Taskforce suggests Kala Academy close auditorium for repairs from Aug 1

Panaji: Following an IIT Madras report that flagged several defects in renovation works at Kala Academy, the govt-appointed task force has recommended shutting the 900-seat Dinanath Mangeshkar (DMK) auditorium from Aug 1 for corrective repairs, likely for two to three months.

Task force member Francis Coelho said the closure could affect dozens of performances. “We have told govt that alternative spaces must be made available so that art and cultural activities do not suffer,” Coelho said.

He added that the task force has also asked govt to examine options for recovering the cost of rectification works arising from the earlier upgradation of Kala Academy.

“We have sought accountability. Whether govt recovers the cost from the contractor or asks the contractor to carry out the repairs is for govt to decide. The task force would prefer specialists with the necessary expertise to undertake the work,” he said.

Coelho said the issue is expected to be discussed further with the public works department minister, after which a final decision on the repair schedule and extent of closure will be taken.

Meanwhile, Kala Academy chairperson Chandrakant Kavalekar said an expert team will conduct a detailed inspection of the premises from June 16 to June 26.

“All routine activities at Kala Academy will continue during the inspection. While certain areas may be examined, operations are not expected to be suspended at this stage,” Kavalekar told TOI.

“Once the report is received, we will have a clear picture of the structure’s condition and decide the future course of action,” he added.