ARCHITECTURAL DOCUMENTATION
Bansilalpet Stepwell,
Secunderabad
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Introduction & Project Brief
Project Overview
The Bansilalpet Stepwell, located in Secunderabad, Telangana, is a historic stepwell
(Baoli/Vav) dating back to the 17th-18th century. After years of neglect, it was
revitalized in 2022 and now stands as a restored heritage structure with public access.
Purpose of Study C
This documentation aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the stepwell's architectural Con
nuances, historical evolution, and its role as a social and environmental asset. of B
📍Location & Context
St
The Bansilalpet Stepwell is nestled within the dense urban fabric of Secunderabad,
Telangana, an integral part of the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad. Its strategic
location historically provided vital water access to surrounding communities. Today, it
stands as a verdant oasis amidst bustling roads and evolving urban infrastructure.
History
Constructed around the 17th-18th century, likely during the Qutb Shahi or Asaf Jahi
dynasty, the stepwell served as a crucial water conservation structure and a vibrant social
gathering place. Over centuries, it fell into disuse and disrepair, becoming a dumping
ground. A significant revival effort led by HMDA, The Rainwater Project, and Kalpana
Ramesh in 2021-2022 brought this forgotten heritage back to life.
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Architectural Style & Influences
The Bansilalpet Stepwell exemplifies vernacular Deccan architecture, characterized by its robust
construction and functional elegance. The design showcases a deep understanding of hydro-architecture,
integrating a complex system of steps, landings, and arches that descend to the water level.
Typology & Plan Site & Floor Plans
The site plan delineates the stepwell's precise
The stepwell follows a distinct typology, featuring a rectangular
location within its surroundings, while the floor plan
plan with a long flight of steps on one side and galleries or
illustrates its internal layout, including stairways,
pavilions on the others. Its depth and orientation were carefully
landings, and water collection areas.
planned to maximize water retention and accessibility.
Decorative Motifs
Sections & Elevations
While primarily functional, the stepwell incorporates subtle
decorative motifs, including geometric patterns and carved Longitudinal and cross-sections reveal the vertical dimensions and subterranean
stone details, reflecting the regional aesthetic. The inherent structure, essential for comprehending the stepwell's depth and water management.
symmetry of the structure contributes to its visual appeal. Elevations showcase the external facades and architectural features.
Cultural Significance
Beyond its utility, the stepwell held significant cultural and symbolic
value as a community hub and a testament to traditional water
management practices. Its revival underscores the importance of
preserving such structures.
Measured Drawings
Accurate measured drawings are fundamental to
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understanding and preserving heritage structures. For the
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representation of its scale, proportions, and intricate details. 8th Sem,
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Materials & Construction Techniques Architectural Elements & Ornamentation
The longevity of the Bansilalpet Stepwell is a testament to the robust materials and
The Bansilalpet Stepwell, while utilitarian, possesses distinct architectural elements that
sophisticated construction techniques employed centuries ago. Understanding these
contribute to its visual character and historical authenticity.
methods offers insights into the engineering prowess of the period.
Stone Type Stairways & Pillars & Restoration
Landings Arches Additions
The primary material used in the stepwell's construction is local stone, likely granite
Where present, the pillars The recent restoration carefully
or basalt, known for its durability and resistance to weathering. This choice ensured The elaborate system of
and arches exhibit regional introduced modern elements like
the structural integrity of the deep, stepped structure. descending steps and
architectural detailing, signages and safety railings,
intermediate landings is the
providing structural support blending seamlessly with the
defining feature, showcasing
Construction Technology sophisticated engineering and visual rhythm to the ancient structure while ensuring
descent into the well. public safety and information.
The stepped design itself is an ingenious construction technology, allowing access and a sense of grandeur.
to receding water levels and distributing structural loads efficiently. Rainwater
channeling systems were integrated to direct runoff into the well, ensuring
consistent water supply.
Masonry Technique
Ashlar masonry, characterized by finely dressed, uniformly sized stones, was
predominantly used for the walls and steps, providing stability and a smooth finish.
Lime plastering was applied to waterproof surfaces and enhance durability.
Structural Stability
Despite centuries of neglect, the fundamental structural stability of the original
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construction remained. The recent restoration focused on reinforcing weak points
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and ensuring the longevity of the revitalized structure.
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⛲ Water Management System
The Bansilalpet Stepwell stands as a prime example of historical water management
ingenuity, designed to harness and conserve rainwater within an arid climate.
Rainwater Harvesting
The primary historical purpose was to collect rainwater
from the surrounding catchment area, directing it into the
deep reservoir.
Revived Water Cycle
Post-restoration, the stepwell once again plays a vital role
in the local water cycle, serving as a functional water body
and an educational model for sustainable practices.
Water Table Recharge
Beyond storage, stepwells like Bansilalpet actively
contributed to recharging local groundwater tables,
sustaining nearby wells and vegetation.
Inflow/Outflow Mechanisms
Designed with careful grading and channels, the
stepwell efficiently managed water inflow during
monsoons and minimized evaporation.
Its design ensured a reliable water source for the Syed Abdullah
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aquifer. 8th Sem,
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🛠️ Restoration Approach (2021–2022) Site Visit Documentation
The restoration of the Bansilalpet Stepwell was a meticulous undertaking, guided by Comprehensive site visit documentation was vital for capturing the transformation of the
principles of conservation and community engagement, transforming a dilapidated site into Bansilalpet Stepwell. This included extensive photographic records and on-site sketches.
a vibrant public space.
Conclusion
Conservation Philosophy Stepwells are invaluable examples of
The project adhered to a philosophy of minimal intervention, aiming to preserve the sustainable Indian water architecture.
original fabric while ensuring structural stability and public accessibility. The Bansilalpet Stepwell's revival
highlights the importance of
reclaiming forgotten heritage.
Restoration Process
Lessons from this study
The process involved extensive desilting, repair of damaged masonry,
inform contemporary urban
structural strengthening, and careful cleaning of accumulated debris that had
sustainability practices.
filled the well for decades.
References
Key Stakeholders INTACH reports
A collaborative effort between Kalpana Ramesh (The Rainwater Project),
Articles: The Hindu, Deccan Chronicle
HMDA (Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority), and various NGOs
was crucial for successful execution. Government publications (HMDA)
Website: [Link]
Adaptive Reuse
Beyond physical restoration, the stepwell was reactivated as a heritage asset for
adaptive reuse, serving as a public park, cultural venue, and educational site,
enriching the urban environment. Syed Abdullah
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