Tue Jul 01 15:56:55 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a rewritten news article based on the provided text:

**Summary:**

The historic Bandstand in Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Bengaluru, is being dismantled for restoration due to weather-induced cracks. An expert committee is overseeing the process, with INTACH handling the dismantling. The wood will be assessed for reusability by IWST and ASI. The goal is to restore the 150-year-old structure, potentially incorporating new materials for durability, with a target completion date of August 15th, 2025, for the Independence Day flower show.

**News Article:**

**Bengaluru’s Iconic Lalbagh Bandstand Dismantled for Extensive Restoration**

**Bengaluru, July 1, 2025:** The historic Bandstand at Lalbagh Botanical Garden, a landmark for over 150 years, has been carefully dismantled for extensive restoration. The iconic wooden structure, a fixture since 1870 when it was erected by the British, has suffered cracks due to weather exposure, prompting the Horticulture Department to initiate a thorough renovation.

An expert committee, led by environmentalist A.N. Yellappa Reddy, is overseeing the project. The committee includes representatives from the Horticulture Department, Public Works Department (PWD), Karnataka Shilpakala Academy, Department of Archaeology, Museums and Heritage, and the Institute of Wood Science and Technology (IWST). The Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) is responsible for the meticulous dismantling process, with each piece numbered for accurate reconstruction.

“As it is a structure with historical importance, we are conducting its restoration in almost the same way ancient temples are restored. Every piece that has been removed is being numbered for reference,” said Ramesh D.S., director of the Horticulture Department.

Experts from IWST and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) will analyze the dismantled wood to determine which sections are salvageable. “They will conduct several tests, like the pressure test, among others, and decide which pieces can be used again. Based on their observations, they will give us an estimate of how much teak wood and other materials are necessary for the restoration, which will then be submitted to the directorate and the Horticulture Minister for approval,” a senior official from the department told The Hindu.

The Bandstand, known for its wooden pillars, seating area, and distinctive roof, underwent a previous restoration in 2004. This time, efforts will be made to preserve its heritage while also incorporating new materials where necessary to enhance its durability against the elements and potential vandalism.

The ambitious project aims for completion by August 15th, 2025, in time for the Independence Day flower show. However, officials acknowledge that the restoration’s complexity could extend the timeline. The area around the Bandstand is currently cordoned off to ensure public safety during the construction.

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