The town of Sultanpur in Uttar Pradesh holds a distinct place not only for its medieval heritage but also for the architectural landmarks constructed during the British era that define its modern identity. Positioned at the very heart of the city, the famous red-stone clock tower, locally known as Ghantaghar, has long served as an iconic symbol of the area. Responding to the building's deteriorating condition, the local municipal administration has initiated a comprehensive restoration plan. With an allocated budget of approximately ₹34 lakh, the historic structure is set to undergo a complete visual and structural transformation.
Modern Upgrades and Digital Clock Installation
Having required urgent maintenance for an extended period, the clock tower is now being prepared for a thorough modern facelift. Under the renovation scheme, the old traditional timepieces fitted on the building will be dismantled and replaced by four brand-new digital clocks. Alongside the modern timekeeping equipment, essential repair works on the red-stone facade and surrounding structure are being undertaken to ensure the building retains its structural integrity while sporting a fresh appearance.
Inspection by Lucknow Technical Team and Project Deadline
To execute the restoration effectively, a specialized team comprising engineers, technical experts, and electrical technicians from Lucknow arrived in Sultanpur on Thursday to inspect the site. The team conducted a thorough survey of the tower to lay out the technical roadmap for the proposed structural and lighting modifications. The municipal administration has set a strict target to complete the entire restoration process by September 20. This deadline has been finalized to ensure that the landmark is fully renovated before the city's major Durga Puja festival and the upcoming festive period.
First Major Overhaul Since the 2007-08 Period
Addressing the timeline of the structure's maintenance, Municipal Council Chairman Praveen Kumar Agarwal stated that the last major beautification drive for the clock tower was conducted back in 2007-08. He noted that over the years, the building suffered from neglect, making structural repairs and clock replacements an urgent priority. He emphasized that the municipal body has now prioritized the project, issuing strict instructions to officials to complete all designated works within the set timeframe.
Architectural Illumination Inspired by National Landmarks
To highlight the clock tower's architecture during night hours, advanced facade lighting system technology will be integrated into the design. Executive Officer Lal Chandra Saroj explained that the dynamic lights possess the capability to shift colors within a matter of seconds, creating a visually striking display after sunset. He mentioned that similar lighting setups illuminate prominent landmarks such as the Parliament House, Signature Bridge, and Kolkata's historic Howrah Bridge. Soon, Sultanpur's central heritage structure will join these iconic monuments in glowing with multi-colored lights.
