Streamlining Food Business and Curbing Encroachment with 70 Authorized Stalls at Historic Fort
The forest department’s endeavor to regulate food business and address commercial encroachment at the iconic Sinhagad Fort is nearing completion, with the establishment of 70 authorized food stalls under a corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative. Forest officials have confirmed that the project is in its final phase, with stalls soon to be allocated among the 71 authorized beneficiaries through a lottery system.
The initiative comes in response to concerns over unregulated food stalls mushrooming near the fort, leading to encroachment issues and detracting from the visitor experience. In 2021, the forest department took action against over 100 unauthorized food stalls following complaints from villagers and tourists, highlighting the need for a structured approach to food vending activities in the area.
Recognizing the livelihood needs of local residents while ensuring environmental and heritage preservation, the forest department collaborated with the joint forest management committee for the Sinhgad Fort area to identify authorized stallholders for the newly constructed food plaza.
The food plaza, spanning 1.6 acres and comprising 8 feet by 10 feet stalls, is set to cater to visitors by May this year. Deepak Pawar, assistant conservator of forests, Pune forest division, elaborated on the project’s progress, stating, “A total of 56 out of 71 stalls have been set up with the support of the gram sabha. The project, costing ₹2 crore under the CSR plan, will generate economic opportunities for local entrepreneurs.”
Pawar further emphasized the department’s commitment to facilitating sustainable livelihoods, noting that while stallholders will be charged rent for the premises, fees will be waived for the initial year to support their transition into the new arrangement.
As the initiative nears fruition, stakeholders anticipate a positive impact on local economy and tourism, with the streamlined food plaza enhancing visitor experience while preserving the historical and ecological integrity of the Sinhagad Fort.
