BDA to please help complete the museum

10 June 2025

Maj Manivannan,

BDA Commissioner, Bangalore Development Authority,

Kumara Park West, T.Chowdaiah Road,

Bengaluru - 560020

Email: commissioner-bda@ka.gov.in

Dear Maj Manivannan:

Subject: Urgent Attention Required for Museum & National Military Memorial Completion and Inauguration

On behalf of all stakeholders eagerly awaiting the completion of the National Military Memorial, I extend a warm welcome as you assume charge as the BDA Commissioner. We are writing to you with a deep sense of urgency regarding the persistent delays plaguing the inauguration of this significant national tribute.

As you are aware, the foundation stone for the National Military Memorial was laid in 2009, making it nearly 17 years since its inception. While we appreciate that we are closer to the inauguration than ever before, several critical issues remain unaddressed, hindering its official opening and proper upkeep. An annexure detailing some of these historic issues has been separately shared.

One of the most pressing concerns is the Military Museum, a cornerstone of the Memorial. Located underground, it has been largely unattended and uncared for over the past decade. This neglect over 12 years, has led to significant issues, including water leakage and other damages that require immediate attention. We understand from various sources including the architects, that a modest budget of approximately >₹25 lakhs is required to bring it to a functional state. So the BDA, who is in charge  of NMM as well as the NMM Trust and the GoK needs to budget this and set this aside so work commences

Beyond the critical focus of the  museum, several other vital aspects demand your focus:

• Main path Lighting: The most critical issue impacting safety and accessibility is the complete absence of lighting within the Memorial. This creates a dangerous environment, increasing the risk of accidents, injuries, or even serious incidents, as has unfortunately occurred in other dimly lit public spaces. Adequate lighting is paramount for public safety and to ensure the Memorial is accessible to all at appropriate times

• Signage and Displays: The current signage and display elements require significant upgrades and repairs to ensure clear navigation and a fitting presentation of the Memorial's historical significance.

• Repairs and Access: Steps, pathways, and other access points throughout the Memorial grounds are in disrepair and pose safety concerns, particularly for visitors with disabilities..

• Park Maintenance: While perhaps less critical for immediate inauguration, the ongoing maintenance of the Memorial park requires dedicated budgetary allocation and immediate attention to ensure its setting  and sanctity are preserved.

  
  

Given your distinguished background as a Major, we are confident that you understand the profound significance of this Memorial and the honour it represents. We earnestly seek your support to ensure these pending items are addressed with the utmost urgency. Completing this precious tribute without further delay is not just a matter of infrastructure, but of national pride and respect for our armed forces.

Thank you so much for your time and attention to this critical matter. We truly appreciate the effort and focus you can bring to expedite the completion and inauguration of the National Military Memorial.

Sincerely,

Priya Chetty-Rajagopal

Team Heritage Beku

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Note:

The Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) is the body responsible for the construction and maintenance of the National Military Memorial in Bengaluru. The BDA was tasked by the state government to oversee the project, which includes constructing the underground museum, installing grilles, and platforms for military equipment. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

• Construction:

  The BDA was responsible for the construction of the underground museum, the installation of grilles around the park, and the construction of platforms for military equipment. 

• Maintenance:

  The BDA is also responsible for the ongoing maintenance of the memorial. 

• Project Scope:

  The BDA's responsibilities include ensuring the project is completed according to plan and within budget. 

• Challenges:

  The BDA has faced challenges during the project, including delays in transporting and installing the veeragallu (a monolithic stone pillar). 

• Role in Project:

  The BDA's role extends to ensuring the memorial is ready for inauguration and that it meets the necessary standards.