Bhopal: Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav inaugurated the newly restored Maa Ahilya Stepwell (bawdi) in Kanadia, Indore, on Sunday. The stepwell, over 200 years old, has been given a new form after extensive renovation. Expressing his satisfaction over the project, Dr. Yadav said that the philanthropic works of Devi Ahilya continue to inspire us even today. On the occasion, CM also offered prayers at the adjacent Shiva temple and paid floral tribute to the idol of Maa Ahilya.
The Indore Development Authority carried out the restoration of Bawdi at a cost of approximately ?1 crore as part of the Jal Ganga Samvardhan Abhiyan. Water Resources Minister and local MLA Shri Tulsiram Silawat informed that the stepwell was originally built around 200 years ago by Devi Ahilyabai during the Holkar era. The structure had fallen into a dilapidated condition in recent years, but has now been beautifully restored.
Urban Administration Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya, other public representatives and senior administrative officers were also present at the inauguration.
Divisional Commissioner and Administrator of the Indore Development Authority, Shri Deepak Singh, shared that the restoration of the Maa Ahilya Stepwell, measuring 60 meters in length, 21 meters in width, and 15 meters in depth, was completed under the Jal Ganga Samvardhan Abhiyan. The stepwell now has a water storage capacity of 1.68 MLD (approximately 1.68 million litres). Along with the stepwell, the ancient Shiva temple on the premises was renovated while preserving its original form. A boundary wall was constructed around the area, and a dense plantation was carried out.
Traditional Malwa-style artwork, particularly maandna designs, has been artistically painted on the stepwell, adding to its visual appeal and cultural significance.
