Rafique Aziz
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar:
In a long-awaited move, the state's Department of Archaeology (DoA) is preparing to shift its office from the historic Sunehri Mahal (also known as Pahadsingh Mahal). The department's current office has been operating from the first floor of this heritage monument, but plans are now in place to establish a new, dedicated office outside the monument's grounds.
The DoA currently holds 13.5 acres of land, which includes 7.5 acres allocated by the Department of Revenue through the district collectorate, over four acres provided by Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University (Bamu), and the remaining portion is part of the DoA's original holdings. The Land Records office has completed the necessary survey and provided the official documents, including maps, for this vast land area, located at the base of the mountain range.
Jaya Wahane, assistant director of the Department of Archaeology, confirmed the development, saying, “We have geared up to set up our office. The land has been allocated for the Regional Museum, its administrative office, and the Assistant Director’s office. We’ve received all the required documents and maps from the Department of Land Records recently. Presently, we’ve applied to the tehsildar for the official mutation of this land into the DoA’s name. Once we receive the mutation letter, we will present a proposal for funding in the upcoming annual budget to protect the land.”
Boundary Wall to Be Constructed
To prevent unauthorised access and protect the land from trespassing and stray animals, the DoA plans to build a protective boundary wall. The estimated cost of the project is Rs 3.18 crore. The wall will stand 6 feet tall, with additional barbed wire fencing extending 2-3 feet above on iron rods.
Office Plans for the Next Budget
According to reliable sources, the detailed project report (DPR) for the new multi-storeyed office is currently being prepared. This includes the design, cost estimation, and other technical specifications. Once completed, the DPR will be submitted to the Directorate for approval, with plans to seek funding in the next annual budget.