Arts panel shield for modern buildings

Days after the Delhi Urban Arts Commission (DUAC) took up the cudgels for Delhi’s iconic structures such as Hall of Nations at Pragati Maidan, it has announced that no public buildings would undergo changes without consulting its original architect.

Days after the Delhi Urban Arts Commission (DUAC) took up the cudgels for Delhi’s iconic structures such as Hall of Nations at Pragati Maidan, it has announced that no public buildings would undergo changes without consulting its original architect.

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The arts panel has taken the step to protect buildings considered as examples of contemporary architecture and modern heritage (built after 1947) in view of the increasing trend to alter them.

Recently, there was a proposal to demolish the iconic Hall of Nations as part of the Pragati Maidan redevelopment plan. Earlier, Habib Rehman's Lalit Kala Akademi building was altered. “Our guideline aims to put a check on such alterations,” Raj Rewal, DUAC chairperson said.

DUAC said: “With a view to retain the aesthetic quality of the environment, all existing public buildings need to be maintained properly with due respect and intent of the original architect. The consent of the original architect is important to be taken in case of changes .”

"To start with, the proponent and/or owner of proposals that come to us would be asked to give an affidavit that they will not make any changes without consulting the architect," Rewal said.