Fri May 16 17:53:23 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a rewritten news article:

**Summary:**

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), in collaboration with the World Monuments Fund India (WMFI) and the TCS Foundation, has completed the restoration of Rajon ki Baoli, a 16th-century stepwell in Delhi’s Mehrauli Archaeological Park. The restoration included cleaning, de-silting, structural repairs, and improvements to water quality, all using traditional techniques and materials. Local communities were involved in educational programs to promote the Baoli’s cultural significance and ensure its long-term care. The project is part of a larger initiative to restore historic water systems in India as sustainable water management solutions, particularly relevant in the context of climate change.

**News Article:**

**Rajon ki Baoli Restored to Former Glory in Delhi**

**New Delhi, May 16, 2025** – Rajon ki Baoli, a magnificent 16th-century stepwell nestled within the Mehrauli Archaeological Park, has been meticulously restored, breathing new life into this historical treasure. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), in partnership with the World Monuments Fund India (WMFI) and supported by the TCS Foundation, announced the successful completion of the conservation project today.

Built during the Lodi dynasty around 1506, Rajon ki Baoli served as both a water source and a resting place for travelers. The four-tiered structure features elegant arched colonnades and intricate stone carvings, reflecting the artistic sophistication of the era. The restored stepwell now boasts cleaned and de-silted reservoirs, improved drainage systems, and enhanced water quality, aided by the introduction of fish. Traditional materials like lime plaster and mortar were used throughout the restoration to maintain the Baoli’s authenticity.

“The restoration was guided by historical records to retain the site’s Lodi-era authenticity,” stated a senior ASI official. The project encompassed structural repairs across the 1,610 square meter site, which descends to a depth of 13.4 meters.

Beyond the physical restoration, the project emphasized community engagement. Educational programs and participatory conservation activities were implemented to raise awareness of the Baoli’s cultural and ecological significance, ensuring its continued care for generations to come.

This restoration forms part of WMFI’s Historic Water Systems of India initiative, funded by the TCS Foundation, which aligns with the World Monuments Fund’s Climate Heritage Initiative. The Union Ministry of Culture has hailed the project as an example of how restoring traditional water systems can provide sustainable solutions for water management in the face of growing climate challenges. The restored Rajon ki Baoli promises to be a significant attraction for tourists and a valuable resource for local communities, showcasing the rich history and sustainable practices of ancient India.

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