Crumbling history: Derelict ancient forts in desperate need of renovation in Cholistan
Upkeep of these historic sites has been neglected since 1955.
Islamgarh Fort in ruins. PHOTO: FILE
BAHAWALPUR:
Forts are a physical representation of our rich cultural history and serve as a reminder to us of the plethora of feats realised by those before us.
In Cholistan, forts which were erected 800 years ago are fast becoming ruins owing to a dearth of maintenance and renovation work by the relevant authorities.
Derawar, Mir Garh, Moj Garh, Rukanpur Phulda, Marot, Bijnot, Deen Garh, Khair Garh, Nawa Kot, Jaam Garh, Bhaagla, Islam Garh, Sardar Garh, and Khan Garh are all forts located in the desert.
The upkeep of these historic sites has been neglected since 1955, which has led to a derelict state of the structures.
Last year, it had been announced by the government that renovation and maintenance work would be carried out soon. Notwithstanding, no activities have been materialised in this regard to date. Arif Saleem, an area resident, told The Express Tribune “If the government will build parks, green belts and inns for tourists near these forts millions of rupees could be generated from tourism.’’
Danish Sharif, another resident, said, “If the government agencies join hands with international non-governmental organisations, then upkeep work can start.”
Usama Moazzam, another resident, said, “Big grounds in the surrounding areas of the forts can be used to install solar power projects and the water reserves can serve to make solar powered turbines.”
Moazzam added the water generated could help maintain and renovate these forts as well as expediting commerce in the area.
Another resident Kamal Joyia said, “If sustainable business points are established it would not only generate revenue for the government but would also open doors to tourists to marvel at the ancient forts.”
Residents called on Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif and the Bahawalpur commissioner to take notice of the situation as well as to devise a plan to restore and preserve these ancient forts.
Published in The Express Tribune, April 1st, 2017.
Forts are a physical representation of our rich cultural history and serve as a reminder to us of the plethora of feats realised by those before us.
In Cholistan, forts which were erected 800 years ago are fast becoming ruins owing to a dearth of maintenance and renovation work by the relevant authorities.
Derawar, Mir Garh, Moj Garh, Rukanpur Phulda, Marot, Bijnot, Deen Garh, Khair Garh, Nawa Kot, Jaam Garh, Bhaagla, Islam Garh, Sardar Garh, and Khan Garh are all forts located in the desert.
The upkeep of these historic sites has been neglected since 1955, which has led to a derelict state of the structures.
Last year, it had been announced by the government that renovation and maintenance work would be carried out soon. Notwithstanding, no activities have been materialised in this regard to date. Arif Saleem, an area resident, told The Express Tribune “If the government will build parks, green belts and inns for tourists near these forts millions of rupees could be generated from tourism.’’
Danish Sharif, another resident, said, “If the government agencies join hands with international non-governmental organisations, then upkeep work can start.”
Usama Moazzam, another resident, said, “Big grounds in the surrounding areas of the forts can be used to install solar power projects and the water reserves can serve to make solar powered turbines.”
Moazzam added the water generated could help maintain and renovate these forts as well as expediting commerce in the area.
Another resident Kamal Joyia said, “If sustainable business points are established it would not only generate revenue for the government but would also open doors to tourists to marvel at the ancient forts.”
Residents called on Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif and the Bahawalpur commissioner to take notice of the situation as well as to devise a plan to restore and preserve these ancient forts.
Published in The Express Tribune, April 1st, 2017.