“That way, we get to keep our past, generate revenues and move towards the future. Buildings like these should not be demolished but rather adaptively reused and linked with cultural activities and boosting heritage tourism and economy of Bihar. And the Collectorate carries within its walls Dutch and British history, besides being specimens of unique architecture of those eras.
“I am of the view that old, historical buildings should be preserved for posterity. The latest to face this is the city’s century-old Collectorate, spanning Dutch and British history of the capital. In the absence of a holistic preservation policy, several heritage properties in Patna are fighting a losing battle against modernity, giving way to high-rise buildings. The real estate explosion and rapid urbanisation has dealt a severe blow to the city’s heritage,” he said. Unfortunately, with the passage of time, we lost so many of them including the iconic Dak Bungalow. kothis and mansions - dotting its streets, adding to the charm. “Even till late 60s, Patna was a beautiful city with old buildings - from government bungalows to private houses.
Patna: Lamenting the loss of built heritage in the state in the past several decades, Bihar Finance Minister Abdul Bari Siddiqui has suggested saving historical buildings, including the Dutch-era Collectorate in the state capital and linking such structures with culture and tourism instead of dismantling them. Bihar Finance Minister Abdul Bari Siddiqui suggested saving historical buildings