Rewriting history: Mamata Banerjee bids adieu to iconic Writers' Building, inaugurates new Secretariat in Howrah
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
The newly built 14-storied HRBC building in Howrah will now be the new seat of power in Bengal. The entire administration, including the Chief Minister's office (CMO) and 11 other departments have been shifted to the new complex.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who had announced the decision in August, formally inaugurated the new complex by hoisting the triclour and received a guard of honour on the occasion. The new complex has been christened 'Nabanna' or 'new harvest' by Mamata herself
On August 7, the government had announced its decision to shift the secretariat as the historic Writer's Building was in dire need for restoration and renovation.
"Repeated expansions and additions over the years have made the Writers' building unsafe. It has turned into a tinderbox because of unplanned constructions. I want to ensure safety of my employees," Mamata had told reporters after making the announcement in August.
In recent times, there have been several small incidents of fire at the secretariat and experts feel a complete overhaul is necessary. A team of experts have already been appointed to carry out the project.
The iconic building that has been the seat of power for several decades was constructed in the early 18th century and the restoration project is estimated to cost around Rs.200 crore.
While external facade of the building will remain exactly the same, all internal constructions that were added post independence, to give space to new departments, will be demolished.
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