Maharashtra Government Launches ‘Strict Vigil on 243 Forts’ to Protect Heritage During New Year Celebrations
Maharashtra Government Launches ‘Strict Vigil on 243 Forts’ to Protect Heritage During New Year Celebrations
Pune, December 31, 2025: To safeguard Maharashtra’s historic forts during New Year celebrations, the state government, along with heritage conservation groups, has launched a special campaign titled “Strict Vigil on 243 Forts.” The initiative will be implemented from December 31, 2025, to January 1, 2026, with enhanced security and monitoring at 243 forts across the state.
The campaign is being coordinated by the Gadkille Sanvardhan Pratishthan (Forts Conservation Foundation) with active support from local authorities, volunteers, and citizen groups.
Maharashtra’s forts, which stand as powerful symbols of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy, have suffered damage in recent years during New Year festivities. Incidents involving alcohol consumption, vandalism, littering, and unauthorised gatherings have raised serious concerns, prompting the need for stricter protective measures.
Under the campaign, volunteers, local Shivpremis, and citizens will jointly monitor the forts in coordination with gram panchayats, police, forest officials, and the archaeology department. The focus will be on preventing alcohol use, defacement, and littering, with immediate action against violators.
Public awareness forms a key pillar of the initiative. Visitors will be educated about the historical significance of the forts, the importance of preservation, and maintaining cleanliness. The campaign also aims to promote plastic-free zones and encourage responsible and respectful celebrations.
Heritage activists have highlighted the importance of public participation for long-term conservation. By combining vigilance with awareness, the initiative seeks to instil a sense of collective responsibility to protect Maharashtra’s forts for future generations.
