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Oriental science apparatus Workshop, Ambala Cantt, Haryana

The building was constructed around 1912 by the Banarsidas Charitable Trust, the most famous trust in Ambala Cantt. It functioned as a college for sometime but closed shortly. Since 1939 it was leased to the Oriental Science Apparatus Workshop (OSAW), pioneers in manufacturing sophisticated laboratory and defense equipment. It functioned as the OSAW industry for decades thereafter.

The pre-independence building is a fine example of early twentieth century architecture and exhibits interesting colonial elements. The building has a central courtyard enveloped with rooms and arcaded verandahs. A variety of arches have been used in the arcades and openings. The construction materials are primarily English brick in lime mortar. Iron and timber joists have been used to support the flat brick roofing.

As the factory expanded, many additions and alterations had taken place that were undermining the heritage character. Rain water leakage through the terraces in certain parts had inflicted considerable damage to the roofing system. Rising damp clubbed with poor ventilation were other significant problems leading to damage of brick floors and walls. The building was surveyed and documented in 2004. A detailed condition assessment report and a conservation strategy were also submitted to the client.

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