During the Mughal rule in Kashmir, large army of Mughal soldiers was deployed across the valley. Initially, the Mughal army would settle in buildings, houses and other local construction. After people of Kashmir started rebellion against the Mughal rule, Akhbar decided to built a township for Mughal soldiers.
Subsequently, a large area of old city at the foot hills of Hari Parbat was walled. A 14 feet high stone wall was built from Nowhatta- Saidakadal stretching to Hawal –Badshahi Darwaza. The wall was built over 3.50 miles, all in stone with the cost of 1.30 crores and took 20 years for completion. The wall has three large gates. The construction was started in 1597 and completed during the reign of Shah Jahaan. The area within the walls served as a township for Mughal army, offices and residence for officers.
It was built to the taste of Mughal emperors and many beautiful gardens were laid around the hillock. Badam Wa’er was one such garden. It was made by Mughal administrator Waris Khan. It was under his directions that a Well was dug in the garden to provide water supply in the area. The Well is called ‘Waris Khanun Chaa’ in Kashmiri. There is a common belief that ancient rulers would throw the goons into the well as a punishment.
“That has no bases. There has been no evidence for that ever. It was simply a Well used for water supply,” said Zareef Ahmad Zareef, writer.
After being closed for 27 years, the Almond Alcove heritage garden was reopened few years back. Since then it has been a favorite haunt for valleyites. Nonetheless, the charm of Naagar Nagar has been lost.
“When we walk past the Naagar Nagar, we can hardly make out anything special there. This is because the heritage place has not been maintained,” said Arjumand, a university student.
Last year, the government had announced restoration of the Naagar Nagar, but no work has taken place on ground so far.
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