Mysuru's Fire Department Submits Rs 30 Crore Proposal for Mega Fire Station
The Department of Fire and Emergency Services in Mysuru has formally submitted a fresh proposal to the Karnataka state government, seeking approval for the construction of a mega fire station at Saraswathipuram. The ambitious project is estimated to cost Rs 30 crore, with officials anticipating fund allocation during the 2026-27 state budget presentation.
Budget Expectations and Official Confirmation
District Fire and Emergency Services Officer Gururaj confirmed to Times of India that the proposal includes plans for a new fire station and staff quarters, totaling Rs 30 crore. The department is hopeful that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will announce the allocation in his upcoming budget speech on Friday. Chamaraja MLA K Harishgowda expressed optimism, stating, "I'm hopeful the CM will announce fund allocation for the new fire station in his budget speech."
Heritage Concerns and Renovation Debate
The proposal has sparked a debate over heritage preservation. The existing fire station in Saraswathipuram, constructed by the Maharajas of Mysuru in 1898, is a century-old heritage structure currently in a dilapidated state. A part of the building collapsed recently due to heavy rainfall, highlighting its precarious condition.
Rangaraju, a former member of the district heritage committee and historian, argued against new construction, suggesting instead that the state government renovate the existing heritage structure. However, the renovation project has been stalled for six years due to objections from the district heritage committee over proposed changes to the heritage building.
Proposed Solution and Structural Inspections
The fresh proposal from the fire department aims to build a new structure based on the heritage model of the existing one, without demolishing the old edifice. This approach seeks to balance modern needs with historical preservation. Additionally, the century-old quarters built for 64 fire station personnel are also dilapidated, forcing staff to move to rented accommodations. The department has proposed constructing new staff quarters on the same premises.
A team of construction experts and officials from Mysuru City Corporation and the Public Works Department inspected the old structure and recommended constructing a new fire station along with staff quarters, despite the heritage committee's demand for renovation of the country-tiled roof in line with other heritage structures.
Broader Context and Implications
This development comes amid ongoing discussions about urban infrastructure and heritage conservation in Mysuru, a city known for its rich historical legacy. The proposed mega fire station represents a significant investment in public safety, while the heritage concerns underscore the challenges of modernizing historic sites. The outcome of the budget allocation will be closely watched by both safety advocates and heritage preservationists.
