Brick by brick: Gole Market on way to reclaim old glory

At least twenty workers on Thursday meticulously removed additions made to the building over the years, and marked out portions of the original structure that needed attention.

- Paras Singh

The building in question was the 103-year-old Gole Market a two-story octagonal structure designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens in 1921. And the presence of the workers indicated that a project initiated by the New Delhi Municipal Council to convert the British structure to a museum dedicated to Indian women achievers had finally picked up pace.

According to NDMC officials, teams have been formed to remove the "buildup" - additions such as slabs and fittings made by shopkeepers over the years; strengthen the foundation; and retrofit damaged portions.

One of the officials, who asked not to be named, said that as part of the first phase of restoration, workers are trying to retain the essence of the market while, at the same time, ensuring it can sustain the load of modern fixtures.