The Western Railway (WR) headquarters in Churchgate will soon go through an INR 6.5 crore transformation for its 125th anniversary. This three-storey building is a historic century-old marvel, featuring a central tower, statues, and exquisite masonry.
Phase 1 of Renovation
The renovation work will take place in a two-phase process. The initial phase will focus on preserving the building's original features. This includes a thorough cleaning, waterproofing measures, and addressing long-standing dome leakage issues.
Phase 2 of Renovation
The second phase of the project is already in preparation, with the tendering process underway. It will include enhancing the building by implementing an advanced theme lighting system throughout the structure. Additionally, a Heritage Walk exhibit will be introduced. There are also plans for expanding the current ground-floor museum. There will also be a museum on the third floor.
History of the Building
The Churchgate building has historical roots dating to the incorporation of the Bombay, Baroda, and Central India Railway (BB&CI), the forerunner of Western Railway. Initially headquartered in Surat, BB&CI later settled in this building in 1899. Famous architect Frederick William Stevens, creator of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), used Indo-Saracenic and Venetian Gothic architectural styles in this building.
Construction of the Building
The construction of this headquarters began in 1894. It was completed at a cost of INR 7.5 lakh in January 1899. Unfortunately, in November 1905, a fire harmed the building and the historical records stored within the dome. The restoration was then undertaken by Charles Fredrick Stevens, the son of the building's architect. It cost INR 3 lakh and brought the structure back to its former glory.
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