By Our Reporter
Shillong: Keeping intact the heritage appearance which still stands testimony to its long history, the newly renovated Durbar Hall of the Shillong Raj Bhavan was inaugurated by Governor RS Mooshahary in the presence of Chief Minister Dr Mukul Sangma and other ministers and officials here on Saturday.
The Durbar Hall, which has been the venue for Legislative Council meets and swearing-in ceremonies for many years, has been completely renovated and restructured after it had become ‘timeworn’ and unsafe. Two clearstory spires, teak-paneled walls, polished wooden floors and a bigger stage are new additions to the 108-year-old structure.
During his inaugural speech, Mooshahary highlighted the history of the Raj Bhavan since its inception. He further stated that the heritage building needs constant care and attention to maintain its beauty. He also lauded the hard work and efforts put in by the Finance department and PWD for their prompt action.
The renovation work at the Raj Bhavan Durbar Hall, which is the epitome of protocol and ceremonial in the state, began last year.
“When we came here in 2008, we saw that there were many things which were required to be done,” Mooshahary said.
He said two kitchens were found to be unsuitable for use while a 100-year old leaking water tank had to be removed. “It took four years for all the renovation works, including that of the Durbar Hall to complete and the entire exercise was done by the state PWD”, he added.
The Governor also informed that he had commissioned water harvesting facilities and proper drainage system in the historic Raj Bhavan while informing that within two years, a 30KW solar power panel will also be installed.
“This solar panel will cater to 50 per cent of our requirements during peak season and about 80 per cent during the lean season”, he said.
Turning to the history of the age-old building, Mooshahary said the Raj Bhavan was the Chief Commissioner’s residency from 1874-97 after Shillong was chosen as the capital of the administration on the formation of Assam as a Chief Commissioner’s Province in 1874.
In 1897, the Raj Bhavan was razed to the ground by a massive earthquake but it was rebuilt in 1903, and completed in 1905. With Meghalaya getting bifurcated from Assam in 1972 and Shillong becoming the capital of Meghalaya, a new Raj Bhavan had to be constructed for Assam, at its new state capital in Guwahati.
Meanwhile, Mooshah-ary also welcomed members of the public to visit the heritage building especially during Independence and Republic Day.
Chief Minister Dr Mukul Sangma also lauded the beauty of the heritage building and underlined the need to maintain it from time to time.
“The unique blend of modern and antique designs incorporated in it is praise worthy,” said Dr Sangma adding that he looks forward to many events to be hosted in the newly renovated Durbar Hall.