Renovation of Samba fort in limbo
Vishal Jasrotia
Samba, September 19
The Samba fort, an ancient heritage structure which was used as a Government Higher Secondary School for decades, is facing neglect at the hands of the authorities.
The fort was brought on the tourism map in 2008 with an aim to project it as a major attraction under the Ancient Monument Preservation Act, 1920. The renovation of the fort was commenced by the Tourism Department in 2010 but it was halted after a few months.
A fresh series of measures was initiated about a year and a half ago and a detailed project report (DPR) for the fort’s restoration was also prepared by the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH). However, little progress seems to have been made on the ground.
Official sources said besides the restoration and beautification of the fort, the DPR included the establishment of a skill development-cum-vocational training centre, community facility centre, amphitheatre, war heroes’ gallery and the installation of a monumental flag. “The fort is dying a slow death but is yet to get the necessary attention from the authorities. Things have never gone farther than little efforts like official visits, surveys and project reports for the fort’s maintenance. Nothing has done to restore the pristine beauty of the fort,” said Colonel (retd) Sunil Singh Sambyal.
“The lack of maintenance has taken its toll on the fort. The front wall adjacent to the entrance has collapsed and wild growth can be seen everywhere on the premises. The absence of security guards has made the site a haven for anti-social elements,” said Anil Singh of Kehli Mandi.
The fort has the potential to attract a large number of tourists and help generate employment in the area. We have made several representations to preserve the heritage site and bring it up on a par with other tourist spots, but in vain. We request the authorities to ensure the preservation of the centuries-old heritage, he said.
Samba Deputy Commissioner Sheetal Nanda said, “The DPR for the restoration of the fort is not final yet as some changes have been made to it due to technical reasons. We have sent the DPR to officials concerned for the revival. Once the DPR is finalised, the work for the restoration will be started. In the meantime, necessary directions have been given for the repair of the boundary wall, the work on which will start soon.”
