The Begum Shahi Mosque is facing an existential crisis as structural threats from persistent water seepage and illegal encroachments put one of Lahore’s most significant Mughal-era landmarks at risk of collapse.

Understanding the Begum Shahi Mosque structural threats

Located near the Delhi Gate of the Walled City, the mosque—also known as the Mosque of Mariyam Zamani—is a masterpiece of 17th-century architecture. However, modern urban neglect is taking a heavy toll. Persistent moisture rising from the foundation and walls is weakening the historic lime-mortar masonry, leading to cracks that threaten the integrity of its iconic domes and intricate fresco work.

  • Primary threat: Severe water seepage affecting the foundation and lower walls.
  • Secondary threat: Illegal land encroachments surrounding the mosque perimeter.
  • Location: Walled City, Lahore.

The impact of urban encroachment

Beyond the natural wear and tear of time, the mosque is suffering from man-made pressure. Illegal commercial stalls and unauthorized construction projects have encroached upon the monument’s buffer zone. These encroachments not only obscure the historical facade but also impede essential maintenance access, making it difficult for conservationists to address the drainage issues causing the seepage.

Local residents and heritage advocates have pointed out that the lack of strict administrative oversight has allowed these illegal structures to thrive. When drainage lines in the surrounding congested streets become clogged, the water often finds its way into the mosque’s aging masonry, accelerating the deterioration of the unique decorative panels that make this site a national treasure.

What you should do

If you are a resident or a visitor to the Walled City, you can play a role in preserving our history by reporting illegal construction activities to the Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA). Public awareness is the most effective tool to pressure authorities into taking decisive action. You can visit the official WCLA website at wcla.gop.pk to learn more about conservation efforts and how to register a complaint regarding heritage encroachment.

What to watch next

Keep an eye on the upcoming provincial government budget and heritage conservation grants. Civil society groups are currently demanding that the Department of Archaeology allocate specific funds for a comprehensive structural audit of the mosque. If the current seepage is not stopped before the next monsoon season, the damage to the interior frescoes may become irreversible. We will continue to track whether the authorities initiate a formal eviction process for the illegal encroachments surrounding the site.