The state’s public works department (PWD) is expected to commence the construction work of a 2.5-km approach road to the historic Sinhagad fort in next two weeks. The department has completed the tendering process for the project that will ensure a better commute to the fort for vehicle users.
The fort is a popular destination for visitors from Pune and adjoining areas as well as tourists from other places. In fact, the forest department annually earns a revenue of Rs 10 lakh from visitors/tourists.
“People often complain of poor road conditions and absence of adequate amenities at the fort. Our endeavour is to improve the road condition, construct more toilet blocks and other required amenities at the fort in the coming months’,” said a senior forest department official. The forest and the PWD departments are in the process of introducing more safety measures at the frequently-visited spots.
“There are a few places on the fort where safety measures such as metal railings, steps and caution boards are needed. Work on this will also start soon,” said another PWD official. The PWD will also repair a 2km road stretch from the foothills of the Sinhagad fort, which is currently riddled with potholes.
Chaintany Kale, a regular trekker to the fort, said the government ought to promote fort tourism on the lines of the Rajasthan government. “This initiative will not only maintain the sanctity of the fort but also generate income for local villagers,” he said.
Professor Bhalchandra Birajdar, of the College of Engineering Pune’s civil engineering department, cautioned that the geographical conditions of the area warrant exceptional quality-control measures. “Constructing a concrete road is a long-term solution. However, considering the geographic conditions of the area, one must maintain high quality-control measures during the construction,” he said.
Source : TOI