Forts & other heritage sites in UP to undergo a facelift

With two-fold objectives of promoting tourism and conserving historic sites, the Uttar Pradesh government has decided to enhance the infrastructure of heritage locations under the Centre's 'Swadesh Darshan Scheme'. Under this project, a sum of ₹33.17 crores has been allocated by the central administration to improve and upgrade the monuments in the territory. Now, the amount will be used for the beautification of archaic buildings, which are striking symbols of the state's golden legacy.

1500 years old Kalinjar Fort to be renovated under the initiative

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Besides restoring and revamping the outstanding edifices, the state government will also undertake measures for strengthening tourists' security at these places. As per the information given by a government representative, a string of historic sites will be renovated across the territory, including the Kalinjar Fort in the Banda district. Touted as one of the largest forts in the country, the Kalinjar Fort has stood through nearly 15 centuries, as a witness to multiple rulers and dynasties.

In addition to this, the structures of Shaheed Sthal Chauri Chaura (Gorakhpur) and Sloam Chaupal in Muzaffarnagar will also be ameliorated through targeted restoration drives. Further, the Martyrs Memorial in Meerut, which commemorates the lives lost during the revolt of 1857 will also be upgraded.

A step towards preserving the state's heritage for the younger generations

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Principal Secretary Tourism, Mukesh Meshram said, "It is expected that work on the ongoing projects at all the sites would be completed by the end of this month. The heritage of a country and state and the great men associated with it are the sources of inspiration for the people there, especially for the younger generation."

While the government has stepped forward for this large-scale conservation program, the onus of protecting the state's rich legacy and heritage falls on the citizens too. Thereby, it is important that we ensure cleanliness and spread awareness about the same every time we visit these monuments.

- With inputs from IANS