Tankshal ni Masjid: Possibilities of the Future

“Documentation of the existing system and mapping of distress in the structure will create the basis for the detailed investigation in form of testing.”

On visiting this age-old Tankshal ni Pol masjid, I could relate the limited use of materials and structural systems with a simple living standard in that era. The use of a wooden post and beam system with the least load path reflects the genuine knowledge of the properties of materials used and the behaviour of the structural system in the constructors of that era. Due to lack of maintenance and ignorance, there is profound deterioration in the wooden members and due to the same, the entrance portion is in a precarious situation. Moreover, the extension to the masjid was done later using a girders-stone plank system, which has been severely corroded due to leakage through joints. Documentation of the existing system and mapping of distress in the structure will create the basis for the detailed investigation in form of testing. It is going to be a live structural and conservation laboratory creating huge scope and opportunity to co-relate the strength of existing structural members with non-destructive and partial destructive testing results to create a useful database for working out the scheme of structural conservation. Feeling so thrilled to be a part of a passionate team!!!

5th January 2021