Heritage panel pulls up PWD over unauthorised changes at Grade-II CTO building

Mumbai Heritage Conservation Committee (MHCC) pulled up state Public Works Department (PWD) for unauthorized alterations at Grade-II Central Telegraph Office (CTO) in Fort.

Alterations include installation of lift shafts and replacement of original heritage windows with wooden frames and aluminium sliding windows, which were never sanctioned.

MHCC notice directed PWD to produce original approvals or halt renovation and seek fresh permissions.

PWD cited a 2017 approval, but MHCC said current work exceeds what was permitted and specifically disallowed lifts and required retention of original wooden windows.

Violations came to light after conservation architect complaints and site inspection by MHCC members.