Mysuru’s Neglected Arch: A Call for Urgent Conservation Efforts

The arch of the Government Guest House at Nazarbad in Mysuru, a city known for its rich heritage, stands in a deplorable state, neglected by authorities. Situated in the heart of Mysuru, this century-old relic is now isolated, separated from the Guest House’s compound wall due to road widening efforts in 2019.

Once a symbol of grandeur, the arch now bears the signs of decay. Cracks mar its once-solid walls, and flaking concrete reveals the underlying bricks, a testament to the apathetic stance of the authorities. The situation is further aggravated by the burrows created by rodents, posing a serious risk of collapse, especially during heavy rainfall. It is imperative that immediate action is taken to safeguard this invaluable piece of heritage before it is too late.

Despite some minor efforts to remove weeds and shrubs around the structure, little progress has been made in its conservation. The decision to install iron grills, while neglecting other necessary preservation measures, raises questions about the priorities of the authorities. This state of neglect contradicts Mysuru’s esteemed reputation as a ‘Heritage City’.

Notably, the arch is not the only heritage structure suffering from neglect. The Lansdowne Building, Devaraja Market, and the Fire Station at Saraswathipuram share similar fates, highlighting a lack of unified vision for preserving Mysuru’s architectural heritage. Urgent action and cohesive decision-making are necessary to prevent the irreversible loss of these cultural treasures.

A comprehensive report, recommending urgent conservation efforts, was submitted to the Mysuru City Corporation (MCC) by the Heritage Experts Committee. However, the progress on these crucial conservation works remains stagnant within the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA). This lack of proactive measures by the authorities puts Mysuru’s architectural heritage at risk.

Swift and decisive action must be taken to translate the recommendations into tangible conservation efforts. The neglect of Mysuru’s arch and other heritage structures must come to an end, preserving the city’s rich history for future generations. It is time for the relevant authorities to prioritize the preservation of Mysuru’s invaluable architectural heritage.

FAQ on the Neglect of Heritage Structures in Mysuru

Q: What is the current state of the arch at the Government Guest House in Mysuru?
A: The arch is in a deplorable state, with cracks and flaking concrete, due to neglect by authorities.

Q: What risks does the arch face?
A: The arch faces a serious risk of collapse, especially during heavy rainfall, because of the burrows created by rodents.

Q: Have any preservation efforts been made for the arch?
A: Some minor efforts to remove weeds and shrubs around the structure have been made, but little progress has been made in its conservation.

Q: Why are iron grills being installed instead of other necessary preservation measures?
A: The decision to install iron grills raises questions about the authorities’ priorities in preserving the arch.

Q: Are other heritage structures in Mysuru also suffering from neglect?
A: Yes, the Lansdowne Building, Devaraja Market, and the Fire Station at Saraswathipuram are also neglected, showing a lack of vision for preserving Mysuru’s architectural heritage.

Q: What recommendations were made by the Heritage Experts Committee?
A: A comprehensive report recommending urgent conservation efforts was submitted to the Mysuru City Corporation (MCC) by the Heritage Experts Committee.

Q: What is the progress on the conservation works recommended in the report?
A: The progress on the conservation works remains stagnant within the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA).

Q: What risks does the lack of proactive measures pose to Mysuru’s architectural heritage?
A: The lack of proactive measures by the authorities puts Mysuru’s architectural heritage at risk of irreversible loss.

Q: What action is needed to preserve Mysuru’s heritage structures?
A: Swift and decisive action is needed to translate the recommendations into tangible conservation efforts and prioritize the preservation of Mysuru’s invaluable architectural heritage.

Definitions:
– Arch: A curved structure that spans an open space, often supporting the weight of other structures above it.
– Heritage: Cultural, historical, or natural significance inherited from past generations.
– Neglect: Failure to care for or pay attention to something, leading to deterioration or damage.

Suggested related links:
Mysuru Heritage
Mysuru City Corporation
Mysuru Urban Development Authority