Govt releases funds for conservation of 3 forts & ancient temple in M’wada

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: Three forts and an ancient temple in Marathwada are set for official overhaul after years of neglect as state govt has released funds for their conservation.The three forts that will undergo conservation are Ausa fort (Rs11.2 crore) in Latur district, Dharur fort (Rs11 crore) in Beed district and Naldurg fort (Rs10.4 crore) in Dharashiv district. The ancient Uttareshwar temple (Rs51.6 lakh) in Dharashiv district will also undergo conservation.
Four separate govt resolutions (GRs) declaring funds for conservation of the aforesaid heritage sites were released by the state tourism and cultural affairs department on Feb 20."The directorate of archaeology and museums had submitted proposals to state govt seeking funding for the conservation of three forts and an ancient temple in Marathwada. The directorate will serve as the nodal agency for the conservation works," a senior official from the directorate of archaeology and museums said.The official fund flow for conservation works has brought cheers among heritage lovers. Sudhiar Pathak, a senior citizen and heritage lover, said all conservation works need to be carried out in a scientific manner. "The norms for the conservation of historical monuments must be followed religiously. The conservation work is different from any other construction work. Any compromise with the laid down standards could cause irrevocable damage to the monuments," he said.