Ban on plastic use at Sinhagad fort; e – buses to ferry visitors
The Pune district administration has taken stern steps against the pollution caused by visitors at the Sinhagad fort. In the recently held meeting at the Council Hall, it was decided to ban use of plastic, private vehicles at the fort while e buses will ply from the base of the fort.
The decision was announced by deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar. Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited e buses will take the tourists from the parking area near the fort which is 9 kms away. Charging station for electric vehicles will also be set up. With both these initiatives, the pollution at the historical monument shall be reduced. The decision of creating a proper place for eateries was also decided in the meeting which was attended by Supriya Sule, Divisional Commissioner Saurabh Rao, Pune district Collector Rajesh Deshmukh and Pune Zilha Parishad CEO Ayush Prasad.
By implementing these eco-friendly initiatives we can preserve the beauty of Sinhagad fort which sees visitors from across the world,Pawar said. He further said, “Sinhagad fort has about 10 acres of land at the base of the fort which is under Forest Department. We shall also set up a facility of washrooms for visitors.”
Pawar also spoke about streamlining the commercial shops which offer food and other necessities at the fort. He said, “Food offered by the eateries operating on the fort is widely appreciated. But the stalls are put up not as per the regular standards. Over 70 families are earning their living by selling food on the fort. The Public Works Department and Forest Department have been asked to construct suitable shops which will look good, won’t harm the heritage structure and look beautiful. Two to three places have been identified where these shops can be erected and shall be given on 11 month rent. Another important announcement made by Pawar in the meeting was that local youths from the area would be trained to become guide. This will generate employment to these youngsters who are good at speaking English, Marathi and Hindi. ”
