Nagpur: One of the city’s oldest institutions, the central museum popularly known as Ajab Bangla, is set for a long-awaited upgrade, with the state govt approving ₹60.18 crore for restoration and modernisation of the Museum.The govt granted administrative sanction for structural conservation, internal refurbishment, and visitor facility improvements at the heritage building, which houses significant archaeological and natural history collections from and around the Vidarbha region.Of the ₹60 crore sanctioned, ₹35.29 crore is earmarked for conservation and development works. The first component, amounting to ₹20.34 crore, includes roof restoration and strengthening, stone conservation including plinth protection, reconstruction of compound walls and covered sheds, flooring and surface finishing, waterproofing, anti-termite treatment and protective coatings, along with pre-construction cleaning.The second component, estimated at ₹14.95 crore, focuses on internal and site-level improvements. This includes furniture and surface finishes, new panels and accessories, infographic and digital display systems, basic electrical installations, water supply and drainage systems, landscaping, visitor amenities, toilet repairs, and staff facilities.An additional ₹15.70 crore is allocated towards taxes and related charges, covering electrification and illumination, fire-fighting systems, HVAC and security installations, contingencies, testing and quality control, royalty fees, labour insurance, architectural consultancy, and escalation costs. GST at 18%, amounting to ₹9.18 crore, takes the total project cost to ₹60.18 crore.The Director of Archaeology and Museums, Maharashtra, is designated as the controlling officer for the project. The works will be executed as per museology standards under the supervision of the directorate and the concerned curator.The expenditure will be met from the tourism and cultural affairs department’s budget provision for redevelopment and development of state museums.
