Two heritage buildings in Chennai: the time-worn Oriental Research Institute on Kamarajar Salai and a century-old structure belonging to the Chennai Port Authority: are set to be restored. The Public Works Department’s Building Centre and Conservation Division, which specialises in heritage conservation, will execute the renovation projects in a few months.

The department has invited bids for carrying out the two projects to restore the buildings back to their original shape.

The stately red brick building with stone pillars on the facade houses the Oriental Research Institute in the Marina campus of Madras University. Built in 1935 as the University Examination Hall, the two-storey building is now used as offices and departments of classical and vernacular languages. Officials of the PWD noted that 50% of the building, which is a combination of red bricks, stone and reinforced concrete, has suffered damage over the decades. The steel columns covered in brick work have corroded.

Citing the Justice E.Padmanabhan Committee report, the officials said spread over 27,881 sq.ft., the structure is modern in composition and has reinforced cement concrete on its roof.

The Rs.19 crore work would include replacing cracked stone pillars with eight new stone column pillars and reconstruction of brick and stone masonry walls, said S.Alwin Gnansehar, superintending engineer, BCCD, PWD.

The 104-year old Hydraulic Powerhouse structure also called as ‘Stone Building’ at Chennai Port area is up for renovation after many years. Officials said the pre-independence era structure, which is spread over nearly 5,974 sq.ft., is now being used as an electricity substation. The rectangular building with a provision for chimney too has suffered 50% of damage particularly Madras Terrace roof. The plastering in the interior walls has peeled off and wooden doors and windows have to be replaced.

The Chennai Port Authority has entrusted ₹5.25 crore to PWD to execute the restoration project. Once the heritage structure is restored, the Chennai Port Authority plans to establish a maritime museum to boost tourism.

Sunil Paliwal, Chairperson, Chennai Port Authority, said it was one of the oldest buildings in the Chennai port. There are plans to set up a maritime museum showcasing maritime heritage dating back to Cholas and Pallavas era. This would add to the monuments, including old two-tonne anchor and other attractions like the port signal station, which witnesses a stream of visitors, including students.

With the Cordelia cruises planning to extend its operations to entire year instead of current four-month schedule in Chennai port, passengers would also be taken a tour to museum. The PWD will also soon take up restoration of the old Harbour station at a cost of ₹4.9 crore, Mr.Paliwal said.