States » WestPosted at: Oct 30 2026 10:26PM

Mumbai, Oct 30 (UNI) In a major policy push aimed at conserving historical landmarks and coastal ecosystems, the Maharashtra government has announced a series of key heritage restoration, security, and urban beautification projects across the state.
Under the state Cultural Affairs Department’s 'Vaibhav Sangaman Yojana', the RPG Foundation has officially adopted the historic Sewri Fort for ongoing maintenance and restoration. As part of the project, a museum and information center will be constructed on the fort premises to showcase its history, culture, environment, and close association with Mumbai’s maritime heritage.
Addressing the issue of institutional funding for heritage sites, Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar announced that the Mahayuti government has decided to reserve 3 per cent of funds from the District Planning Development Committee (DPDC) exclusively for the conservation of forts and temples. All restoration works under this initiative will receive technical approval from the State Archaeology Department.
In a key security measure, the state government has approved the deployment of dedicated security personnel across four major UNESCO-listed forts—Pratapgad, Rajgad, Salher, and Khanderi—to prevent illegal activities and vandalism. A total of 80 guards from the Security Guard Board will be stationed at these sites, with each fort assigned 19 security personnel and one supervisor.
Simultaneously, heritage conservation efforts at South Mumbai's historical Banganga Tank precinct are progressing rapidly. Alongside physical preservation work, the project emphasizes community involvement, having provided specialized skill training in entrepreneurship, tailoring, and healthcare management to over 150 local women.
Through various cultural initiatives, over 500 tourists have been engaged with these heritage landmarks. Similar restoration and beautification drives are underway at Worli Fort and Worli Koliwada, where over 71 streetlights, 30 information signages, and seven public murals depicting local culture have already been installed.
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