Revamp of BMC’s ENT hospital nears completion

The building, located at the junction of Maharshi Dadhichi Marg and Mahatma Gandhi Marg at Fort, is a G+2 load bearing structure with a composite flat slab and has part Mangalore-tiled sloping timber roofs and part flat terrace.

Two types of stones have been used in the ashlan masonry — Malad and Porbunder stone. The northern and western facade show typical Gothic Motifs used in the form of arches, windows, finials, porches and stained glass.

“The (demolished) towers were part of the skyline of this important street…hence they were a key to re-instating the lost heritage value,” said architect Rahul Chemburkar, whose firm has been appointed by the BMC for the restoration. “In the current scenario, using the original material wasn’t ideal due to its constraints. Structural steel and glass-reinforced concrete (GRC) have been used here, which makes the new construction lightweight, yet retains the facade elements.”

Phase 1 of the restoration was undertaken from 2009-11, whereas the second phase, which includes revamping of the external and internal facade, as well as interiors, began from 2017.

“80 per cent of the work is now complete,” an official from the heritage department said.