A number of buildings that dot the cityscape date back a few centuries and stand testimony to the rich cultural past of Chennai. But, many of them continue to be poorly maintained and vulnerable to damage.
The recent spate of fire accidents, including at Humayun Mahal in Chepauk Palace, the Indo-Sarcenic building on Rajaji Salai housing State Bank of India’s main branch and Government Central Press on Mint Street, have brought into focus the condition of these historical structures.
According to sources in the Tamil Nadu Fire and Rescue Services, the primary cause for fires in heritage structures is build-up of unwanted objects, including paper, broken furniture and plastic material.
“Inside Humayun Mahal, there is still a lot of rusting machinery, papers and wires that may cause more fire accidents,” said a TNFRS fireman
He also expressed concern over the stability of the structure post the fire-fighting measures, as raging flames and the water sprayed to extinguish them could cause irreparable damage to historic buildings.
Several old government buildings, like courts, still continue to stock old papers. Structural engineers said, unlike modern buildings, these structures, made of brick and wood, are more vulnerable to collapse due to the passage of time. Simple periodical checks to test the wooden beams that support the structure as well as the electrical wiring could avert major accidents, they said.
Experts suggest that the State government must prioritise fire safety in maintenance funds. S. Sivaraman, former engineer-in-chief, Public Works Department (PWD), said colonial-era buildings have some facilities like ventilation but are improperly used. “Old electrical wires that are not checked often cause fire accidents. Circuit breakers must be installed along with fire-safety equipment. Periodical housekeeping is also necessary,” he said.
In a bid to ensure safety of colonial structures, the department will launch a drive to inspect existing heritage structures across the State. PWD officials said once the report is submitted in a week, estimates would be prepared to prioritise repair works.
After all, Madras’ character is defined by these buildings, and as residents we would want them to be standing.
