Construction activity at Pratap Vilas Palace compound halted

Vadodara-based Heritage Trust recently filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) against the Railway Ministry, Rail Vikas Nigam Ltd, and National Academy of Indian Railways through its advocate Salil Thakore. The trust stated that the railways intended to construct a building in the historic Raja Baug or the garden overlooking the majestic Pratap Vilas Palace. It is to house the National Rail and Transportation Institute (NRTI) and other offices. The high court bench comprising justices J B Pardiwala and Ilesh Vora passed an interim order.

The beauty and heritage of the building will be lost due to this makeshift arrangement and the petition also stated that the act contradicts the Government of India’s 1954 and 1981 notification stating a special need for protection and preservation of monuments yet to be declared as ‘protected’.
Royal family member, Radhikaraje Gaekwad, had urged the citizens of the city and the country to stand up and make a decision. The family also had started an online signature campaign.

On Wednesday, the High Court issued a notice accepting that the construction will destroy the beauty of the 106-year-old palace. The construction of the building has been halted. The written order regarding the hearing is still awaited.