BETWEEN LOSS, LIMBO & LATE REVIVAL

Vadodara's heritage stands at crossroads—some monuments lost, others crumbling in neglect, while a few finally inch towards restoration after years of apathy. Prashant Rupera reports Nyay Mandir: Awaiting Meaningful ReuseA striking Indo-Saracenic structure built during the reign of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, continues to stand as a reminder of the city's rich judicial and architectural legacy. The structure ceased functioning as a court complex in 2018 after judicial operations were shifted to a new facility. Since then, the building has remained largely unused, slipping into gradual neglect. Concerns over its deteriorating condition, encroachments and absence of a clear conservation roadmap have been repeatedly raised by heritage enthusiasts and the legal fraternity. Despite its prominence, the structure has spent nearly eight years in limbo. Only recently have authorities initiated some groundwork. Encroachments around the premises have been cleared, and plans are being drawn to integrate the structure into a larger heritage and tourism precinct. Railway saloon: Erased Overnight Vadodara has already lost a significant chapter of its heritage with the demolition of the historic railway saloon shed, a relic of the Gaekwadi era that once symbolised royal mobility and the city's railway legacy. Built in the 1880s by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, the red-stone structure housed royal saloon coaches used for travel between Baroda and Bombay. It featured arched windows, terracotta-tiled roofing and exposed brickwork supported by steel trusses. Despite its historic significance, the structure remained neglected for years. Multiple proposals—including plans to convert it into a city museum—never materialised. In 2017, it was razed overnight for the bullet train project.Mandvi: A historic heart awaiting careA 16th-century four-storey pavilion that once served as the ceremonial gateway to the fortified town was built during the reign of Sultan Muzaffar Shah III in Mandvi and later shaped under the Gaekwads. The structure reflects a blend of Sultanate and Maratha architectural influences. Historically, Mandvi functioned as a watchtower, toll collection point and venue for royal announcements. Today, it suffers from cracks in pillars, weathered surfaces and structural weakening. Constant exposure to pollution and heavy traffic has further aggravated its condition. Although temporary reinforcements have been installed and restoration plans proposed, progress has been slow and fragmented.Laheripura Gate: Restored, yet still in distressOne of the four historic entry points to walled city, it continues to reflect the challenges of inconsistent conservation. Built in 1558 and later enhanced during the Gaekwadi era, the gate is known for its distinctive Maratha-Rajput architectural style, featuring arches, a chhatri and ornamental jharokhas. Once a vibrant entry point witnessing trade and processions, parts the gate collapsed in 2013, prompting restoration by the ASI and completed around 2016. However, in 2021, sections of the roof and slabs collapsed again, raising concerns over the quality and durability of restoration efforts. Since then, little visible progress has been made on comprehensive repairs, even as the gate continues to endure heavy traffic in a congested urban environment.