Jaipur, October 3, 2026: Jaipur’s historic Walled City could face the risk of losing its UNESCO World Heritage status unless urgent steps are taken to protect its architectural and cultural character, the Rajasthan High Court has warned. The court’s concern follows reports of unauthorised construction, encroachments and alterations affecting the heritage area.
The High Court observed that “heritage, once lost, cannot be recreated”, underlining the lasting consequences of damage to historic buildings and the city’s traditional layout. Jaipur received UNESCO World Heritage recognition in 2019 for its distinctive urban planning, architecture and cultural traditions.
In an order passed on September 26, the court initiated proceedings on its own after taking note of reports concerning the condition of the Walled City. It warned that failure to implement effective corrective measures before December 2026 could put the city’s international recognition at risk.
Court Seeks Explanation From Authorities
The court has issued notices to 10 state and local authorities, seeking details about the steps taken to preserve Jaipur’s heritage. It has directed the Jaipur Development Authority and municipal corporations to survey unauthorised and unregulated construction in the Walled City and submit a report within two weeks.
Authorities have also been asked to provide information on construction permissions, heritage impact assessments and action taken against violations over the past five years. The court wants details of enforcement measures, including demolition, sealing, prosecution and penalties, where applicable.
It has further sought clarification on whether buffer zones, height restrictions and architectural guidelines are in place, and whether these rules are being followed.
UNESCO Had Previously Raised Concerns
Jaipur’s heritage conservation challenges have been discussed at the international level before the latest court intervention. UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee raised concerns in 2023 and again in 2025 about the protection and management of the site.
In its 2025 decision, the committee noted reports of historic houses being demolished and called on India to provide details about the extent of the damage and measures to prevent further losses. It also asked for progress on Jaipur’s Special Area Heritage Plan and a clearer implementation strategy.
The committee has requested an updated report on the site’s conservation status by December 1, 2026. This deadline adds urgency to the work expected from the state and local authorities.
Why Jaipur’s Heritage Recognition Matters
Jaipur was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List because of its planned urban design, historic markets, public squares, gates, traditional buildings and cultural significance. The city was founded in the 18th century under Sawai Jai Singh II and is recognised for its distinctive grid-based layout.
The Walled City includes important landmarks and traditional commercial areas that together reflect Jaipur’s historic character. Conservation is therefore not limited to protecting individual monuments; it also involves maintaining the wider urban setting that gives the city its identity.
The court has cautioned that uncontrolled development could affect this character and weaken the value for which Jaipur received international recognition.
Time-Bound Conservation Plan Required
The High Court has asked authorities to prepare a phased plan covering immediate and long-term measures to stop further deterioration and preserve the city’s historic features. It has also sought explanations about coordination between departments and possible gaps in the enforcement of existing rules.
The warning does not mean Jaipur has already lost its UNESCO status. Rather, it highlights the risk if conservation concerns remain unresolved.
The coming weeks will be important for the state government and local bodies as they respond to the court’s directions and prepare information for UNESCO. Their actions will help determine whether Jaipur’s historic identity can be protected while the city continues to develop.
