CHACHOENGSAO: A local fine arts agency defended the restoration of an ancient city wall built in the reign of King Rama III in Muang district, saying the maintenance costing more than 9 million baht was conducted with materials similar to those used in the bygone era.
Methadol Wichakkhana, director of the Prachin Buri-based 5th Regional Office of Fine Arts, on Thursday said the wall was properly repaired in line with the Fine Arts Department’s restoration process.
Bricks used in the maintenance were created based on an original formula used in the construction of the city wall in ancient times, with an aim to conserve the wall in its primary condition.
If left exposed to weather conditions for a couple of years, the wall will return to its previous condition before the restoration, he said.
Mr Methadol commented after more than 30 villagers on Thursday gathered near the city wall on Maruphong Road in tambon Na Muang, criticising that the antiquity and historical charms of the brick wall were damaged by the office’s maintenance, which cost around 9.48 million baht.
Besides, an age-old pond near the wall was also filled up with soil by the office’s workers.
Wasan Suanlert, a 72-year-old villager, said before the restoration, the wall revealed its main structure which was built with red-coloured bricks.
In his view, tourists have been more attracted to the antiquity of the wall which can tell the history of the city.
Moreover, the office should have publicised the restoration of the historical site among the public so the villagers could voice their opinions, Mr Wasan said, adding local communities had no knowledge of the maintenance before.
Mr Methadol said the office earlier set up a tent at the wall site to publicise the restoration but the structure was damaged by gusty winds. He added a team would be deployed to locate the pond at the back of the wall.