Surat: Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) is about to complete the works of restoration of the Surat Fort which was originally built in the 16th century. The opening of completed project is likely be scheduled within two or three months. SMC had completed the first phase of the restoration 2 years ago. The first phase had cost Rs 21.73 crores, while the second phase may involve cost of over Rs. 40 crores.

There are two floors above the ground floor in the first building of the fort which includes Information and Orientation Room and British cafeteria. The second building also has two floors above the ground floor which includes Mughal gallery, Dutch Courtroom Gallery, Rampart and Cannon Gun Display. The third building has British, Armenian Gallery and representation of the History of Surat. SMC has made efforts to give the original ancient look to this fort during restoration. The maps and other documents found during restoration will be digitalized and put in the display for the visitors.

SMC Commissioner Banchhanidhi Pani informed that the restoration of four out of five bourges of the fort was completed in the second phase and the works for the remaining last bourse is underway. There was no usage of the cement in the restoration to maintain the old technique of construction using lime mortar. DeshGujarat