Pondicherry Heritage Buildings To Be Restored

Presenting the budget of 2014-15, Chief Minister N. Rangasamy proposed that the government has decided to renovate 18 government owned heritage buildings in Puducherry at the estimated cost of Rs. 80 crores. The 18 buildings that have been identified for this project include the Old Light House, V.O.C. School, Pensionnat De Jeunes Filles, Soucilabai School, Government Hospital, Head post office and Indian Coffee House among others.

Puducherry being a city with a fusion of European and ancient Indian culture has many of its buildings reflecting the blend of two rich cultures in its architecture. All the buildings proposed for renovation are either located near the Promenade Beach or in the government sector of the town and hence once they are refurbished, the skyline of the town is sure to get aesthetically more appealing.

The government has also began the process of preparing a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for two museums by Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH).

According to a report by The Hindu, Ashok Panda, co-convener of INTACH said, “We are happy to learn that the Chief Minister has proposed in the Puducherry budget the restoration of the government heritage buildings at a cost of Rs. 80 crore. It is important because the government is leading by example and heritage preservation in Puducherry has gained a renewed focus. The work on the renovation of Bharathiyar Memorial Museum is progressing well. We will also be preparing the DPR for two government museums’’.

The government has also proposed plans to promote tourism in Puducherry for which Rs. 65.50 crores have been allocated in the budget. A website has been launched for the same along with 360 degree media campaigns. A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed by the Govt. Of Puducherry with Ille-et-Vilaine, a region in France for promotion of tourism.

Other initiatives announced in the budget also include development of Thirukameswarar kovil, Villianur and eco-beach resorts in Puducherry along with development of the Rock Beach. With the new plans that are expected to come into action soon, Puducherry is all set to get a face-lift.