The Sher Shah Suri Tomb, an octagonal structure rising 122 feet above a 22-acre artificial lake in Sasaram, Bihar, has stood since 1545. Erected for Sher Shah Suri, the Pathan emperor who established his empire by defeating the Mughals, this monument is renowned for its architectural brilliance. The tomb is not only a memorial to Suri but also reflects an administrative legacy that influenced both the Mughal Empire and British governance in India.

Designed by architect Mir Muhammad Aliwal Khan, the tomb features a square stone plinth and is surrounded by domed kiosks and steps leading down to the lake. Visitors traverse a stone bridge to reach the main structure, which is crowned by a dome 22 metres high. For nearly five centuries, the lake has complemented the monument, forming an integral part of its historical context.

Recent findings from a Right to Information (RTI) application filed by India Today raise serious concerns about the structural integrity of the tomb, highlighting issues pertaining to the management of the surrounding water system.

Concerns Over Structural Integrity and Environmental Health

An RTI response from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) revealed that the dome of the tomb is facing deterioration. Specifically, on August 9, 2026, a stone fragment fell from the dome, raising alarms regarding the monument’s structural condition. Fortunately, no visitors were reported injured from this incident. Photographs submitted with the report show debris scattered near the base of the structure.

Additionally, investigations uncovered that ASI lacks jurisdiction over the canals supplying water to the lake. The inlet and outlet channels, originally designed for the tomb, have fallen into disrepair and are reportedly being encroached upon. This deterioration has resulted in local sewage being introduced into the lake, significantly compromising its water quality.

When queried about the last instance of maintenance for the water system, ASI’s response was problematic, stating that the agency does not maintain the canals and is not responsible for their upkeep. This gap in oversight creates a precarious situation for both the monument and its environment.

Environmental Hazards and Local Response

An alarming letter from ASI to the Rohtas District Magistrate detailed the disposal of garbage and biomedical waste in the canal systems adjacent to the tomb. This waste poses health risks and environmental hazards, potentially contaminating the water and affecting aquatic life in the lake. The letter requests corrective measures from local authorities to prevent further pollution.

In response to the growing concerns about the state of the site, Rohtas District Magistrate Deepak Kumar Mishra acknowledged that investigations are underway regarding the waste disposal and steps will be taken against the violators. Furthermore, plans are in motion to construct a boundary wall around the canal to deter future dumping, thereby protecting the monument and its immediate surroundings.

Moreover, a long-standing dispute concerning the water supply to the tomb’s lake alleges that a beautification project initiated in 2018 compromised the water source, impacting local fishing operations. This complaint resonates with a previous Patna High Court order mandating protection measures for the heritage site.

Financial Oversight and Future Plans

Despite the growing issues, ASI’s recent financial records indicate a marked increase in spending related to the tomb and its immediate environment. However, it has not been clarified how these funds are being allocated, especially given the ongoing structural and environmental challenges.

Additionally, ASI failed to provide information regarding proposed projects such as a water pump station intended to funnel clean water into the lake, and no technical study examining the impact of stagnant water on the monument’s condition has been made available.

District Magistrate Mishra has assured that the Water Resources Department is drafting a plan to restore the water quality in Sher Shah’s lake, indicating a proactive approach towards addressing these multifaceted issues. Ongoing repairs and restoration efforts are anticipated, ensuring the monument’s preservation for future generations.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share