TEAM HERALD
PONDA: The Ponda Municipal Council (PMC) is expected to take a decision on the deplorable condition of the library hall complex on April 24.
The building, which is about 50 years old, has staged many cultural programmes in its Shastri hall, but the hall has been closed since the last few years due to a deterioration of the building.
The building houses shops on the ground floor, while the municipal library is located on the first floor.
The plaster has also been falling off from the staircase and library gallery, while the condition in the Shastri hall is no different, as the steel framework of the slab, which is completely corroded, is visible.
When contacted, library incharge Ulhas Kumar said he has already informed the PMC chief officer on March 23, 2011, and January 21, 2013, regarding the deteriorating condition of the library hall.
Regular visitors to the building have expressed concern that the ceiling could collapse at any moment.
“The condition of the building is dangerous and the government should not waste time in constructing a new building in its place,” remarked a senior citizen, Shivnath Nageshkar.
When contacted, PMC Chairperson Radhika Naik said PMC had passed a resolution that the structural committee of the PWD would inspect the dilapidated building.
“The committee inspected the building and suggested that it can be put to use after carrying out full repairs of the building. But the council is not satisfied with the recommendation, as it does not suggest how much cost will be incurred to carry out repairs and how long it will be the life of the renovated structure,” said Naik.
“There is also a possibility that the repair work may cost more than constructing a new building. We will take up the issue of repairs or reconstruction in the council meeting on April 24. If PMC is in favour of new construction, we will send the proposal to the government,” added Naik.
