Sat Jan 18 13:49:47 UTC 2025: ## Maharashtra Launches Initiative to Protect Historic Forts from Encroachment
**Mumbai, January 18, 2025** – The Maharashtra government announced the formation of district-level committees to combat encroachment on the state’s numerous ancient forts. The initiative, announced by State Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar, aims to preserve Maharashtra’s rich cultural heritage.
The committees, chaired by district collectors, will comprise representatives from various government departments, including police, local municipalities, and archaeology. Their mandate includes identifying existing encroachments on both centrally and state-protected forts, and developing strategies to prevent future infringements. The state is home to 47 centrally protected forts under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and 62 state-protected forts.
Minister Shelar highlighted concerns about the structural integrity, historical significance, and law and order issues at these sites. Committees are tasked with compiling a fort-wise list of encroachments by January 31st, 2025, followed by a focused removal effort from February 1st to May 31st, 2025. Regular progress reports are to be submitted to the government.
Beyond removal, the committees are responsible for implementing long-term preventative measures. Monthly meetings and transparent reporting mechanisms are designed to ensure accountability and effective preservation of these vital historical landmarks. The initiative comes as a direct response to growing concerns about encroachment on these culturally significant sites.
First Piper 