The collapse of a shop in the 120-year-old Lansdowne building here on Saturday, which killed four persons, has raised concern over the safety of heritage buildings in the city.
The tragedy has reminded officials of the urgent need to find a solution to the water leakage in the glass roof of the durbar hall and seepage in small patches in a corner of the century-old Mysore Palace.
The seepage during the rainy season has forced the authorities to reach out to Central agencies for advice on its maintenance. There are also reports that media persons are denied entry into the flooded durbar hall during rains.
Palace Board officials have now decided to cover the leaking glass roof with plastic sheets during the Dasara celebrations, when the royal golden throne will be on display at the durbar hall.
Officials who replaced the damaged handmade glass pieces with plain ones worry that it has affected the beauty of the roof.
Palace Board Director Subramanya said they had approached the Regional Conservation Laboratory with glass samples to make a design that will suit the existing architecture. They have also invited expressions of interest from those who can replace the damaged glasses permanently.
He said there were plans to replace the roof tiles after consulting the Indian Institute of Science and National Institute of Engineering.
Steps were taken to identify weak areas to check seepage, and close windows to prevent moisture from entering the hall. “We have taken up restoration works as and when required,” he added.
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