Centuries-old colonial Hukitola heritage building situated in the Hukitola reserve forest in Kendrapara would get a facelift to attract adventure tourists under the Integrated Coastal Zone Management Project (ICZMP). Built in the 19th century in the British era, the old colonial building was famous for old laterite masonry structure and its architectural ingenuity. To renovate it, the ICZMP has roped in with Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH), Bhubaneswar centre to preserve its architectural ethos. “The ICZMP has earmarked Rs 1 crore for the renovation work of Hukitola building. The INTACH is a leading organization in heritage conservation work which would take up structural renovation, chemical conservation and documentation as part of the Hukitola development plan,” said State ICZMP PD Dr Ajit Kumar Pattnaik.
“The renovation of the iconic structure would be a landmark in attracting nature lovers. Other visitor’s amenities including boats would be added to make it a memorable destination for tourists. The ICZMP has provisioned funds in this regard and the Forest Department has plans to promote it as an eco-tourist complex after the restoration development work,” stated Dr Pattnaik. The INTACH is expected come up with a document capturing the renovation work. Appropriate signage would also be designed and installed to disseminate complete information on the Hukitola building. A team of INTACH, including conservation experts, archeologists and engineers have visited the site and inspected the condition of the building and the water harvesting structure.