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Time to write epitaph for red letter box

Special Correspondent

NEW DELHI: The familiar red cylindrical letter boxes will give way to more contemporary rectangular steel and fibre glass containers in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Patna and few other select locations to begin with, Communications and Information Technology Minister Dayanidhi Maran said at the closing ceremony of 150 years of India Posts here.

The rectangular post boxes have been developed with the assistance of the Indian Institute of Technology, Mumbai.

The squat yellow post-office buildings will also undergo modifications with the Department of Posts engaging the School of Planning and Architecture to develop suitable features for the facade of postal buildings.

Catching the eye at the entrance to the anniversary celebrations here, the high-quality brush stainless steel post boxes with a fibreglass top have a life of almost 20 years.

The containers will be rust-proof and hence reduce maintenance requirements, according to postal officials. The new boxes would also display clearance timings in a more accessible and readable manner.

"Contemporary image"

"The post box would be in line with the Department's efforts to create a more contemporary, aesthetic and professional image starting from the sesquicentennial year," Mr. Maran said.

Though the shape and size of the letterbox has changed over time, its purpose continues to be relevant. Combining functionality and symbolism — the prerogative of the State as the sole provider of postal services — letterboxes are more ubiquitous and visible than any other symbol of State across the globe.

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