The tragic collapse of a 107-year-old dilapidated building housing Maharani’s Science College for Women on Tuesday, which claimed a life, has reignited the debate over the future of public heritage buildings in Mysuru. While some residents and public representatives advocate for demolishing these structures due to the lack of government funding for their preservation, conservation experts strongly oppose this view, stressing the cultural value these buildings hold.
Citizens and heritage advocates argue that these historic buildings are a symbol of Mysuru’s legacy and pride as a Heritage City. However, activists highlight the state and central government’s failure to implement timely conservation and restoration efforts, leading to the rapid deterioration of these vintage structures.
City resident and activist Gayatri KC said, “This incident must be an eye-opener for all stakeholders. If the government can’t fund conservation works, it’s time to demolish buildings that pose a danger to public safety.” She called on government agencies to take action before more innocent lives are lost.
Chamaraja MLA K Harishgowda voiced his support for demolition, suggesting that buildings like Devaraja Market and Lansdowne Building should be rebuilt using the same materials and style, as long as public safety is ensured.
On the other hand, heritage experts, including NS Rangaraju, a member of the Heritage Committee, pointed to improper demolition procedures as the cause of the tragedy. He emphasized that heritage structures require specialized methods for demolition, which were not followed in this case. Rangaraju highlighted successful conservation projects, like the Government Guest House and Jayalakshmi Vilas Mansion, as examples of how heritage buildings can be preserved with proper funding and expertise.
Rangaraju further stressed that Mysuru’s heritage city status, declared in 2004, should prioritize conservation efforts, not demolition.
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