PWD is all set to restore the 119-year-old iconic administrative building of the Madras Veterinary College, Vepery in Chennai

The 119-year-old administration building of the Madras Veterinary College, Vepery, is about to undergo restoration by the Public Works Department (PWD), adding to Chennai's renowned architectural landscape. In 1904, Masilamony Mudaliar built the two-story red structure on Vepery High Road in the Indo-Saracenic style, according to data held by the PWD. Two minor wings that are joined to the main central block by a first-floor arcaded bridge. The building's masonry and roof, which span 28,051 square feet, have sustained significant damage.

According to officials, the building's pointed arches are covered with intricate masonry, and panels on the centre block's façade are embellished with animal motifs. It is intended to replace the broken stones on the pillars and arches. "We are identifying a locality in Kadapa district, Andhra Pradesh, and in Tamil Nadu to source material that matches the original pink stones," a representative said. Brickwork that needs minor repairs will be done. Additionally, the leaky top layer of the Madras Terrace roof would be rebuilt with pressed tiles for improved weather resistance. According to S. Manikandan, executive engineer, building centre and conservation division, a branch of the PWD, the damaged areas of the floor will be rebuilt in addition to the ceiling and inner walls being replastered.

If necessary, the terrace's slope sunshade would be fixed or perhaps rebuilt. Teakwood doors and windows would be examined. In order to make the lime mortar pits and barricade the work site without interfering with building operations, preliminary work was being done. The officials stated that although modest maintenance work may have been done in the past, this would be the most extensive work to be done in a long time. The 4.64 billion rupee project would be finished in 18 months.

The PWD has issued a request for proposals for comparable repair work at the 1909-built red brick Archives and Historical Research historic building in Egmore. The project is expected to cost $8.52 crore.