Pune: 20,000 Sq. Ft of Illegal Constructions Demolished at Sinhagad Fort; Fort to Reopen for Tourists from June 5, Access Allowed on Shivrajyabhishek Day
Pune: Sinhagad Fort, which had been closed to tourists for the past five days due to encroachments and the risk of landslides, is now set to reopen. With the majority of the clearing and safety work completed, the fort will be accessible to visitors from June 5. Tourists will also be allowed to visit on June 6, the day of Shivrajyabhishek, as per Haveli Sub-Divisional Officer Yashwant Mane.
Large-scale illegal constructions, including RCC and stone structures, had come up on the fort. In addition, certain areas along the approach road were deemed prone to landslides, especially during the monsoon. To ensure safety and enable the removal of debris, entry to the fort was restricted starting May 29.
During the closure, the Forest Department took action against unauthorized structures, including stalls, homes, and hotels. Approximately 20,000 square feet of illegal construction was demolished.
Sub-Divisional Officer Yashwant Mane stated that the entry ban was imposed to prevent harm to tourists and ensure the smooth execution of the demolition drive. “The clearing of debris will be completed by Tuesday and Wednesday. Following that, the fort will be reopened to tourists from June 5. Special arrangements have also been made to allow visitors on June 6 for Shivrajyabhishek Day,” he added.
