The first ceiling collapse occurred in October during the Durga Puja holidays, sparing the museum’s artefacts.
The historic Institut de Chandernagor in Chandannagar, located in the renowned Dupleix Palace, has suffered significant structural issues as the false ceilings in two of its halls collapsed in recent weeks. Thankfully, visitors, including foreign tourists, avoided serious injury during these incidents.
This iconic building served as the residence of Joseph Francois Dupleix during his tenure as governor-general when Chandannagar was a French colony. It remains a crucial cultural site, hosting French language courses and a historical library alongside the museum.
The initial collapse took place in October amid the Durga Puja holidays when the facility was closed, allowing the artefacts to escape unscathed. However, a second incident occurred on November 26 in the central hall, coinciding with a busy afternoon of visitors.
“It was a crowded afternoon, with many visitors present, including numerous foreigners. A chunk of concrete suddenly fell onto the table where the handover of Chandannagar to India was signed. Fortunately, no one was injured, but the experience traumatized several visitors, who likely left with a negative impression of the museum’s upkeep,” stated Basabi Pal, the institute’s director since 2022.
Prof. Pal expressed relief that the debris damaged furniture rather than injuring a person, emphasizing the potential severity of the accidents. She has communicated her concerns to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), which is responsible for the building’s maintenance.
In response, an ASI official confirmed that conservation efforts are being planned. “Our team has assessed the site, and we have submitted a request for approval to Delhi. We will initiate conservation work once we receive the green light,” said Rajendra Yadav, a senior ASI official.
Prof. Pal has been vocal about the urgent need for repairs, stressing the potential risks of delaying actions that could lead to catastrophic consequences. “The sleepless nights I endure while witnessing the decline of this cherished museum are unbearable. Having dedicated my life to this institution, I feel powerless to protect our cultural heritage,” she lamented.
Additionally, she highlighted that the museum and its library, managed by the West Bengal government, are facing systemic neglect, notably lacking a librarian for the past 12 years.
Published – December 15, 2024 04:38 am IST
