Fort Conservation in Maharashtra - a community steps forward

Adventure Jul 18, 2013

As part of the Mumbai Historical Sites Cycling Association project to promote cycling to historical sites in and around Mumbai, it was evident that many of the historical sites – especially forts – are in a bad shape, with no conservation or protection against degeneration due to weather and deliberate destruction. In particular, one fort that I visited was Nagla Bunder Fort, which is on the verge of being destroyed by quarrying activity around it. I had written a letter to the Archeological Survey of India to inquire how we could participate and help with the conservation and protection of these forts, and got a disappointing response from them.

Subsequently, I came across this organization – Durg Sanvardhak Sangh, which consists of various private groups that voluntarily visit forts and conduct various activities for restoration and conservation of forts.

Durg Sanvardhak Mahasangh Durg Sanvardhak Sangh

One such group Kille Vasai Mohim based in Thane has been working on fort restoration for over 10 years and has worked on over 115 forts.

Another group Shiv Shambhu Durg Sanvardhak Sangh based in Malegaon has worked on conservation of forts around Nashik. Here are photographs of some of their work:

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These are just a few examples. There are several other groups, and they are all meeting in Pune this month on 27th and 28th of July 2013. Whoever is interested in learning more about these activities should please attend.

The agenda and program details are as follows:

Date: 27th and 28th July 2013

Venue: MSO Bhavan, Bhave High School, Tilak Road, Pune

Timing: