BMC gets nod for heritage project

Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) received approval from the Mumbai Heritage Conservation Committee (MHCC) to undertake the Rs 1.25-crore restoration project for Flora Fountain. Reports suggest that the civic body would begin work on the landmark heritage structure in the city before May. It is said to be preparing tender for the project and it would take four months for all the approvals to come. The restoration plan also includes provision of a public plaza around the iconic structure where people can meet. According to the approved plan, the present landscaped area with the fountain and Hutatma Smarak will be demarcated to give the fountain an independent identity. A new railing will be constructed around the periphery and the remaining area, including the current parking lot, will be paved with cobblestones to create a central square for people. In his report to the Heritage Committee, Dilawari identified the original water engineering as the root cause for decay. He said in addition to other changes made to the fountain over time, the original level of its first platform was three inches higher than what it is now, with water draining out from its spouts.