Poisonous Gas Halts Stepwell Excavation in Sambhal; Ancient Structures Discovered

Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, 2nd January 2025: Excavation work on an ancient stepwell in the Laxmanganj area of Sambhal has been temporarily halted after the release of poisonous gas caused panic among workers. The incident occurred on the 12th day of digging, during efforts to uncover the second underground floor of the stepwell. Workers reported seeing smoke coming out of the site and were reportedly short of oxygen, which made the officials of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) stop further excavation. Discovery of Historic Structures

Initial digging revealed an intricately constructed first underground floor with a red stone floor, 12 doors surrounding a verandah, and stairs leading further down. Eight ancient niches were also found embedded in the walls, indicating the potential for additional undiscovered levels.

This stepwell, which is situated on a 210-square-meter vacant plot, has been partially covered by encroachments. Residential houses have been built atop parts of the structure. Revenue records suggest the stepwell spans 400 square meters.

Gas Leak Raises Concerns

Poisonous gas was found during the excavation of the second underground floor, and safety has been a hazard. ASI officials, including officer Rajesh Meena, ordered the digging to be stopped in order to ensure the safety of the workers and the preservation of the site. Work is in progress on cleaning up the first floor with hopes of starting the exploration again once safety measures are implemented. # Other Moves to Protect Sambhal’s Heritage

District Magistrate Dr. Rajendra Pansia decided to begin excavation after a public complaint on December 21 during Samadhan Diwas. One of the several ancient historical structures is being revived in Sambhal, and it is part of a large-scale attempt to revive heritage across the district. Efforts are also being made to identify as many as 19 old wells in the district. Out of the 68 religious pilgrimage sites, 34 have already been identified to be rejuvenated.

Modernization and Security Upgrades

Besides heritage conservation, there have been considerable efforts toward modernizing Sambhal. A police post is coming up near Jama Masjid; others are likely to be raised in Khaggu Sarai and Deepa Sarai. The district would soon be under CCTV cameras at an estimated ₹5 crore as the security improves.

By 2025, authorities envision Sambhal as a “chef city” where heritage would be maintained while developing into something modern and holding great promises of change in the region.