IIT Roorkee Expert Team Inspects Devaraja Market and Lansdowne Building in Mysuru: 1 memorable moment

The visit by the IIT Roorkee expert team has sparked renewed interest in the structural and heritage conservation of Mysuru’s iconic buildings. Local historians note that Devaraja Market and the Lansdowne building are not just functional spaces but also cultural landmarks, reflecting the city’s colonial and pre-independence history. Devaraja Market, in particular, has been the economic lifeline for generations of traders, while the Lansdowne building stands as a testimony to administrative architecture of the British era. Experts stress that ensuring structural safety should go hand in hand with preserving these buildings’ cultural significance.

At Devaraja Market, engineers focused on critical areas such as roofing slabs, wooden supports, and masonry joints that show signs of wear and tear. The bustling nature of the market adds additional stress to the structure, making maintenance a complex task. Traders expressed hope that the inspection would lead to practical interventions, such as reinforcement of beams, waterproofing measures, and modernization of electrical and plumbing systems, without disrupting the historic character of the building or halting daily commerce.

The Lansdowne building, housing several government offices, is under scrutiny due to cracks in walls and aging timber components. Structural engineers examined foundations, wall integrity, and potential load-bearing weaknesses. Given the building’s colonial-era construction techniques, the team is paying special attention to preserving original architectural features while proposing modern safety solutions. Officials indicated that repair measures would be designed to comply with contemporary building codes while respecting heritage requirements.

IIT Roorkee’s team also employed advanced structural assessment tools, including ground-penetrating radar, laser scanning, and vibration analysis, to map the integrity of both buildings comprehensively. These technologies allow precise identification of weak points and areas requiring immediate attention, enabling planners to prioritize interventions. According to the engineers, such data-driven inspections are crucial for balancing safety, functionality, and heritage conservation.

Local authorities emphasized that public safety is the foremost priority. The city’s urban planning department noted that similar inspections will eventually be conducted for other heritage buildings across Mysuru to prevent accidents and ensure continuity of cultural heritage. Officials also highlighted the need for integrating regular maintenance schedules and early warning systems to mitigate future structural risks.

Traders at Devaraja Market are particularly concerned about the impact of renovation work on their businesses. Many have urged authorities to implement phased restoration plans to allow uninterrupted trading. Municipal officials reassured the traders that work would be planned meticulously to minimize disruption, including scheduling construction during off-peak hours and providing temporary support structures where necessary.

Heritage conservationists have welcomed the IIT Roorkee initiative, noting that many of Mysuru’s historic buildings suffer from neglect and lack of systematic maintenance. They advocate for a heritage management policy that includes periodic structural audits, training for local engineers in conservation techniques, and community participation in preservation efforts. Such measures, they argue, are essential for long-term sustainability of the city’s architectural legacy.

The IIT team also discussed the importance of material conservation in both buildings. For Devaraja Market, this includes the careful treatment of wooden beams, restoration of traditional brickwork, and preservation of decorative elements. In the Lansdowne building, attention is being paid to maintaining original stonework and ornamental features while ensuring structural reinforcements are discreet and compatible with the historic aesthetic.

Officials pointed out that environmental factors, such as seasonal rains and high humidity, have accelerated wear and tear in these structures. Water seepage, erosion, and termite damage were identified as recurring issues in both buildings. Engineers proposed immediate interventions to control moisture levels, treat affected wood and masonry, and improve drainage around the foundations to prevent future structural deterioration.

The expert team emphasized the need for continuous monitoring post-restoration. Installing sensors to track movement, load, and vibration can help detect early signs of structural stress. This proactive approach would allow authorities to carry out timely maintenance before problems escalate, reducing risks for occupants, traders, and visitors.

Funding for the inspection and subsequent restoration projects is expected to come from a combination of state government allocations, heritage conservation grants, and potential public-private partnerships. Officials highlighted that investment in structural safety is crucial not just for preservation but also for promoting Mysuru as a safe, heritage-friendly tourist destination, which contributes significantly to the city’s economy.

Community engagement was another key discussion point during the visit. Local residents and traders were encouraged to participate in conservation planning, report structural issues, and support restoration initiatives. Experts stressed that heritage preservation is a shared responsibility and that long-term success depends on active involvement of those who live, work, and interact with these historic spaces daily.

The IIT Roorkee team also provided preliminary recommendations for emergency preparedness. They suggested developing evacuation plans, fire safety measures, and structural reinforcements in high-traffic areas to ensure the safety of the public during any unforeseen incidents. Officials acknowledged that such measures are particularly important in Devaraja Market due to its daily footfall of thousands of shoppers.

Urban planners pointed out that Mysuru’s growing population and increasing urban pressures require integrating heritage conservation into broader city development plans. Ensuring that markets, historic buildings, and public spaces remain structurally sound while accommodating modern needs is a complex challenge that requires careful planning, policy support, and continuous expert input.

The inspection has also reignited discussions about modernizing infrastructure without compromising heritage value. For instance, electrical wiring, plumbing, and sanitation systems in both buildings are outdated and pose safety risks. Engineers suggested retrofitting these utilities in ways that are minimally invasive and reversible, maintaining the original architecture while ensuring compliance with contemporary safety standards.

Heritage activists believe that the IIT Roorkee initiative could serve as a model for other cities with colonial-era infrastructure. They argue that combining modern engineering techniques with community participation and government support can help preserve cultural identity while safeguarding public safety, ensuring that historic urban landscapes remain vibrant and functional for future generations.

Finally, officials confirmed that the IIT Roorkee team will submit a comprehensive report with detailed findings, risk assessments, and phased recommendations for restoration and safety improvements. Municipal authorities indicated that action plans based on this report will be prioritized in the coming months, signaling a proactive approach toward preserving Mysuru’s historic and economic landmarks while ensuring the well-being of the public who rely on these structures daily.