Heritage glory of Mannaragudi police station restored a year after Gaja havoc

Weapons seized during the pre-independence period being preserved in the police station at Mannargudi in Tiruvarur district. M.Moorthy

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TIRUVARUR: Housed in a century-old heritage structure, Mannaragudi Police Station that was batterred by Gaja cyclone, has been given a makeover, thanks to voluntary contribution by the public.

The masonry structure made up of limestone was constructed in 1918. A portion of the structure suffered an extensive damage in the impact of Gaja cyclone. With the tiles blown away by the cyclone, the police station could use only a portion of the building. Since the policemen found it difficult to operate, particularly during rainy season, the department had recently began looking for rented building to shift the station.

Realising the need to restore the glory of the building, N. Rajendran, Inspector of Police, mooted an idea a few months ago to implement his idea with the voluntary contributions. It received instant support and as many as 20 persons contributed men and materials for renovation. Now, the structure wears an impressive appearance. In fact, it could be well be construed as a model station with the pleasing colours, lush lawn, sit outs for visitors and a mineral water dispenser with capacity to hold 1,500 litres. A few professionals were also involved in restoring the heritage trappings so as to make it look as much original as possible.

Pleased by the work done and the generous contribution of the public, C. Durai, Superintendent of Police, who inspected the station recently, appreciated the efforts.

“Had we moved out of the building, the structure would have faced complete ruin. It will now stand intact for a few more decades,” says Mr. Rajendran.

He said that a provision had been made in the renovated building to preserve the weapons seized by the police during British rule. Records indicate that Mannargudi police station was established in 1866 and it was shifted to the existing building in 1918. British police personnel were also worked in the station. Some of the weapons kept under preservation were more than 100 years old.

Karunanidhi, proprietor of SMT hotel, one of the contributors, said that the building was a pride of Mannargudi. It was a symbol of heritage and history. It was with the zeal to preserving the heritage that he teamed up with like-minded group that made the voluntary contribution.

EOM