IIT Expert Raises Major Question Over Structural Repairs as High Court Examines Safety of 21-Metre-High Dome
Jodhpur: The Rajasthan High Court is continuing to examine serious structural concerns relating to its new building at the Jodhpur Bench, particularly the safety of its approximately 21-metre-high dome.
During the proceedings, an IIT professor made a significant observation regarding the economics of structural repairs. He stated that if the cost of repairing and maintaining a building exceeds 50% of its original cost, demolition may be a more appropriate option than continuing with repairs.
The matter is being heard by a Division Bench headed by Justice Pushpendra Singh Bhati, which is examining the structural safety of the new High Court building.
The issue assumes significance as questions have been raised over the structural condition of the building and the safety of its massive dome. The Court has been closely monitoring the matter and has sought the assistance of senior government officials and technical experts.
The High Court had taken suo motu cognizance of concerns relating to the structural safety of the approximately 21-metre-high dome and directed senior officials and experts to remain personally present before the Court.
In compliance with the Court’s directions, the Director General of Police (DGP), Additional Chief Secretary Praveen Kumar and other concerned officials were present during the proceedings. Representatives of IIT Bombay and experts involved in examining the structural condition of the building also appeared before the Court.
The IIT professor’s observation effectively raises a larger question before the authorities—whether continued expenditure on repairs would be justified if the cost of making the building structurally safe becomes disproportionately high compared to its original construction cost.
The proceedings have also brought renewed focus on the quality, structural integrity and long-term safety of the new High Court building, constructed at a substantial public cost.
The Court is continuing to consider the technical reports and responses of the authorities and experts. Further directions on the safety of the building and its dome are expected after the Court examines the material placed before it.