01-07-2025
Bandstand in Lalbagh dismantled for restoration
Bandstand, the iconic wooden structure in Lalbagh Botanical Garden with a history of over 150 years, has now been dismantled, months after the structure developed cracks due to weather factors.
An expert committee chaired by environmentalist A.N. Yellappa Reddy has been constituted by the Horticulture Department to oversee the restoration and renovation work of the structure. The committee also consists of officials from the Horticulture Department, Public Works Department (PWD), Karnataka Shilpakala Academy, Department of Archaeology, Museums and Heritage and scientists from the Institute of Wood Science and Technology (IWST), among others.
'As it is a structure with historical importance, we are conducting its restoration in almost the same way ancient temples are restored. The structure has currently been dismantled by the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) as per the recommendations of the Expert Committee, which met three times. Every piece that has been removed is being numbered for reference,' Ramesh D.S., director, Horticulture Department, told The Hindu.
The experts from IWST and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) will visit Lalbagh to bifurcate the dismantled wood into 'usable' and 'unusable' categories. 'They will conduct several tests, like the pressure test, among others, and decide which pieces can be used again. Based on their observations, they will give us an estimate of how much teak wood and other materials are necessary for the restoration, which will then be submitted to the directorate and the Horticulture Minister for approval,' said another senior official from the Horticulture Department.
The Bandstand in Lalbagh was set up by the British in 1870 and has since hosted many military and police bands that played there. Consisting of wooden pillars, a seating area, and an artistic roof, the wooden structure was restored in 2004.
By August 15
Mr. Reddy, who chairs the expert committee, said the work on the Bandstand is expected to finish by August 15 in time for the Independence Day flower show. The area surrounding it has currently been cordoned off to the public to avoid injuries or any mishaps.
'As the restoration is a technical process and requires procurement of specific materials, the work might take longer than we expect. As of now, we plan to have it ready by August 15. Even if that is not possible, we will try to finish it in the best time possible,' Mr. Reddy said.
When asked what will be done to preserve the heritage of the Bandstand while restoring it, he said, 'We will incorporate new materials only wherever it is necessary for durability purposes. As Lalbagh is a place frequented by many, like regular walkers, flower show visitors, and even miscreants who might try to tamper with the structure, we need to ensure that the restored Bandstand will be foolproof.'
