Torna Fort, also known as Prachandagad, holds great historical and cultural significance in Maharashtra, India. It was the first fort captured by the legendary Maratha king, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, in his quest for ‘swarajya’ or self-rule. Situated in Velhe, approximately 60km southwest of Pune, Torna Fort stands tall at an elevation of 1,403 meters, attracting numerous trekkers and history enthusiasts.
Over the years, the main entrance of the fort, known as Binni Darwaja, had suffered from significant deterioration. Recognizing the urgent need for repairs, the state archaeological department took charge of the restoration project, which commenced in December of last year.
Led by the diligent efforts of the department, the repair work on Binni Darwaja has been successfully completed. Vilas Wahane, the assistant director of the state archaeological department, expressed his satisfaction, stating, “The structure is now safe, as we have thoroughly inspected the repair work.”
The restoration work was carried out by a reputable agency based in Satara, renowned for its conservation efforts on various forts across the state. The magnitude of the task undertaken by the skilled masons and laborers cannot be understated. Enduring the scorching heat, they meticulously installed over 2,000 stones at the base of the fort. Each stone weighed more than 15kg, making it a physically demanding endeavor. To transport these heavy stones to the fort, the workers ingeniously set up a pulley system that extended 1,100 meters deep into the valley.
In addition to the restoration of Binni Darwaja, the department has taken steps to enhance visitor safety by installing iron railings along the steep pathway leading to the fort. This was an arduous and challenging task, as the team had to dig holes in the hard rocky surfaces to securely fix the iron bars. The newly installed railings will provide support for visitors as they ascend the fort, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience.
A dedicated team of 15 workers and five technicians toiled on this task for several weeks, demonstrating their commitment to preserving the historical treasure that is Torna Fort. However, the repair work does not end here. The state archaeological department has plans to undertake further restoration projects post-monsoon, which will include repairing the temple, water tanks, and pathways. These additional repairs are expected to be completed by the end of this year, further preserving the fort’s heritage and improving visitor experiences.
Umesh Zirpe, a veteran mountaineer from Pune, emphasizes the importance of responsible trekking and the need for caution, particularly during the monsoon season. He advises amateur trekkers not to venture into unknown routes, as old structures may be prone to collapse. Zirpe suggests that the archaeological department should identify and mark such areas for the safety of visitors, promoting responsible exploration while safeguarding historical sites.
The restoration of Torna Fort’s Binni Darwaja and the installation of railings along the steep pathway stand as commendable achievements. These efforts not only preserve the rich history and culture associated with the fort but also ensure the safety and enjoyment of future visitors. Torna Fort continues to be a testament to Maharashtra’s glorious past, inviting adventurers to embark on a journey through time while appreciating its majestic beauty.
