One of the more fascinating stories in recent times has been the discovery of a 150-metre long underground British era bunker inside the Raj Bhavan complex at Malabar Hill
One of the more fascinating stories in recent times has been the discovery of a 150-metre long underground British era bunker inside the Raj Bhavan complex at Malabar Hill. While reports quote Raj Bhavan officials saying that the bunker had been closed for several decades, when the Governor Ch Vidyasagar Rao learnt of its existence, he decided it needed to be opened again.
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The bunker is spread over 5,000 sq ft and has rooms titled Shell Store, Gun Shell, Cartridge Store, Shell Lift, Pump and Workshop. There are also lamp recesses in the gangway of the bunker. It is heartening to know that the governor is going to consult experts about preserving the bunker since it's an important and exciting part of Mumbai's history and it would be a shame to not preserve it for future generations.
Since it's within the Raj Bhavan complex, we would like to hope it would be kept in good condition - not vandalised or defaced like so many heritage sites in our city. In dismal conditions and oscillating between barely there to heading-towards-ruin, most places of historical importance in the city command little respect from our citizens.
We also dare to dream that after experts have given their verdict, Raj Bhavan would consider opening the bunker for the masses. Well-organised visits with informed guides would make this bunker a wonderful addition to the city's must-see attractions.
Given that it is the Governor's quarters, the sensitivity of the location needs to be kept in mind. However, it makes sense to open the bunker for students and historians at least. So much of Mumbai's historical infrastructure is out of bounds for the public for various reasons. Access to these sites will only help people learn more. The past can teach us so much about the present. And when we have discovered one more previous piece of our city's glorious past, opening it for public viewing, of course with security restrictions in place, will be a great gift to the people of Mumbai. Over to you, Guv.
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