Kollam: Even as efforts are underway to beautify the premises of the Kollam Collectorate, service organisations are simultaneously defacing its walls with posters and notices. A mural project led by artist Ashramam Santosh is bringing the history of Kollam to life on the pillars and walls lining the approach to the District Collector’s office. But these artworks are being overshadowed by visual clutter created by he service organisaions.

The porch wall of the Collectorate building now features a mural depicting the historic Kundara Declaration. On the opposite side, murals have been painted around the relocated notice board used by various service organisations. This board was originally placed on the wall facing the staircase to the first floor but was recently shifted to here.

The ongoing mural work also includes scenes such as the Kollam visit of Mahatma Gandhi and the Kadakkal Rebellion. Artist Santosh is supported by fellow painters Roshan and Mahesh Kumar , both fine arts graduates ,  as well as Gopika Kannan, a school student with a passion for art.

However, while the muralists are working hard to enhance the visual appeal of the building, several service organisations have pasted posters indiscriminately across verandah walls and entry points, extending well beyond the designated notice board areas. This has created a disjointed visual landscape, undermining the initiative.