CM inaugurates renovated town hall at Asiatic Library
MUMBAI: Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis inaugurated the recently renovated 180-year-old town hall at Asiatic Society Library on Sunday. The state government’s public works department (PWD) renovated the hall within six months. The refurbishment of its grand iconic steps is expected to be completed over six weeks.
In 2009, the state government identified heritage sites in the city that needed to be restored, and for which dedicated funds needed to be allocated. A committee headed by the city collector put the restoration of the Darbar and Town Hall and steps of the Asiatic Society on its priority list. The state government released a dedicated budget of Rs8.5 crore in two phases.
After inaugurating the hall, Fadnavis said it may leased out to filmmakers who wish to shoot there. “The renovated hall is another addition to this beautiful structure. The building attracts tourists, as well as members of the film industry. The building has featured in several international films. We can now think about permitting filmmakers to shoot inside the renovated hall on holidays,” Fadnavis said.
The PWD renovated the hall under the guidance of conservation architect Abha Narain Lambah. “The structure was in need of immediate repairs. We replaced the Burma teakwood imported from Myanmar, to keep the original structure intact. The restoration of the steps is underway and will be completed in about six weeks,” said CP Joshi, PWD secretary.