The restoration work at Pratapgad Fort has hit a roadblock following concerns over the use of incorrect material in the renovation process. The state department of archaeology in Pune has stepped in to address the deviations from established guidelines observed during the ongoing restoration.
The organization responsible for the restoration had constructed an RCC wall to protect the bastion wall of the fort. However, the cladding of this wall with Kadappa stone, a black rock sourced from Andhra Pradesh, has sparked criticism. Historians and experts argue that this choice of material strays from the traditional materials typically used in the restoration of archaeological structures.
Dr. Vilas Wahane, Assistant Director at the Department of Archaeology, Pune, explained that a section of the Pratapgad Fort’s bastion wall had collapsed a few years ago, leading to the restoration initiative. However, the use of Kadappa stone on the RCC wall prompted the issuance of a stop-work order by the department. To ensure adherence to proper procedures and the use of approved materials, the state department of archaeology will take over the remaining restoration work.
In response to the situation, a city-based historian suggested a proactive approach. They recommended the appointment of 3-4 experts from the fort conservation committee to form a monitoring committee overseeing the restoration work. This move aims to address challenges and maintain the authenticity of the restoration process.
