Amreli: The reconstruction of the historic Rajmahal Palace of Amreli was initiated by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel about one and a half months ago. This historic Gaikwadi-period building is undergoing extensive renovation at a cost of over Rs. 25 crore using traditional methods and implementing all necessary safety measures to prevent risks to life and property.

Located in the heart of Amreli city, this palace had fallen into a dilapidated state. The restoration aims to revitalize the Rajmahal as a focal point for Kakkavarasa’s development.

Built 132 years ago, in 1892, during the reign of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad of Vadodara, each floor of the two-storey palace stands at an impressive height of 10 to 12 meters. During the princely period, the palace hosted the ‘Kakkalok-Darbar,’ where justice was administered. Following India’s independence in 1948, the building served as the location for government offices, including the District Collector’s Office and District Court.

In the courtyard stands a bronze statue of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. As part of efforts to restore this heritage site, Gujarat Tourism Corporation Ltd. has launched the ‘Conservation and Development of Rajmahal’ project for Amreli, with Rs. 25 crore sanctioned by the state government.

The renovation includes careful dry-cleaning of the interior and exterior, roof waterproofing, structural strengthening with limestone, plaster repairs, heritage lighting, restoration of the wooden roof, and the development of the surrounding area, including parking and garden space. To preserve authenticity, traditional materials—such as dolomite, fenugreek, urad dal, lime, and jaggery—are being used instead of cement.

Renovation efforts are currently in full swing, with stringent safety measures in place to protect the large workforce and ensure the security of nearby offices, including the District Sewasadan, Collector’s Office, District Court, Planning Office, Treasury Office, and City Police Station.