MAPUSA
The State government has approved a consultancy contract worth Rs 86 lakh for IIT Madras to undertake a fresh technical assessment of the repair works carried out at Kala Academy and recommend measures to enhance the longevity of the iconic structure.
Principal Chief Engineer (PWD) Sandip Chodnekar said IIT Madras will begin the consultancy assignment from August 1, alongside corrective works to be undertaken under the project's defect liability period.
Unlike its earlier peer review, which involved non-destructive testing to assess whether the renovation works had been executed properly, the new consultancy will focus on evaluating the effectiveness and expected lifespan of the repairs already carried out.
"IIT Madras will examine how long the repair works undertaken are likely to last and suggest advanced techniques or methods that can further enhance the life of the structure," Chodnekar said.
He added that experts from the institute would inspect the entire Kala Academy complex and submit a detailed report on remedial measures.
Among the options likely to be examined is the use of cathodic protection systems and other modern engineering interventions aimed at improving the durability of the repaired structure and preventing future deterioration.
"The institute will assess the repairs undertaken, determine their expected life and recommend ways to strengthen and improve them further," Chodnekar said.
The decision follows recommendations made by the State-appointed Kala Academy Task Force, which last week announced that corrective work on the main auditorium would commence from August 1.
Chodnekar said the entire Kala Academy renovation project remains under the Bill of Quantities (BOQ) and defect liability provisions. Repair works covered under the original contract will be carried out by the existing contractor at no additional cost to the government.
"We are going to get repaired whatever falls under the defect liability period through the existing contractor. If any work is found necessary beyond the BOQ, it will be tendered separately," he said.
The PCE also said the task force has shortlisted three consultants for specialised works relating to the auditorium's lighting and sound systems.
On the possibility of additional expenditure, Chodnekar said any new recommendations made by the task force that are outside the scope of the original contract would have financial implications.
Meanwhile, reconstruction of the Open Air Auditorium, whose roof had collapsed, will be taken up separately.
Architect Rajan Bhise will coordinate with the Charles Correa Foundation on remedial assessments for the structure.
"Separate estimates will be prepared and a separate tender process will be undertaken. This is not a repair job but a complete reconstruction," Chodnekar said.
