Date:31/01/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/01/31/stories/2008013151130300.htm

Andhra Pradesh

Centenary fete of Collector’s office

Staff Reporter

The building is a masterpiece of European-style architecture

Kakinada: Few structures can endure the ravages of time, such as this masterpiece of the European style architecture. It’s a reminder of the British rule, which inspires awe for its elegance and quality.

The East Godavari District Collector’s office is the major landmark of this port town which has just completed 100 years of its existence. Centenary celebrations are being organised by the district administration for three days starting February 1 to mark the occasion.

The cornerstone of this building was laid on December 4, 1903 by Lord Ampthill. who was the then Governor of Madras.

It came to be known as the ‘Collector’s New Cutchery’ for it was where the District Magistrate used to interact with the people.

The building was constructed at a cost of Rs 1,59,832 as per the records available with the Roads and Buildings Department.

The foundation is of stone masonry work and the building was constructed with stone and lime mortar.

The height of the structure is 9.5 metres, plinth area 21,004 square feet and length 280 feet. Subsequent additions were made to the main structure as and when required, giving it the present shape and expanse.

Neoclassical style

According to District Collector M Subrahmanyam, the Collector’s New Cutchery was built in the neoclassical style which is purely functional and utilitarian in nature. It is located close to the Dutch style Court Building. The land was donated by the royal family of Pithapuram and the building gave a distinct identity to the town.

Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage convener L Seshu Kumari said the building plan, layout of the rooms, spaciousness and circulation area are classic examples of the British architecture.

The building has two floors with Madras terrace roof for the ground floor and pitched tile roof at the top. Solid natural stone was used for columns and walls.

Quake-poof

The application of bonds in masonry and use of lime mortar are highly technical and qualitative. Because of the wedge type of bonding, the building can endure the impact of earthquakes.