Jamnagar: The restoration of the heritage structure Bhujiyo Kotho in Jamnagar is likely to be completed within the next 6 months.

Bhujiyo Kotho was damaged in the 2001 Gujarat Earthquake. Its head, wider than 12 feets had fallen inside during the earthquake. Jamnagar Municipal Corporation (JMC) had made MoU with the archeological department for the restoration of the Bhujiyo Kotho preserving its historical value. The restoration worth Rs 24 crore cost started in 2021. The project work is 80 percent completed at present.

JMC vacated 7 shops last month and removed them to pave a way for the restoration work. A 3-floor length base to support Bhujiyo Kotho will be set up at their place. Architect Naishadhbhai Tank informed that 40 to 50 workers are working to restore around 250 portions, elements and jharokhas with carvings. A coating of a plaster made from a mixture of Gud, Methi, guggul, gum and marble powder and so on will be applied to it as per Halari traditional construction method called Otho Dongo. The work is likely to take 4 to 6 months more to complete.

Bhujiyo Kotho construction was started during the reign of Jam Ranmalji (second) in 1826 before 197 years. It was completed after 13 years in 1839. The 42-meter high Bhujiyo Kotho was the tallest building of the state at that time. DeshGujarat