THANK YOU FOR THE MASSIVE PUBLIC SUPPORT. 

We need to keep collecting signatures...

Save our iconic heritage buildings : Long years of neglect and lack of maintenance  have taken a toll .

Today Pondicherry lost the oldest heritage building on the  promenade. The Mairie -Town Hall building, once a grande dame over the years has been neglected so long, that despite the battle to save it, action came too late. Years of neglect, lack of maintenance over many years,  brought down the central portion. 

We stood on the beach road minutes later, looking at the walls and pillars that stood against a grey, wet sky with pieces of the beautiful inner frescos suddenly exposed to our gaze and to the elements. 

There is a burning sense of urgency that this disaster should not be repeated. We need a sense of urgency and action to save other buildings. These buildings are our history, they together define the character and soul of Pondicherry. 

There are other buildings that are under threat, VOC School, Pensionnat de Jeunes Filles, Calve College, Old light house are amongst buildings that are in dire need of immediate restoration.  The loss the Mairie only tells us we need to protect and save our heritage QUICKLY, before it is too late.

This incident should not be misused to create fear that other old buildings be brought down, citing safety as an issue.  We understand the Government's concern for safety issues and support the fact that usafe buildings be vacated right away but RESTORED IMMEDIATELY and not brought down or left to fall apart.

The fact is world over heritage buildings are being saved and restored. Why not here? We appeal to you to join our voices and  help us by signing this petition to create urgency in saving and restoring these buildings. If we  cherish our city, our heritage, if we  feel a sense of loss, we need to stand up and make our voice heard. Please sign the petition and ask others to sign as well.