With more than three decades of professional experience in structural restoration, repair, strengthening and redevelopment, Dr. Mustafa Yusufali Gom has been associated with the restoration and redevelopment of more than 500 buildings across Mumbai through Care Takers Exterior & Interior Pvt. Ltd. His second book, Re-Structure Repairs, brings together practical and technical insights drawn from his extensive field experience, with particular emphasis on the complexities of repairing, strengthening and redeveloping existing structures.
The book was officially launched in Mumbai by Hon’ble Governor of Maharashtra, Shri Jishnu Dev Varma, during the National Excellence Award and Wheelchair Distribution Camp, organised by the Varma Foundation and Maitry Peace Foundation. The occasion also marked a significant milestone in Dr. Gom’s journey of documenting and sharing his professional knowledge.
Q: Dr. Gom, congratulations on the launch of your second book. What does Re-Structure Repairs mean to you?
Dr. Mustafa Yusufali Gom:
Re-Structure Repairs is an attempt to bring together the practical and technical knowledge I have gained through more than 30 years of professional experience in structural restoration, repair, strengthening and redevelopment. Redevelopment is a particularly important aspect of the book, as many ageing structures eventually require decisions that go beyond routine repairs and involve evaluating whether a building should be repaired, strengthened, reconstructed or redeveloped.The book deals with these complexities and aims to provide a practical understanding of how existing structures can be assessed and how appropriate solutions can be approached, drawing extensively from real-world field experience.
Q: The book was launched by the Hon’ble Governor of Maharashtra, Shri Jishnu Dev Varma. How significant was this occasion for you?
Dr. Gom:
It was a deeply honouring and memorable occasion for me. Having the Hon’ble Governor of Maharashtra, Shri Jishnu Dev Varma, unveil the book was a privilege. His presence added great significance to the launch and made the occasion particularly special for me and everyone associated with the book.
Q: The launch took place during the National Excellence Award and Wheelchair Distribution Camp. How did this platform add meaning to the occasion?
Dr. Gom:
The event brought together professional excellence and social initiatives on the same platform. Being able to present my work in such a distinguished gathering made the launch of Re-Structure Repairs even more meaningful. The subject of the book is closely connected with the future of our existing buildings and urban spaces. Responsible repair, structural strengthening and redevelopment can play an important role in ensuring that ageing structures are addressed appropriately and that redevelopment is undertaken with proper technical understanding.
Q: You have been associated with the restoration of more than 500 buildings across Mumbai. How did this experience influence the book?
Dr. Gom:
Every structure presents its own challenges. Over the years, working on more than 500 buildings has given me extensive exposure to different aspects of structural repair, restoration, strengthening and redevelopment.
Q: What makes Re-Structure Repairs different from a purely technical book?
Dr. Gom:
The book combines technical understanding with practical, field-based knowledge. Structural restoration and redevelopment are not only about theory; they involve understanding the actual condition of a building, identifying its limitations and determining the most appropriate approach.In many cases, the key question is whether a structure can be effectively repaired and strengthened or whether redevelopment becomes the more appropriate path. Re-Structure Repairs attempts to address this thought process and highlight the importance of making such decisions based on proper technical assessment rather than assumptions.
Q: The book also acknowledges your late co-author, Sanjay Aman Sharma. Could you tell us about his contribution?
Dr. Gom:
Sanjay Aman Sharma’s contribution to this work was valuable. His expertise and efforts formed an integral part of the book. It is important to acknowledge his contribution and remember the role he played in bringing this work together.
Q: You were accompanied by your wife, Mrs. Tasneem Gom, at the launch. How special was it to have her with you?
Dr. Gom:
Having my wife, Mrs. Tasneem Gom, with me on this important occasion made the moment even more special. Sharing such a milestone with family adds a different dimension to the achievement.
Q: You also expressed your gratitude to Shri Surajit Barua of Maitry Peace Foundation. What would you like to say about his support?
Dr. Gom:
I sincerely thank President Shri Surajit Barua of Maitry Peace Foundation for inviting me to this distinguished platform and giving me the opportunity to present my work before such an esteemed gathering. I am grateful for the support and encouragement extended to me.
Q: The programme also included a cake-cutting ceremony commemorating the birthday of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji. How was the celebration incorporated into the event?
Dr. Gom:
The celebrations continued with a cake-cutting ceremony commemorating the birthday of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, adding another special moment to an already memorable gathering.
Q: Finally, where can readers find Re-Structure Repairs?
Dr. Gom:
Re-Structure Repairs is available on Amazon, Flipkart and Amazon Kindle. I hope the book proves useful to professionals, practitioners and readers interested in structural repair, restoration, strengthening and redevelopment.
