Sun Feb 02 13:05:53 UTC 2025: ## Coastal Erosion Threatens Historic Danish Fort in Tharangambadi

**MAYILADUTHURAI, February 2, 2025** – The historic Danish Fort in Tharangambadi, Tamil Nadu, a significant landmark of Indo-Danish heritage, is facing severe damage due to coastal erosion. The erosion, accelerated by shifting sea tides, has weakened protective concrete barriers built in previous years, prompting urgent calls for a more robust solution.

P. Rajendran, Vice-Chairman of Tharangambadi Town Panchayat, highlighted the failure of previous attempts to protect the fort. A concrete seawall constructed after the 2004 tsunami, and a subsequent ₹85 lakh barrier built in 2022, have both succumbed to the powerful waves. Mr. Rajendran advocates for a durable granite rock seawall, similar to one protecting the Tharangambadi fishing harbour, to prevent further damage to the fort’s foundation.

Proposals for funding this protective measure have been submitted to the State government, Tourism Department, and District Administration. While a ₹3.63-crore restoration project is currently underway, conservationists emphasize that addressing the erosion is crucial to the fort’s long-term preservation. The authorities have reportedly said they will investigate the matter.

Built in 1620, the Danish Fort served as a key administrative center, facilitating trade in rice, salt, textiles, and perfumes. Its architectural significance is reflected in the surviving churches, governor’s residence, and schools. The ongoing erosion threatens this important piece of history, underscoring the urgent need for intervention.

Read More