Warning Ignored: Rust and Rain Cause Shivaji Statue Collapse in Maharashtra

Just days before the collapse of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj statue at Rajkot Fort in Malvan, Sindhudurg, a local assistant engineer from the state public works department (SPWD) had sent a letter warning about the statue’s deteriorating condition. The letter, addressed to the Coastal Security Officer of the area, highlighted concerns about the statue’s fragile state due to rusted nuts and bolts that held it together.

The letter explained, “On Navy Day, December 4, 2023, a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was installed at Rajkot Fort in Malvan. The sculptor, Jaydeep Apte, had repaired the statue in June. However, the structure is now in poor condition due to rusting of the nuts and bolts caused by rain and salty sea winds.” This warning was issued on August 20.

The statue, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, had drawn complaints from tourists, locals, and public representatives who were unhappy with its deteriorating state.

The letter urged immediate action, stating, “Therefore, we request you to instruct the sculptor to implement permanent solutions to resolve this issue.”