The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has chosen traditional methods of conservation, which have stood the test of time, to restore and conserve heritage structures in the Capital.

With the Commonwealth Games coming up in less than a year’s time, several historical monuments in the city can be seen coated with layers of plaster made of a variety of materials.

A mixture of lime and several indigenous ingredients like urad dal, the juice of bel and tobacco, jaggery and gum from the acacia tree, is being used for coating and plastering.

Surkhi, made of powdering bricks, Badarpur sand and stones like Delhi quartz are being used for reinforcing and restoring the walls, said K K Muhammed, superintending archaeologist, Delhi Circle, ASI.

“Around 46 monuments are being given a facelift for the CWG and we are trying to use traditional methods of conservation. At present, work is on at Kashmere Gate, Satpula in Khirki Village, Sher Shah Gate, Dadi Poti tombs in Hauz Khas, Delhi Gate, Safdarjung tomb, Najaf Khan Tomb and a few others. Some monuments like the Chhoti Gumti and Shakri Gumti have already been restored,” Muhammed said.

This traditional mixture is believed to have been used in ancient monuments, which have withstood the ravages of centuries. “Lime, as opposed to cement, lasts much longer. It is soaked in water for nearly a fortnight and when its heat is released completely, lime gets its full binding strength. Lime, however, takes more time to settle compared to cement. Cement starts settling in four to six hours. Lime takes nearly 21 days but lasts much longer than cement,” an ASI official said.

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