4 months on, AMC yet to declare

Lokmat News Network

Aurangabad, June 22

To sensitise young generation to our rich and diverse culture, the Aurangabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) had organised a heritage model building contest four months ago. The competition evoked a very good response as contestants from all over Maharashtra submitted their models (replicas).

The contest was open for architects, art students, teachers and school students. Models received from Pune, Mumbai, Nagpur, Ahmednagar, Aurangabad, Beed and other places include heritage structures like Delhi Gate, Makkai Gate, Bhadkal Gate, Kala Darwaza, Paithan Gate, Town Hall, Shahgunj Clock Tower etc.

Aurangabad is known all over the globe as a city of 52 gates, but young generation is not aware of it. So, AMC administrator A K Pandey had moved the idea of organising the model-building contest which evoked a very good response despite coronavirus lockdown. Jury members had shortlisted best models and results were prepared, but they are yet to be announced.

When contacted, AMC cultural officer Sanjeev Sonar said presentation ceremony is getting delayed because of the coronavirus pandemic. Notably, the competition carries first prize of Rs 21,000, second (Rs 15,000) and two third prizes (Rs 10,000 each), apart from 10 consolation prizes of Rs 3,000 each.

"Four months have passed after the contest, but prizes have not been presented yet. As the disease is under control now, the AMC should not delay in declaring its result and holding presentation ceremony. It can conduct a virtual ceremony to present prizes to winners. We all are getting impatient and are curious to know the result as soon as possible," said a group of heritage-lovers.

Meanwhile, efforts to contact additional commissioner Ravindra Nikam, who is also in-charge of the cultural section, proved futile as he did not receive the call.

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Display of best models

The AMC will display prize-winning models at its art gallery in Town Hall. The models are currently in the custodian of Town Hall curator H M Bansal. As models made of thermocol and plastic were not allowed, participants submitted models made of Plaster of Paris, wood, wax, siporex, fibre, cardboard, mount board, metal, stone, marble, bamboo, glass only.