Clock at Newly Built Burj in Masab Tank Stops Working Months After Opening

HYDERABAD — The three-faced clock atop the newly built Burj at Masab Tank has stopped functioning just months after its inauguration, drawing criticism from daily commuters and residents over civic maintenance.

The monument was constructed to commemorate 157 years of municipal administration in Hyderabad, which began in 1869. Inaugurated on December 31, 2025, the octagonal structure was conceived as a modern interpretation of the historic bastions of the Deccan Plateau, complemented by an adjoining giant pearl to represent Hyderabad's heritage as the City of Pearls. The Burj was built using natural lime mortar and compressed stabilised earth blocks.

According to Mir Khan, founder of Deccan Terrain Heritage, the firm that designed and executed the project, the structure was handed over to the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) before January 1, 2026. However, no ongoing maintenance contract was established after the transfer.

Khan explained that the clock requires consistent upkeep, including regular electricity supply, water connection, cleaning, and protection, all of which fall under the responsibility of the municipal corporation and power utilities. He noted that while the project overcame multiple challenges during construction at one of the city's busiest intersections—such as public interference, theft, and procedural delays—subsequent upkeep has stalled.

Local commuters expressed disappointment over the landmark's condition. Resident Kanishq Bhati noted that the clock stopped operating before completing even a year, while another resident, Fareeha Fatima, questioned accountability for maintaining the public installation.

When contacted regarding the non-functioning clock, GHMC Commissioner RV Karnan stated that efforts were underway to address the issue.