now expected to support irrigation needs for the surviving trees in the Aamrai belt. Environmental volunteers also plan to revive the lost heritage of the mango grove by planting fresh mango saplings and restoring the area’s historic green cover. Residents noted that the secluded and scenic location often attracts youngsters for celebrations, while anti-social elements use the area for drinking sessions, leaving behind garbage that severely damages both the heritage well and the surrounding grove. Citizens and activists have now appealed to visitors not to litter, dump ritual waste or pollute the historic site further.