PWD to renovate gutted Govt Central Press

The officials said that the tenders have been passed and the work will be starting from next month. The total cost of renovating the printing press is Rs 14 crore. “For more than 15 years, the building remained in a state of disuse. In 2013, there was a fire accident which damaged the major portion of the building.” said a PWD official. He also added that it took more than a year for the tender to be passed. The building’s entrance has a unique arch design that is not found in any other British buildings in the city, which has been damaged inside the building. The printing press will be renovated which includes refitting Madras terrace, Mughal plastering and strengthening the brick foundation, the official said.

Officials pointed out that while entry of the printing press is being blocked by people who live on the streets, the other side is filled with garbage. The pavements are also used as open toilets which stinks when public pass through the way.

“The renovation will be completed in a year. Once the work is done, the street vendors and those who stay on the street, will be relocated with the assistance of Chennai Corporation,” said the official. The official said that the printing press was established in 1831 which used to produce gun powder for the British, but after independence, the Tamil Nadu government converted it as Central Printing Press to print gazette and budget papers.