India, May 31 -- Sir,

The collapse of a 'chajja' on the busy Sayyaji Rao Road a few months ago was a stark reminder that Mysuru's heritage structures are no longer just cultural assets as many are fast becoming a threat to human life.

The time for sentimental preservation alone has passed. What is needed now is a practical and urgent rethink of how administrative authorities manage ageing heritage buildings before a larger tragedy unfolds.

Today, Mysuru finds itself in a worrying situation. On one hand, several old structures are proudly labelled as 'heritage buildings.' On the other, many of them are slowly deteriorating because the system meant to protect them often moves too slowly and lacks adequate support.

There are enough rules...