This is an archive article published on December 24, 2024
Maharashtra govt to appoint testing firm to oversee new Shivaji statue’s construction
The independent testing agency is being appointed to ensure that there is no repeat of the statue collapse incident that left the state government red-faced in August.
The construction of the new statue will be undertaken by Ram Sutar Art Creations Pvt Ltd, which built the Statue of Unity in Gujarat. (Representational/File Photo)
The Maharashtra government, which was left red-faced after a 35-ft-tall statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji collapsed at Rajkot Fort in Malvan in Maharashtra’s Sindhudurg district earlier this year, is set to appoint an independent testing agency to monitor the building of a new statue of the Maratha king.
The contract to build a new 60-ft Shivaji statue at a cost of over Rs 20 crore has been awarded to renowned sculptor Ram Sutar and his son Anil’s firm Ram Sutar Art Creations Pvt Ltd, which built the Statue of Unity in Gujarat.
“We have invited proposals from eligible agencies for quality control and testing services, from concept to commissioning of the statue. The agency will prepare detailed reports of all tests and inspections. These reports will be submitted to the Public Works Department (PWD) on a regular basis, documenting the progress of the reconstruction and any issues that may need attention. If any quality-related issues are identified, the agency is responsible to recommend appropriate corrective action and work with the PWD to ensure these measures are implemented,” a PWD official said.
The firm will be provided a space within the Rajkot Fort premises for setting up a laboratory. “Once operational, the on-site laboratory will conduct daily testing of all materials used in the reconstruction, including concrete, steel, masonry etc. This will allow for immediate feedback and corrections, ensuring materials meet the required specifications,” he added.
The agency’s responsibilities will cover all aspects of quality assurance, ensuring compliance with Indian Standard (IS) codes, and providing regular feedback on the materials and methods employed during the project. This will include the testing of construction materials, monitoring the construction process, ensuring the durability of the statue and reporting on quality metrics to ensure that the work is carried out to the highest standards.
According to officials, the testing firm will conduct daily testing of construction materials and ensure they meet the specifications outlined in IS codes. The agency will also carry out regular on-site inspections and will also be responsible for performing non-destructive testing to assess the structural integrity of the materials and ensure that they are durable enough for long-term use without acquiring damage during evaluation.
The PWD official said that the firm is being appointed to ensure that there is no repeat of the statue collapse incident.
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The collapse of the Shivaji statue on August 26, almost seven months after it was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in December 2023, had triggered a massive political slugfest in the state.
A joint technical committee led by the Indian Navy and comprising representatives from the Maharashtra government along with technical experts was set up to investigate the collapse of the statue. A report submitted by the committee found that factors such as a rusted structure, faulty design, poor maintenance and poor welding led to the collapse.
Vallabh Ozarkar is a Senior Correspondent with The Indian Express' Mumbai bureau, recognized as an authoritative and deeply knowledgeable voice on the politics, governance, and infrastructure of Maharashtra. With more than nine years of experience in major news organizations, his reporting delivers high standards of Expertise and Trustworthiness.
Expertise & Authority
Current Role: Senior Correspondent, The Indian Express, Mumbai bureau.
Geographical Specialization: Provides exclusive and detailed coverage of Maharashtra politics and governance, operating at the epicenter of the state's decision-making in Mumbai.
Core Authority: His reporting demonstrates deep Expertise across critical and often complex state matters, including:
Political Dynamics: In-depth analysis of the ruling coalition (Mahayuti) and opposition (MVA), internal party conflicts, and crucial election updates, including local body polls and municipal corporation tussles.
Governance & Policy: Focused coverage on significant state policies, such as the overhaul of Mumbai's 'pagdi system' (rent control for old buildings) and social welfare schemes (e.g., Ladki Bahin Yojana accountability).
Infrastructure & Development: Reports on major urban and regional infrastructure projects, including the Mumbai Water Metro, Uttan-Virar Sea Link, and Thane Metro development.
Administrative Oversight: Follows legislative actions, cabinet decisions, and reports on issues of accountability and alleged fraud within state departments.
Experience
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Career Foundation: Prior to The Indian Express, Vallabh contributed to other major metropolitan news outlets, including the Mumbai Mirror and DNA - Daily News & Analysis, providing a solid foundation in rigorous urban and political journalism.
Evidence of Impact: His work consistently breaks down complex political developments and administrative failures, such as exposing discrepancies in government welfare schemes, cementing his reputation as a trusted source for ground-level, impactful news from Maharashtra.
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