When Amba Vilas palace is in its centenary year, the department of archaeology’s efforts to take back the reins of the architectural wonder still remains to be addressed.
A year ago, the office of director, department of archaeology had made an effort seeking the administration of the palace. A letter had been sent in this regard to the chief secretary, department of personnel administration and reforms (DPAR), but to no avail.
According to sources, alleged political lobby is coming in the way of archaeology department’s attempts.
The Amba Vilas Palace, as it’s popularly known as among the palaces in the city, was earlier in the control of the department of archaeology, till the government decided to form a separate board and hand over its administration in 2001.
The department of archaeology has had long record of maintaining the palace since 1976. The director of archaeology was the head, besides assistant director in the cadre of tahsildar.
It was only when P V Awaradhi took over the reins, the post of assistant director was upgraded to that of deputy director and still remains the same.
You may be wondering, after a decade of change in guard, why the archaeology department is evincing interest in taking over the famed Palace. It’s alleged that the palace board is ruining the place of historical significance according to its whims and fancies.
The finestexample is that of roads within the precincts of the palace decorated with inter-lock tiles.
Road
Earlier, the roads were maintained with gravel and jelly stones, keeping in view the imposing beauty of the palace. Besides, no changes were made to the existing buildings — both exterior and interior thus maintaining the status-quo.
In contrast to this, the incumbent deputy director of the Palace Board has renovated the chamber spending a huge sum.
The palace built in the year 1912, completes 100 years of its existence this year. The state government in its recent budget announced an allocation of Rs 25 crore, to make the celebration a memorable occasion.
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