PWD Heritage Wing waits for CMDA funds to renovate Presidency College principal bungalow

The college approached the PWD to restore the building and the total cost of renovating the principal’s bungalow is Rs 10 crore.

“The fund has to be provided by the CMDA. But they are waiting for the order from the government housing department. Once the funds are provided, we will start the renovation works soon. After renovating the building, the college might use it as a museum, principal quarters or bungalow,” said C Kalyanasundaram, Superintendent Engineer, PWD – Heritage wing.

“The printing press will be renovated which includes refitting Madras terrace, Mughal plastering and strengthening the brick foundation,” he added.

The official also said that the building will be renovated in traditional methods to add more strength to the construction of the heritage building.

“We use only materials like limestone, river sand, and good quality bricks. We avoid using steel and cement as it will damage the building whereas the use of traditional material will ensure that the building strength will last for more than 200 years,” said Kalyanasundaram.

The department is yet to start renovating the 136-year-old George Town building in Rajaji Salai for which a sanction of Rs 9 crore has been made. However, sources indicate that the work will be taken up this month.