Corpn Aims For Mar 2011 Completion As 20% Of Work Is Over

CHENNAI: The restoration of the historic Ripon Buildings, seat of the Chennai Corporation, is likely to completed by March next year, according to mayor M Subramanian. The building, a fine example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, is being restored under the centre's flagship Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission.

The state government is bearing 15% of the Rs 7.7 crore project, the centre 35% and the corporation 50%. The local body engaged conservation architects Ravi Gundu Rao& Associates to conduct a study on the defects in the architectural splendour of the stately building that was built in 1913. "At least 20% of the restoration work is over in the building that has stood the ravages of time," mayor Subramanian said.

The entire ground floor will be put to use for a museum. Presently, the offices of bureaucrats of the rank of IAS are on the first floor, while the elected council hall, the chambers of the mayor and deputy mayor, and offices of the standing committees, ruling and opposition floor leaders are on the second. To facilitate the restoration work, the offices of the district elections department, the land and estates wing and the electricity section have been shifted to nearby corporation schools and buildings.

The conservation architect, in his report, had detailed the damages to the structure over the years. Roof leakage, seepage, dampness in the walls, damages to weathering course, deterioration of ceiling plaster, timber joints and improper slopes leading to water stagnation have been found. The report implies that inappropriate use of service connections and changes in the flooring using stark modern material may have had a role in ruining the building.

The architectural splendour of the neighbouring Victoria Public Hall, built in 1888-1890, is also being restored at Rs 3.03 crore. "It will be completed by December-end. In addition, a light and sound show will be organised," Subramanian said.