In a firm attempt at retaining the historical and ecological authenticity of Sinhagad Fort, the Maharashtra State Government went on a massive drive, dismantling 141 illegal stalls intruding upon the historic site. The operation went on over three days between May 29 and May 31, 2025, with a focus on illegal constructions that compromised the heritage of the fort and forests. Though 32 stalls were declared to be legal and shifted, the drive highlights a determination to protect Pune’s beloved landmark, albeit at the cost of livelihood for vendors.
Mrudula Narale
Pune | June 02 , 2025: The anti-encroachment operation, which began as per a January 20, 2025, government order, was a joint exercise by several departments ranging from the Forest Department and Revenue Department to Archaeology Department, Police, Public Works Department, and Haveli Panchayat Samiti. Headed by the District Collector, the operation temporarily shut down the fort to visitors to allow for the dismantling of illegal structures. The move was spurred by the lack of legal permits for the encroaching market stalls, most of which defaced the fort’s protected archaeological areas and disturbed its ecological balance.
The demolishing action focused on 141 stalls, 66 of which were specifically found to be detrimental to the fort’s heritage nature. The encroachers were provided with advance notice to voluntarily withdraw, but refusal prompted the multi-day enforcement campaign. The Archaeology Department also validated that none of the demolished structures possessed valid licenses, warranting their removal from both historical and forest zones. The operation addressed all the main encroached areas within the fort complex, providing an all-encompassing restoration initiative.
To reduce the effect on legal vendors, 32 stalls were shifted to other locations, with plans for four people to work under one roof. The unplanned demolition, however, has raised alarm among vendors, who, despite getting their stalls at cheap rates, had initially relied on them for their livelihoods. Business losses at the high season have left some at a loss, unable to find quick alternatives, exposing the fine line between preserving heritage and sustenance.
Sinhagad Fort is still shut to visitors until further notice while the cleanup operation is under way. The district administration is appealing for public cooperation and insisting on the need to shield historical and ecological locations like these from illegal encroachments. The fort symbol of the rich history of Pune has been a favorite destination long enough, but wanton commercialization had started diminishing its cultural and natural significance. This work is intended to restore its original state while serving as a precedent for the preservation of other heritage sites throughout Maharashtra. This project exemplifies a larger effort to balance development.
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