Surat: The Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) has proposed a comprehensive renovation and modernization of the Sanjeev Kumar Auditorium located in the Pal area, with an estimated cost of ₹23.41 crore. The proposal has been placed before the Public Works Committee for approval.

The Sanjeev Kumar Auditorium holds significant importance for the city’s residents. However, due to structural and maintenance issues, urgent repairs have become necessary. The auditorium’s false ceiling reportedly collapsed twice in November 2024 and March 2025. In addition, leakage from the terrace due to cracks has caused rainwater seepage, resulting in further damage to the ceiling. The seating arrangements and acoustic system also require extensive repairs and upgrades.

Keeping these concerns in mind, the civic body has decided to undertake renovation work in phases. The proposed expenditure includes ₹7 crore for civil works, ₹5.07 crore for interior works, ₹1.72 crore for the HVAC system, and ₹86 lakh for the stage lighting system. A proposal detailing these works has been submitted to the Public Works Committee.

A preliminary provision of ₹50 lakh has been made in the SMC budget for the financial year 2026–27 for the project. The renovation has been included under the Swarnim Jayanti Mukhyamantri Urban Development Scheme 2025–26. DeshGujarat