The Victoria Memorial Hall

Report of the Committee on Victoria Memorial Hall

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON INPROVEMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENT OF VICTORIA MEMORIAL HALL, KOLKATA

Constituted by Hon'ble High Court, Calcutta on 27.11.2003 In connection with Writ Petition No. 7987 (W) of 2002 Howrah Ganatantrik Nagarik Samity & Others, Petitioners Versus Union of India & Others

Kolkata

February 2004

Report of the Committee on Victoria Memorial Hall

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The Committee appreciates the contributions of the distinguished Committee members and the Organizations such as National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), Nagpur ; Archaeological Survey of India ; Victoria Memorial Hall ; Jadavpur University ; Central Public Works Department ; Department of Environment, Government of West Bengal ; Public Works Department, Government of West Bengal ; Central Pollution Control Board ; Kolkata Municipal Corporation ; Kolkata Police ; Ghosh, Bose & Associates (P) Ltd., and West Bengal Pollution Control Board.

The Committee acknowledges the contributions of Shri Hirak Ghosh, Principal Secretary, Department of Environment, Government of West Bengal and Chairman, West Bengal Pollution Control Board.

The Committee also acknowledges the suggestions and advices rendered by Dr. Pratap Chandra Chunder and Dr. P. C. Mahatab, Members of the Board of Trustee of the Victoria Memorial Hall.

The Committee further appreciates the secretariat support provided by the West Bengal Pollution Control Board for preparation of the report and also the suggestions and advices rendered by Shri Biman Kumar Basu, Chief Engineer, Dr. Dipak Chakraborty, Chief Scientist, and Shri Biswajit Mukherjee, Senior Law Officer of the West Bengal Pollution Control Board.

All others, who have provided direct or indirect assistance to the Committee, especially Shri Kumarjib Chakraborty, Administrative Officer, Victoria Memorial Hall, Shri Debanjan Gupta, Scientist and Shri Debi Prasad Banerjee, Law Officer of the West Bengal Pollution Control Board, are also gratefully acknowledged. Report of the Committee on Victoria Memorial Hall

ABBREVIATIONS

ASI Archeological Survey of India CPCB Central Pollution Control Board CPWD Central Public Works Department CSIR Centre for Scientific and Industrial Research KMA Kolkata Metropolitan Area KMC Kolkata Municipal Corporation NEERI National Environmental Engineering Research Institute PWD Public Works Department RPM Respirable Particulate Matters SPM Suspended Particulate Matters VMH Victoria Memorial Hall WBPCB West Bengal Pollution Control Board Report of the Committee on Victoria Memorial Hall

CONTENTS

Chapter Description Page No.

Executive Summary 1 1 : Introduction 11 2 : The Victoria Memorial Hall 15 3 : Ambient Air Quality of Kolkata City and 20 around the Victoria Memorial Hall 4 : Atmospheric Effects on Heritage Stone Buildings 25 and the Victoria Memorial Hall 5 : Victoria Memorial Premises 28 6 : Influence Zone of the Victoria Memorial Premises 31 7 : General Issues 34 Executive Summary

Introduction The deterioration of the Victoria Memorial Hall (VMH) due to adverse environmental condition has been a well discussed topic for many years. The National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) undertook an in depth study in 1992 with a view to assess its deterioration due to atmospheric pollution, and suggested certain short-term and long-term measures for protection of the monument. Similarly, Sir Bernard M. Feilden, architectural conservation consultant from UK, also made recommendations in the same year for restoration and conservation of the monument. Further, the West Bengal Pollution Control Board (WBPCB) conducted a study during December 2001 and January 2002 to assess impact of vehicular pollution on air quality in and around the VMH and suggested measures for reducing its level with a view to protect the monument from the effects of air pollutants. The Committee, as constituted by the Hon'ble High Court, Calcutta (2003) as discussed below, endorses the recommendations made by these studies and recommends that these should be implemented, if not made earlier.

In the year 2002, the Howrah Ganatantrik Nagarik Samity and others filed a writ petition (bearing no. 7989 (W) of 2002) before the Hon'ble High Court, Calcutta praying, inter alia, for taking immediate steps for the preservation, protection and maintenance of the VMH. In its order on 27th November 2003, the Hon'ble High Court, Calcutta constituted a Committee with Dr. S. K. Sarkar, Member Secretary of the WBPCB as its convenor to suggest ways and means for improvement of environment of the VMH.

The other members of the said Committee are Prof. Samir Kumar Rakshit, Member of the Heritage Conservation Committee, Kolkata and Professor of Jadavpur University ; Shri B. K Sadhu, Chief Traffic and Transport Engineer, Government of West Bengal ; Prof. C. Panda, Secretary and Curator, Victoria Memorial ; Shri Subir Mitra, Senior Environmental Engineer, WBPCB ; Shri B. R. Naidu, Regional Director, Central Pollution Control Board, Kolkata ; Shri Sutanu Ghosh, Managing Director, M/s. Ghosh, Bose & Associates (P) Ltd. ; Shri Arun Kanti Biswas, Scientist and Head, Kolkata Zonal Laboratory, NEERI ; Dr.B.Bandopadhyay, Superintending Archeologist, Kolkata Zonal Office, Archaeological Survey of India ; Shri Prasun Mukherjee, Additional Commissioner of Police, Kolkata Police ; Shri S. Barari, Chief Environmental Officer, Department of Environment, Govt. of West Bengal ; Shri A. K. Mishra, Executive Engineer, Presidency Circle-1, Public Works Department, Government of West Bengal ; Shri J. K. Roy, Executive Engineer, Calcutta Central Division-I, Central Public Works Department (Civil Wing), Nizam Palace, Kolkata ; and Shri A. Karforma, Deputy Chief Municipal Architect and Town Palnner, Kolkata Municipal Corporation.

The Victoria Memorial Hall

The Committee observed that the VMH, managed by a Board of Trustee, and working under the administrative control of the Department of Culture, Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Govt. of India, is frequented by about 35,000 visitors daily entering the VMH and/or ground, which increase to even about 1 lakh on some occasions. The ground is kept open to visitors from 4-45 A.M. to 6-00 P.M. during winter and 7-00 P.M. in summer.

The Committee noted inadequacy of certain categories of staff, and suggests that the staff issue may be examined in details by the VMH authority with a view to proper maintenance and conservation of heritage buildings/monuments on a sustainable basis.

The Committee observed that the administrative office of the VMH authority, along with staff toilet, etc., is housed in the Memorial Hall itself occupying a considerable space of the Hall. It also noticed the seepage of water in the building wall due to lack of maintenance of these facilities. The Committee recommends that the occupied space of the Hall by the administrative unit should be vacated by the VMH authority in due course of time. Prevalent Air Quality of Kolkata

In Kolkata, studies show that the air pollutants as characterised by Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM) and Respirable Particulate Matter (RPM) are much above the National Standard for the sensitive areas ; sulphur dioxide much below the National Standard for residential and rural areas ; and nitrogen oxides marginally lower than the National Standard for residential and rural areas. While the values for sulphur dioxide and SPM are found to have decreased during the last few years, the same for nitrogen oxides was found to have increased considerably during the recent years having adverse effect on environment in Kolkata.

Nevertheless, measures undertaken in the State for restricting the increase in the level of SPM and reducing the level of sulphur dioxide through installation of adequate air pollution control systems and improved cleaner fuel / process in the industries located at Kolkata, introducing stricter emission norms in respect of Particulate Matters for certain industries, facilitating reduction of sulphur content in automotive fuel, and introduction of stricter emission standard for automobiles, thus helping curb vehicular pollution to some extent, have arrested the tendencies to increase the pollution level in the city.

Atmospheric Effects

The term 'weathering', is often used to describe the deterioration of building materials due to atmospheric effects. It is widely assumed that deposition of pollutants on the monuments leads to acceleration of decay of stone, especially limestone, marbles and sandstone. The Committee noted that both wet and dry deposition of pollutants contributes to the damage of stone, and in tourist destinations, the role of sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides and carbon dioxide is considered to be fundamental in accelerating historical stone weathering. The chemical reactions show that calcium carbonate transforms into calcium sulphate due to deposition of sulphur compounds. The oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and ozone (O3) also play a major role in this transformation process. The nitrogen oxides is a contributor to acid precipitation which has significant adverse effects on stone. Studies also show that carbon dioxide, a product of hydrocarbon combustion, enters into the atmosphere in relatively large quantities, and plays an important role in the damage of stone surface. Based on their morphology and elemental composition, the Committee noted that the atmospheric particles embedded within the damaged stone surface play a vital role in the deterioration of the stone surfaces. For instance, the carbonaceous particles impart black colour of the damaged surface layers causing aesthetic damage, or particulate matters of metallic origin play a typical role of catalyst for sulphur dioxide oxidation. The other causes for stone work degradation include deposition and colonization of their surfaces by bacteria, fungi and algae.

The Committee, however, did not notice any systematic study examining the impact of pollutants on the VMH. The Committee, therefore, recommends that a pilot study be conducted immediately to understand the impact of the prevalent air quality on the VMH so that necessary remedial measures be taken up on the marble surface. In this regard, it is suggested that the rainwater should be collected at the site and analyzed for relevant parameters, as the constituents of the rainwater would be an indicator as to whether rainwater could possibly affect the marble.

The Committee further suggests that an action plan should be drawn up by the VMH authority in consultation with the Archeological Survey of India and NEERI for suggesting suitable measures for protecting the stones from the adverse atmospheric effect.

Victoria Memorial Premises

Entry fee Though there is an entry fee for visit to the VMH museum, there is no such fee for entry to the VMH compound (garden). The Committee felt that introduction of an entry fee would not only control visitors to the compound, but would also generate funds for the VMH authority towards its better maintenance and developmental activities. The Committee recommends that a reasonable 'entry fee' should be charged for visit to the VMH compound. The VMH authority should be requested to examine the issue and formulate a 'fee' schedule on immediate basis.

The Committee could not arrive at any unanimous decision as to whether the VMH compound should be opened to morning visitors. Some members felt that the VMH compound should be opened to the public after a session of its morning cleaning, as this will minimise the chances of defacement of the museum and the VMH's historical compound. Others expressed a contrary view as these measures, if adopted, will restrict the morning visitors.

Hawkers There are hawkers around the VMH compound contributing to generation of additional garbage mainly in the form of plastic carry bags, plastic pouches, plastic containers, discarded bags/containers made up of old newspapers, etc.

The Committee recommends that no hawkers should be allowed within 50 metres of the VMH compound. Littering, spitting, etc. The visitors to the VMH compound were seen littering, spitting, smoking, consuming food stuff, and using plastic carry bags inside the VMH compound. The Committee also observed consumption of food stuff by the visitors inside the VMH compound, which often generates wastes and affects the environment.

The Committee recommends that the provisions should be made for imposition of strict fines for offences committed by the visitors for littering, spitting, smoking, using plastic carry bags, and also consumption of food stuff inside the VMH compound. Enacting suitable legislation, or amendment of the existing legislation, if required, should be considered. Else, suitable administrative orders should be issued by the VMH authority to this effect.

Drainage Drainage and sewerage lines of the VMH compound were found clogged and choked.

The Committee recommends that the VMH authority should take measures, through appropriate agency, for cleaning of the sewerage and drainage lines. The authority should also ensure proper maintenance so that wastewater conveyed through the sewerage and drainage lines attains self-cleansing velocity.

Water supply The Committee was reported that presently, water is drawn through two bore wells which are not affected with arsenic contamination. This water is used for flushing of toilets, watering the garden, replenishing the water bodies, etc. All other bore wells have been abandoned due to arsenic contamination. As Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) does not supply potable water to the VMH, at present the VMH authority gets supply of drinking water through tankers supplied by the Kashi Vishwanath Seva Samity. The Committee recommends that abstraction of ground water by the VMH authority should be totally stopped. Further, KMC should ensure and expedite steady supply of drinking water. The VMH authority, through appropriate agency, should make safe arrangement for storage and distribution (within the Hall and the Compound) of drinking water as required.

Water-bodies Some of the waterbodies within the VMH compound show clear signs of eutrophication. People were seen using waterbodies for various activities, even washing clothes. Such activities cause nutritional imbalance of the water-body that affects the aquatic food chain resulting algal bloom, known as eutrophication of waterbody.

The Committee recommends that necessary actions should be taken by the VMH authority for improved management of the waterbodies, so that algal growth does not occur. The waterbodies should not be used for human activity and recreational activities.

Influence Zone of the Victoria Memorial Premises

Parking of vehicles The Committee noticed parking of a large number of tourist and chartered buses, outside the VMH compound on the southern, northern and eastern side, just adjacent to the boundary wall. The parking activity adds to pollution load around the VMH.

The Committee recommends that the parking of vehicles on all sides of the VMH compound should be totally banned.

In the line with the order of the Hon’ble High Court, Calcutta of 27.11.2003 the Committee reiterates that no fairs should be allowed to take place on any side of the VMH compound. The space that becomes available (on the eastern and southern side outside the VMH compound) should be designed as 'Park' with appropriate landscaping. As there is no such space available outside the VMH compound on the western side, the VMH authority should examine in providing a green buffer zone of trees inside its compound. Further, the VMH authority should initiate dialogue with the Botanical Survey of India, or appropriate organization for necessary suggestions and advice for better management of the existing trees and also for new plantations.

Elevated ground The Committee noticed that on southern and south-western side, outside the VMH compound, the ground level has been elevated, reportedly by the HRBC, which causes problems of back flow of storm water, and water logging of a part of the VMH compound during monsoon, etc.

The Committee recommends that the HRBC and/or appropriate authority should take immediate action to remove that elevated portion.

Traffic Since the VMH is located amidst busy urban areas with busy roads running all around its compound, traffic congestion and long detention of vehicles at traffic signals at roadway intersections increase the load of vehicular pollution.

Leaves burning It was reported to the Committee that dry leaves are often burnt in heaps at a number of locations in the near vicinity of the VMH compound which generate profuse smoke and air pollutants like particulate matters, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, etc., which depending on the wind direction get transported to reach the monumental structure of the VMH and affect it adversely.

The Committee recommends that the practice of burning of leaves should be stopped within the city. Instead, dry leaves may be composted in proper environment friendly manner. The WBPCB may be asked to issue appropriate orders to this effect.

General Issues

The Committee recommends that an Expert Committee should be constituted to advise the VMH authority, at regular interval, regarding conservation and restoration of the heritage building. The members may, inter alia, comprise of the following -  A structural engineer with specialization in conservation and restoration of heritage building  An architect with specialization in conservation and restoration of heritage building  Representative from National Research Laboratory for the Conservation of Cultural Property, Govt. of India, Lucknow  Representative from National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, Govt. of India, Nagpur  Representative from the Department of Environment, Govt. of West Bengal / West Bengal Pollution Control Board  Representative from a reputed NGO working in the field of environment  The Secretary and Curator - Victoria Memorial Hall - Convenor The Committee observed that setting up structures and/or facilities within the VMH compound for commercial amusement and recreational activities will adversely impact the environment, will not be in consonance with the existing local ambience, and will increase the visual pollution.. The Committee recommends that no structure and/or facility should be built within the VMH compound for the purpose of amusement and recreational activities.

However, the Committee found that the VMH being an eminent centre of art and culture focusing on the heritage of 17th-20th century India and Bengal, lacks several modern facilities like space/facility having international standard for visiting exhibitions; space/facility for education, research, lecture, library, meeting/reception, and space/facility to serve the public visiting the VMH. The Committee suggests that the VMH authority should enhance its existing facility to take a shape of an eminent centre of art and culture of international standard. The feasibility of building visitors' centre and exhibition area in a separate building within the VMH compound to provide the above mentioned facilities, should be explored. In any case, this should not disturb the existing landscape, and should also be in consonance with the existing ambience and compatible with the existing architecture of the monument. Chapter 1

Introduction

Background The Victoria Memorial Hall (VMH), a marvelous structure situated in the heart of Kolkata, is one of the most outstanding specimen of the historical and cultural heritage of modern architectural monument in India. Kolkata, one of the megacities of the world with a large industrial base at its suburbs and its twin city Howrah, contribute to atmospheric pollution from natural and anthropogenic sources. The environmental pollution and its impact on the VMH have been a cause for great concern for quite sometime. The deterioration of the VMH due to adverse environmental condition has been a well debated topic for a couple of decades. In fact, the VMH authority, in 1990s, undertook an in depth study through the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), a premier CSIR institute based at Nagpur, with a view to assess the deterioration of the monument due to atmospheric pollution and to devise a monument protection plan. The NEERI report (April 1992) suggested both short-term and long-term measures (Annexure-3). Thereafter, Sir Bernard M. Feilden, an eminent architectural conservation consultant from UK, visited the VMH, and made valuable recommendation towards restoration and conservation of the monument (Annexure-2). The West Bengal Pollution Control Board also conducted a study during December 2001 till January 2002 to assess the impact of vehicular pollution on air quality in and around the VMH, and to suggest measure for reducing the pollution level with a view to protect the monument from the effects of air pollutants (Annexure-4).

In 2002, the Howrah Ganatantrik Nagarik Samity and others filed a writ petition, (no. 7989 (W) of 2002), before the Hon'ble High Court, Calcutta, inter alia, praying that the respondent parties may be directed to take immediate steps for the preservation, protection and maintenance of the monument, i.e. Victoria Memorial Hall. The Hon'ble High Court, Calcutta, was pleased to pass an order on 27-11-2003 in pursuance of this petition constituting a Committee with the following members: a) Prof. Samir Kumar Rakshit, Member of the Heritage, Conservation Committee, Kolkata, and Professor of Jadavpur University. b) Representative from M/s. Ghosh, Bose & Associates. c) Representative from NEERI, Nagpur. d) Representative from Archaeological Survey of India. e) Representative from Commissioner of Kolkata Police. f) Representative from Department of Environment, Government of West Bengal. g) Secretary and Curator, Victoria Memorial. h) Representative from Public Works Department, Government of West Bengal. i) Chief Traffic & Transport Engineer, Government of West Bengal. j) Shri Subir Mitra, Senior Environmental Engineer, West Bengal Pollution Control Board. k) Regional Director, Central Pollution Control Board, Kolkata. l) Representative of the Central Public Works Department (Civil Wing), having office at Nizam Palace, Kolkata. m) Representative of Kolkata Municipal Corporation. n) Member-Secretary, West Bengal Pollution Control Board - Convenor.

The respective organizations nominated their representatives to act as Members of the Committee. The members which deliberated at the Committee are:

a) Prof. Samir Kumar Rakshit, Member of the Heritage, Conservation Committee, Kolkata, and Professor of Jadavpur University. b) Shri Sutanu Ghosh, Managing Director, M/s. Ghosh, Bose & Associates (P) Ltd. Kolkata c) Shri Arun Kanti Biswas, Scientist & Head, NEERI, Kolkata Zonal Laboratory, Kolkata d) Dr. B. Bandopadhyay, Superintending Archeologist, Archaeological Survey of India, Kolkata Zonal Office, Kolkata e) Shri Prasun Mukherjee, Additional Commissioner of Kolkata Police, Kolkata Police f) Shri S. Barari, Chief Environment Officer, Department of Environment, Government of West Bengal. g) Prof. C. Panda, Secretary and Curator, VMH h) Shri J.K. Ray, Executive Engineer, Calcutta Central Division I Central Public Works Department (Civil Wing) Government of India. i) Shri B.K. Sadhu, Chief Traffic & Transportation Engineer, Government of West Bengal. j) Shri Subir Mitra, Senior Environmental Engineer, WBPCB, Kolkata. k) Shri B.R. Naidu, Senior Environmental Engineer & Incharge, Eastern Zonal Office, CPCB, Kolkata. l) Shri A.K. Mishra, Executive Engineer, Presidency Circle 1, PWD, Government of West Bengal. m) Shri A. Karforma, Deputy Chief Municipal Architect and Town Planner, KMC n) Dr. S. K. Sarkar, Member Secretary, WBPCB - Convenor.

Scope The Committee, as directed by the Hon’ble High Court, is required to suggest ways and measures for improvement of the environment of the VMH.

Methodology

The Committee met on four occasions during December 2003 till February 2004, visited the VMH site, interacted with various experts and members of the Board of Trustee, and examined the relevant literature. Due to paucity of time, the Committee members were not able to visit other heritage stone monuments in the country. During its deliberations, the Committee considered the findings of various reports such as NEERI (April 1992) and Sir Bernard M. Feilden (Feb. 1992), and the WBPCB (Feb. 2002). In writing this report, the Committee endorses the suggestions and recommendations made in these reports.

The report is written as follows. Following the introductory chapter, the next chapter discusses briefly about the VMH. Chapter 3 outlines the ambient air quality of Kolkata City and around the VMH. The next chapter discusses the atmospheric effects on heritage stone buildings and the VMH. Chapter 5 outlines issues pertaining to VMH premises. The next chapter brings out the issues relating to influence zones of VMH premises. Finally, Chapter 7 enumerates some general issues. Chapter 2

The Victoria Memorial Hall

Historical backdrop

The VMH was conceived by Lord Curzon, the then Viceroy of British India, on expiry of Queen Victoria in 1901. It was expected to be a living institution in memory of the Queen with particular emphasis on Indo-British history. Raised on a land measuring sixty-four acres, and with the contribution obtained from the Indian people of more than a crore of rupees in those days, the Memorial was given a shape. The foundation stone was laid by King George V, the then Prince of Wales, on January 4, 1906, and it was formally opened to the public in 1921.

The monument presents an immensely imposing sight. The splendour is evident in its architecture, designed by Sir William Emerson, President of the British Institute of Architects. The architecture of the building is predominantly Italian Renaissance in character - blended with the nuances of Orientalism. The marble and sand stones used in its construction were quarried at Makrana, then in the Jodhpur State. The ornamental group of statues over the entrance porches and the figures surrounding the central dome were executed in Italy. The figure of the Angel of Victory, 16ft. high and weighing 3 tonnes surmounts the dome and revolves upon its own base. The building is 184ft. high up to the base of the figure, of the Angel of Victory. The group of figures above the north porch represents Motherhood, Prudence and Learning. Surrounding the main dome are figures of Art, Architecture, Justice, Charity etc.

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In writing the chapter, the Committee heavily depended on the materials contained in the Annual Report of the VMH (2001-2002). Declared as an Institution of National Importance by the Act of 1935, the Memorial represents and draws our attention visually to the history of modern India. The history is constructed with the visuals in oil and water colours, sketches and drawing, aquatints and lithographs, stamps and postal stationery, coins and medals, arms and armour, books and manuscripts, sculptures and costumes, personal relics and archival documents. The Memorial has a unique collection of paintings by European artists. The collection was further strengthened with acquisition of paintings of modern Indian artists. The Memorial is the repository of a largest number of Daniells' paintings in the world. It possesses the third largest painting in the world - Vassili Verestchagin's "The State Procession of the Prince of Wales into Jaipur in 1876". The Memorial's philatelic collection on Indian postal history is equally large. Among other important collections, one may refer to Mughal emperor Aurangzeb's hand-written Quran or Dara Sikoh's translation of the Upanishads. Equally important and fascinating are the works of Johann Zoffany, Tilly Kettle, Hodges, Samuel Davis, Robert Home, Reynolds, Charles D'oyly, Emily Eden, George Stubbs' painting of Hastings and Qazar painting of Fatah Ali Shah, Tipu Sultan's personal war- diary or the Cannon-balls of the battle of Plassey.

Other than the Curzonian scheme of collection and arrangement of the exhibits, the post- independence collections include National Leaders’ Gallery as well as collections of other artefacts - Bankim Chandra's writing desk, Mahatma Gandhi's ashes, paintings of Abanindranath, Atul Bose and Jamini Roy, etc. A total of about 27,000 artifacts ( e.g. painting, watercolours, stamps, coins, arms and armour)) exists in the VMH.

Apart from the priceless collections displayed in the gallery and library with 10,674 of books and periodicals, a well-maintained picturesque garden with its water-bodies (3.57 acres), lawns, gravel pathways and trees offer visual treat to the visitors. The garden attracts more than 5 million visitors annually. The entire compound of the VMH was exquisitely designed on a total area of 64 acre with the building covering an area of 77064 sq.ft. (1.7632 acres). On way to the north gate is a bronze statue of Queen Victoria by Sir George Frampton, R.A. The Queen is seated on her throne, wearing the robes of the Star of India. Approaching the building from the south, visitors pass through the King Edward VII memorial arch with a bronze equestrian statue of the King by Sir Bertram Mackennal surmounting it and a marble statue of Lord Curzon by F.W. Pomeroy, R.A.There are also other statues of various dignitaries such as Lord Bentinck, Governor-General of India (1828-1835), Lord Ripon (Governor-General of India from 1880 to 1884) ; the statue of Sir Rajendranath Mookherjee, the pioneer industrialist of Bengal (on the eastern side).

Present Management The Victoria Memorial Hall is currently managed by a Board of Trustee comprising of the following members:- 1 His Excellency Shri Viren J Shah Governor of West Bengal and Chairman, Board of Trustees, Victoria Memorial 2 Hon'ble Justice Shri A. K. Mathur Chief Justice High Court, Kolkata 3 Hon'ble Shri Subrata Mukherjee Mayor Kolkata Municipal Corporation 4 Shri Dhanendra Kumar, IAS Secretary to the Govt. of India Department of Culture 5 Shri V. Subramanian, IAS Financial Adviser Ministry of Tourism & Culture Department of Culture, the Govt. Of India 6 Shri Jawhar Sircar, IAS Principal Secretary to the Govt. of West Bengal Department of Higher Education 7 Shri Nand Kishore Accountant General (A&E) West Bengal, Kolkata 8 Smt. Kiran Agarwal, IAS (Retired) 281, Tower-IV, Supreme Enclave, Phase-I Delhi-110091 9 Dr. Pratap Chandra Chunder 23 Nirmal Chunder Street Kolkata-700012 10 Dr. P. C. Mahatab 2/F Judges Court Road Kolkata-700027 11 Smt. Shanta Ghosh 24-B, Park Street Kolkata-700017 12 Smt. Tanushree Shankar Ananda Shankar Centre for Performing Arts 11F, Palm Avenue Kolkata-700019 13 Shri Tarun Chandra Dutta, IAS (Retd.) CA 238, Sector-I Salt Lake City Kolkata-700064 14 Dr. (Mrs.) Nayana Goradia 145, Sundar Nagar New Delhi-110003

The VMH is under the administrative control of the Department of Culture, Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Govt. of India. This is fully funded by the Govt. of India. During 2003-04, it has a budget of Rs. 440 Lakhs under plan and non-plan heads, which is expected to go up during 2004-05. The Committee observed that at present, there is no financial constraint being faced by the VMH.

The Secretary and Curator of the VMH is the administrative head of the Victoria Memorial Hall. There are 176 permanent staff and 45 casual workers.

Maintenance of the building and environment The VMH building has an area of 77064 sq.ft. (338 ft.X 228 ft.) and a height of 184 feet. To maintain this huge structure, it is necessary to have requisite staff. The Victoria Memorial Hall presently has no staff for structural maintenance of the building. The work of carrying out structural repairs is presently assigned to ASI by an order of the Union Government (Annexure 7). The present system by which ASI undertakes work at the Memorial was explained to the Committee. Rather than prepare and submit an estimate to the Memorial for administrative sanction and deposit of funds with the ASI for commencement of work, the VMH authorities suggested that ASI may be allowed to have a reserve fund for executing emergency repairs to the building as and when necessary, and the funds may be reimbursed to ASI by VMH authorities subsequently. Apart from one Caretaker, VMH has no supervising staff to look after the monument or to interact with ASI and other agencies. There is no engineer with expertise in conservation of heritage buildings / monuments for long term care of the monument.

On an average about 35,000 visitors enter the Memorial grounds. During the peak season, on certain days, the figure could be as high as 1,00,000 visitors. The ground is kept open to the visitors from 4-45 A.M. to 6-00 P.M. (winter) and 7-00 P.M. (Summer). To maintain ecology, environment, and the grounds of the Memorial, the VMH authority feels that sufficient number of ground staff comprising of trained Malis, Sweepers as well supervisory staff such as Garden Superintendent / Caretaker are required (At present, VMH has a sanctioned strength of 28 Mails, 13 Sweepers and 16 Khallasis).

VMH has more than 27,000 artifacts – paintings, watercolours, stamps, coins, arms and armour. It also has an archives of historical manuscripts & records. It was reported by the VMH authorities , there being no posts of Keeper, Dy. Keeper and Assistant Keeper, sufficient and standard care could not be taken about various collections – both in the stores and on display in the galleries.

The Committee suggests that the above satffing issue may be examined in details for assessing the requirements to have additional staff keeping in mind the need for proper maintenance, and conservation of heritage buildings/monuments on sustainable basis.

The Committee observed that the administrative office of the VMH authority, along with its staff toilet, etc. is housed in the Memorial Hall itself occupying a considerable space of the Hall. It also noticed the seepage of water in the building wall due to lack of maintenance of the facilities [Exhibit 2.2]. The Committee recommends that the occupied space of the Hall by the Administrative unit should be vacated by the VMH authority in due course of time. Chapter 3

Ambient Air Quality of Kolkata City and around the Victoria Memorial Hall

Ambient air quality in Kolkata Metropolitan Area (KMA)

The Kolkata Metropolitan Area (KMA) consists of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) Area, and its urban agglomeration including parts of the districts of 24 Parganas (South), 24-Parganas(North), Howrah, Hoogly & part of Nadia. The KMA is spread over an area of 1350 sq.km. with a population of 13.22 million (2001).

Like other Indian Metropolitan cities, the concern for air quality of KMA has become a serious issue during the last few decades. The presence of high level of particulate matter in the city air is a major concern for KMA. The West Bengal Pollution Control Board (WBPCB) has been monitoring the air quality of KMC area through a vast network of the following seventeen monitoring stations:  Moulali  Tollygunj  Shyambazar  Salt Lake  Baishnabghata  Behala  Topsia  Ultadanga  RajBhawan  Minto Park  Picnic Garden Chowrasta  Gariahat  Mominpur  Beliaghata  Hyde Road  Dunlop Bridge  Paribesh Bhawan

The air quality data indicate that the annual average levels of particulate matter, particularly the respirable fraction, at all the stations of Kolkata, are higher than the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (annual average for residential areas). Among the exposed population with previous respiratory and cardiac disorder, the annual average concentration of these tiny particles in the city air is about 1.5 times higher than the National Standard for residential areas. The situation becomes even worse during the winter months (November- February) when the RPM (Respirable Particulate Matter) concentration is about two to three times higher than that of the National Standard. The concentration of Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) is marginally above the National Standard. The concentration of Sulphur dioxide (SO2) is, however, much below the National Standard. The air quality data of Kolkata (annual average for the stations) during the year 2002 is given below. Table 3.1 : Air quality data of Kolkata in 2002

3 3 3 3 SPM (µg/ m ) RPM (µg/ m ) SO2 (µg/ m ) NO2 (µg/ m ) Kolkata 178 95 6 67 National standard 140 60 60 60 [Annual Average - Residential, Rural and other areas]

Besides Kolkata, in other areas of the KMA, the State Board monitors air quality during the winter season. The air quality of these stations in KMA during winter season 2002- 2003 (January-March, 2003) is given below: Table 3.2 : Air quality at different stations in KMA during winter seasons

3 3 3 3 SPM (µg/ m ) RPM (µg/ m ) SO2 (µg/ m ) NO2 (µg/ m ) Budge Budge 193 128 5 38 Dum Dum 258 164 5 54 Belgharia 214 132 11 93 Barrackpore 247 154 3 52 Khardah 310 223 10 80 Naihati 297 198 9 49 Liluah 295 195 18 64 Uluberia 184 111 4 39 Dankuni 286 164 11 61 Rishra 286 187 18 44 Tribeni 222 134 7 40 Chinsura 214 132 8 43 Kalyani 205 132 5 38 Gayeshpur 214 157 7 83 National Standard [24-hour 200 100 80 80 Average - Residential, Rural and other areas]

As the air polluting industries of Kolkata are gradually being brought to the compliance path through installation of adequate air pollution control systems and improved clean fuel / process, the RPM level in the city has reduced considerably over the last six years (from 173 µg/ m3 in 1997 to 95 µg/ m3 in 2002). Further improvement in the RPM level is expected when small industries using coal fired boilers would switch the operation of such boilers to cleaner fuel (oil or gas) fired ones. However, lowering of the RPM level to national standards for residential areas would require control of emission from the large fleet of vehicles operating in the city.

In the last decade, the automobile population has increased rapidly in KMA. Automobile exhausts emit particulate matter, unburnt hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, oxides of nitrogen and some carcinogenic organic compounds as benzenes, poly aromatic hydrocarbons, etc. which have definite adverse health impact among the exposed population. Besides, many factors such as predominance of old outdated vehicles, limited available road space, poor traffic management, poor road conditions, and above all, the sheer increase in number of vehicles are responsible for increasing automobile pollution.

As of 31st March, 2003, a total of 8,41,530 vehicles are registered with the Public Vehicles Department, Kolkata and a total of 5,78,114 vehicles registered in the other from KMA districts such as 24 Parganas (South), 24 Parganas (North), Howrah, Hooghly & Nadia.. The average increase in registered vehicles in Kolkata is around 25,000 - 30,000 per year.

Automatic Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Station at VMH Compound

The automatic Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Station at VMH compound is one of five such stations operating in the State of West Bengal since 2003. The station monitors, on a continuous basis, various parameters of ambient air quality, viz sulphur dioxide (SO2), carbon monoxide (CO), respirable particulate matter (RPM) (i.e. suspended particulate matter less than 10 micron size), oxides of nitrogen (NOx , NO2 , NO), total hydrocarbons

(THC), methane (CH4), non methane hydrocarbon (HCNM), ozone (O3) as well as meteorological parameters as wind speed (WS), wind direction (WD), relative humidity (RH), ambient temperature, incoming solar radiation. Typical variations of the parameters during December 2003 are placed at Annexure-5. As stated earlier, in the year 2001, the West Bengal Pollution Control Board conducted a study during December 2001 and January 2002 to assess the impact of vehicular pollution on air quality in and around the Victoria Memorial Hall with a view to protect the monument from the effects of air pollutants. Findings of the study, interalia, include: a) the 24-hour mean value of Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM) and Respirable Particulate Matter (RPM) was much above the National Standard. When compared with the sensitive areas, this level was found even higher; b) the 24-hourly mean value for SO2 was found much below the National Standard for residential and rural areas. The mean value of NO2 was found marginally lower than the National Standard for residential and rural areas though some high NO2 values were also recorded; c) comparing the data obtained from this study with those recorded by the NEERI during its study in 1991, it was found that values for SPM were marginally lower than that observed by the NEERI ; d) the values for SO2 were found decreased considerably during the last 10 years ; but, the values for NO2 were found to have increased considerably; and e) further, air pollution level during night time was found higher compared with those during the day time.

In the said report, it was recommended that, (1) a study should be conducted by a competent organization to assess the present status of the stones and to make necessary recommendations for the protection of the monument, and (2) burning of coal, mineral oils, wood, dry leaves, etc. should be strictly prohibited inside the Victoria Memorial Hall premises and the adjoining areas.

Following the above observations, it is worth mentioning that during the last decade, the West Bengal Pollution Control Board took some effective measures which contributed significantly towards reducing the levels of SPM and SO2 in the ambient air. These include: enforcement of stricter emission norms in respect of Particulate Matters for boilers and re-rolling mills, conversion of coal-fired small boilers and ceramic kiln to oil- fired ones. The Reduction of sulpher content in automotive fuel and introduction of stricter emission standard for automobiles also helped curb vehicular pollution to a great extent. Chapter 4

Atmospheric Effects on Heritage Stone Buildings and the Victoria Memorial Hall

The Earth's atmosphere is being changed at an unprecedented rate by pollution resulting from large scale human activities in many tourist areas. The awareness of increasing stone damage on monuments coupled with a danger of irreversible loss of cultural heritage, has resulted in great efforts worldwide for monument preservation. In this context, "Weathering" is a term used to describe the deterioration of building materials due to atmospheric effects. It is widely assumed that deposition of pollutants on the monuments leads to acceleration of decay of stone, especially limestone, marbles and of sandstone including calcium carbonate. Both wet and dry deposition of pollutants contributes to damage of stone. In tourist destinations, the role of SO2, NOx, and CO2 is considered to be fundamental in accelerating historical stone weathering.

Effect of Sulphur dioxide In general, the main damage effect that takes place on stones and mortars being exposed to urban multipollutants, relates to the transformation of calcium carbonate into calcium sulphate due to deposition of sulphur compounds. The process of sulphation occurs through two mechanism - First, dry deposition of SO2 on the stone surface, leads, in presence of moisture (atmosphere humidity), to the fundamental process of sulphating.

This transformation gives rise to the formation of gypsum (CaSO4, 2H2O). The oxides of nitrogen (NOx), and ozone (O3) play a major role in the transformation of SO2 into

sulphate. Second, the deposition of SO4 (associated with wet deposition or aerosols) directly attacks the carbonate, leading to the formation of the gypsum layer. The volume of gypsum (CaSO4, 2H2O) is 1.7 times higher than the volume of CaCO3, leading to the breakage of stone building materials. The mortars, on the other hand, due to their high porosity, show greater reactivity than those of stone. Further, lime mortars (prepared with lime and sand) undergo a damage typology similar to that of sandstone, with the formation of a surface black crust, and an underlying layer of desegregated sand.

Due to SO2 deposition, these materials (stones and mortars) undergo two damage mechanisms - (a) sulphation is the primary degradation process leading to gypsum formation, and (b) the interaction of gypsum with hydrated mortars compounds (calcium aluminate or silicate) leads to the formation of two secondary products - ettringite and thaumasite. These two secondary products cause fractures, and crack in the materials, with even more damaging consequences.

Effect of Nitrogen Oxides

The other compounds such as Nitrogen oxides (NOx), [especially nitrite (NO2)], reacts with H2O to form nitric acid (HNO3) which is a contributor to acid precipitation. The acid in the presence of some minerals such as Na, K and Ca in stone material, together with sulphates, produces salts, which degrade stone. Example : NaNO3 + KCl  KNO3 + NaCl . As a result of this reaction, salt efflorescence can appear on stone material.

Further, presence of NOx plays a major role in the transformation of SO2 to sulphate as discussed earlier.

Effect of Carbon dioxide

Carbon dioxide (CO2), a product of hydrocarbon combustion, enters the atmosphere in relatively large quantities. The most important reactions on stone buildings are -

CaCO3 + CO2 + H2O  Ca(HCO3)2 -- dissolves stone material, and cause salt efflorescence.

CaCO3 + HCl  CaCl2 + H2O + CO2 -- bubbles on calcium carbonate surface.

Effect of Particulate Matters As regards particulate matters, on the basis of their morphology and elemental composition, the atmospheric particles embedded within the damaged layers can be classified into three main categories - carbonaceous, aluminosilicate and metallic particles. In particular, carbonaceous particles are responsible for the black colours of the damaged layers causing aesthetic damage. Particulate matters of metallic origin play a typical role of catalyst for SO2 oxidation.

Effect of Biological Growth The other cause for stone work degradation is the deposition and colonization of their surfaces by bacteria, fungi and algae. The knowledge of microbial species is important both for the understanding of the deterioration process and for the formulation of chemicals to relieve the damage (additives, detergents, etc.).

Lesson for the Victoria Memorial Hall

The Committee during its visit to the Victorial Memorial Hall found that gypsum formation has developed on the marble surface at a number of places, particularly at the copper joints. Ugly green patches were also observed at a number of places on the monument. These are shown in Exhibits 4.1.

The Committee felt that an in-depth study should be undertaken immediately to understand the impact of the prevalent air quality on the VMH so that necessary remedial measures be taken up on the marble surface. In this context, rainwater should be collected at the site and analyzed for relevant parameters. The constituents of rainwater would be an indicator as to whether rainwater could possibly affect the marble.

In addition, the Committee further recommends that an action plan be drawn up by the Victoria Memorial Hall authority in consultation with the Archeological Survey of India and NEERI for suggesting suitable coatings and treatment of stones of the monument. Chapter 5

Victoria Memorial Premises

The Committee visited the Victoria Memorial Hall premises and noted the following issues –

The Committee recommends that a reasonable 'entry fee' should be charged for visit to the VMH compound. The VMH authority should be requested to examine the issue and formulate a 'fee' schedule on immediate basis.

Entry time The garden of the VMH opens at 4-45 A.M. and closes at 6-00 P.M. during winter and at 7-00 P.M. in summer. In contrast, the museum of the Hall opens at 10 A.M. and closes at 5-00 P.M. Thus, the monumental structure and the garden remain exposed to the visitors for around 14 long hours, and there is an imbalance in the gap between opening of the museum and the opening of the compound in the morning hours when compared with those in the afternoon hours. After the compound closes in the evening, massive cleaning and sweeping operation are required to be undertaken involving a few hours. On the next day morning, the ground is also required to be cleaned, watered, pruned and maintained in general. This takes about 2 to 3 hours. The sweepers report for duty at 7-00 A.M. to clean the entire ground [Exhibit 5.1 (a – l)]. The Committee could not arrive at any unanimous decision as to whether the the VMH compound should be opened to morning visitors. Some members felt that the VMH compound should be opened to the public after a session of morning cleaning, as this will minimise the chances of defacement of the museum and the VMH’s historical compound. Others expressed a contrary views as these measures, if adopted, will restrict the morning visitors.

Hawkers There are hawkers around the VMH compound contributing to the generation of additional garbage mainly in the form of plastic carry bags, plastic pouches, plastic containers, discarded bags/containers made up of old newspapers, etc. [Exhibit 5.1].

The Committee recommends that no hawkers should be allowed within 50 metres of the VMH compound.

Littering, spitting, etc. The visitors to the VMH compound were seen littering, spitting, smoking, consuming food stuff, and using plastic carry bags inside the VMH compound [Exhibit 5.2 (a-d)]. .

The Committee also observed consumption of food stuff by the visitors inside the VMH compound, which often generates wastes and affect the environment. The Committee recommends that the provisions should be made for imposition of strict fines for offences committed by the visitors for littering, spitting, smoking, using plastic carry bags, and also consumption of food stuff inside the VMH compound. Enacting suitable legislation, or amendment of the existing legislation, if required, should be considered. Else, suitable administrative orders should be issued by the VMH authority to this effect.

Drainage Drainage and sewerage lines of the VMH compound was found clogged and choked [Exhibit 5.3]. The Committee recommends that the VMH authority should take measures, through appropriate agency, for cleaning of the sewerage and drainage lines. The authority should also ensure proper maintenance so that wastewater conveyed through the sewerage and drainage lines attains self-cleansing velocity.

Water supply The Committee noted that presently water is drawn through two bore wells which are not affected with arsenic contamination. This water is used for flushing of toilets, watering the garden, replenishing the water bodies, etc. All other bore wells have been abandoned due to arsenic contamination. As Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) does not supply potable water to the VMH, at present the VMH authority gets supply of drinking water in tankers through the Kashi Vishwanath Seva Samity.

The Committee recommends that abstraction of ground water by the VMH authority should be totally stopped. Further, KMC should ensure and expedite steady supply of drinking water. The VMH authority, through appropriate agency, should make safe arrangement for storage and distribution (within the Hall and the Compound) of drinking water as required.

The Committee recommends that necessary actions should be taken by the VMH authority for improved management of the waterbodies, so that algal growth does not occur. The water bodies should not be used for human activity and recreational activities. Chapter 6

Influence Zone of the Victoria Memorial Premises

The environment of the VMH compound including the building is affected by the outside activities as well. Some of these are discussed below -

Parking of vehicles The Committee noticed parking of a large number of tourist and chartered buses, outside the Victoria Memorial Hall compound on the southern, northern and eastern side, just adjacent to the boundary wall. The parking activity adds to pollution load around the VMH [Exhibit 6.1].

The Committee recommends that the parking of vehicles on all sides of the Victoria Memorial Hall compound should be totally banned.

Buffer zone and landscaping The Committee noticed that just outside the VMH compound, on the eastern and southern side, various fairs take place just along the boundary wall of the compound throughout the winter months. Different activities in the fair create additional environmental problems around the VMH compound. Recently the Hon’ble High Court, Calcutta, in its order of 27.11.2003, directed that no permission should be given for holding any fair & mela after 14.04.2004 without the leave of the Hon’ble Court.

The Committee recommends that no fairs should be allowed to take place on any side of the VMH compound. The space that becomes available (on the eastern and southern side outside the VMH compound) should be designed as 'Park' with appropriate landscaping. As there is no such space available outside the VMH compound on the western side, the VMH authority should examine in providing a green buffer zone of trees inside its compound. Further, the VMH authority should initiate discussion with the Botanical Survey of India, or appropriate organization for necessary suggestions and advice for better management of the existing trees and also for new plantations.

The Committee recommends that the HRBC and/or appropriate authority should take immediate action to remove that elevated portion.

Traffic The VMH is located amidst busy urban areas with busy roads running all around its compound, traffic congestion and long detention of vehicles at traffic signals at roadway intersections. These definitely increase the load of vehicular pollution [Exhibit 6.1].

The Committee recommends that an auto-manual traffic signal system should be provided on all the intersections around the VMH compound, and be synchronised with each other for better and smooth flow of vehicles with minimum detention period. The movement of heavy vehicles should also be restricted on Pranabananda Sarani in West, Queen's Way in North, Cathedral Road in East and A. J. C. Bose Roadin South for 24 hours. There should be cautionary Sign Boards of appropriate size, depecting "ban on the movement of Heavy Vehicles for 24 hours" that should be installed on the four corners of the outside premises of the VMH compound. There should be strict vigilance on traffic management of the above mentioned roads by the Kolkata Traffic Police Department. Accordingly suitable action plan should be prepared. Leaves burning It was reported to the Committee that dry leaves are often burnt in heaps at a number of locations in the near vicinity of the VMH compound which generate profuse smoke and air pollutants like particulate matters, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, sulphur dioxide, notrogen oxides, etc., which depending on the wind direction get transported to reach the monumental structure of the VMH and affect it adversely.

General Issues

Other than the specific matters discussed in earlier chapters, the Committee felt that certain issues should be considered for long time sustainable development of the VMH. At present, there is no expert committee to advise VMH authority for conservation and restoration of the heritage building. The Committee recommends that an Expert Committee should be formed to advise the VMH authority, at periodical interval, regarding conservation and restoration of the heritage building. The members may, inter alia, comprise of the following -  A structural engineer with specialization in conservation and restoration of heritage building  An architect with specialization in conservation and restoration of heritage building  Representative from National Research Laboratory for the Conservation of Cultural Property, Govt. of India, Lucknow  Representative from National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, Govt. of India, Nagpur  Representative from the Department of Environment, Govt. of West Bengal / West Bengal Pollution Control Board  Representative from reputed NGO working in the field of environment  The Secretary and Curator - Victoria Memorial Hall - Convenor

The Committee observed that setting up structure and/or facility within the VMH compound for commercial amusement and recreational activities will adversely impact the environment, and will not be in consonance with the existing local ambience, and increase the visual pollution. The Committee recommends that no structure and/or facility should be built within the VMH compound for the purpose of amusement and recreational activities. However, the Committee found that the VMH being an eminent centre of art and culture focusing on the heritage of 17th-20th century India and Bengal, lacks several modern facilities like space/facility up to international standard for visiting exhibitions ; space/facility for education, research, lecture, library, meeting/reception, and space/facility to serve the public visiting the VMH. The Committee suggests that the VHM should enhance its existing facility to take a shape of an eminent centre of art and culture of international standard. The feasibility of building visitors' centre and exhibition area in a separate building within the VMH compound to provide the above mentioned facilities should be explored. In any case, this should not disturb the existing landscape, and should also be in consonance with the existing ambience and compatible with the existing architecture of the monument. Report of the Committee on Victoria Memorial Hall

Exhibits Exhibit 2.1a: Maintenance and conservation work by ASI

Exhibit 2.1b: Maintenance and conservation work by ASI Exhibit 2.1c: Maintenance and conservation work by ASI

Exhibit 2.2: Seepage from staff toilet of Administrative Unit of the VHM authority Exhibit 4.1a: Ugly green patches on affected stone

Exhibit 4.1b: Ugly green patches on affected stone Exhibit 4.1c: Affected mortar joints

Exhibit 4.1d: Growth of small plant from joint of stones Exhibit 5.1a: Morning visitors before 0700 hours Exhibit 5.1b: Morning visitors before 0700 hours

Exhibit 5.1c: Morning visitors before 0700 hours Exhibit 5.1d: Morning visitors before 0700 hours

Exhibit 5.1e: Morning visitors before 0700 hours Exhibit 5.1f: Morning visitors before 0700 hours and their activities

Exhibit 5.1g: Morning visitors and their activities before 0700 hours Exhibit 5.1h: Morning visitors and their activities before 0700 hours

Exhibit 5.1i: Morning visitors and their activities before 0700 hours Exhibit 5.1j: Morning walkers and stray dogs before 0700 hours

Exhibit 5.1k: Sweeping and cleaning during morning hours (aroud 0730 hours) Exhibit 5.1l: Garbage collected after sweeping and cleaning

Exhibit 5.2: Hawkers and crowd during daytime Exhibit 5.3a: Ban on use of plastic carry bags

Exhibit 5.3b: Ban on use of plastic carry bags Exhibit 5.3c: Ban on use of plastic carry bags

Exhibit 5.3d: Use of plastic carry bags Exhibit 5.3e: Use of plastic carry bags

Exhibit 5.3f: Use of plastic carry bags Exhibit 5.4a: Electrical cables that deface the building

Exhibit 5.4b: Electrical cables through drainage pipes causing choking of drains Exhibit 5.5a: Human use of waterbody that affects the water quality around noon

Exhibit 5.5b: Clothes spread for drying after washing on water body around noon Exhibit 5.5c: Discarded plastic carry bags floating on water body

Exhibit 5.5d: Discarded plastic carry bags floating on water body Exhibit 6.1: Parking of vehicles outside the VHM compound ANNEXURES

(For Annexures please contact WBPCB Library)