The state has set up panels to address encroachments on forts, aiming to protect cultural heritage and ensure proper enforcement.
Maharashtra: The state government is taking action to protect its forts. They’ve formed committees led by district collectors to tackle encroachments. This is a big deal for preserving our history.
By the end of January, these committees will prepare a report. They’ll outline how to prevent further encroachments. After that, enforcement actions will kick in. Ashish Shelar, the state minister for cultural affairs, shared these plans on Saturday.
Maharashtra boasts 47 centrally protected forts and 62 state-protected ones. These sites are crucial to our cultural heritage. Shelar emphasized the need for vigilance to keep them safe.
The committees will review encroachments and create lists for each fort. They plan to conduct anti-encroachment drives from February to May. Monthly meetings will help track progress and keep the state updated.
Vinay Sahasrabuddhe, from the Maharashtra Cultural Policy Committee, praised the initiative. He believes it’s a great step for conserving our forts. Rahul Joshi, from Sahyadri Giribhraman Sanstha, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of protecting these sites for future generations.
The new panels will include various officials, like police commissioners and municipal leaders. This collaborative effort aims to ensure that our forts remain a part of our heritage.