CUTTACK: Even after eight years of its launch, the Central Government-funded Integrated Barabati Fort Development Project continues to remain in limbo. Even the work undertaken by Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) for restoration of decaying wall of the ‘Gadakhai’ (moat) is yet to be completed.
As per reports, the Central Government under the Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme for Small and Medium Towns (UIDSSMT) had sanctioned Rs 17.34 crore for the project aimed at developing the fort area into a major tourist attraction. On August 31, 2010, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik had laid the foundation stone and it was targeted to be completed by March 31, 2012.
Accordingly, the ASI was assigned with the job to renovate and restore the wall of 2.5-km moat surrounding the 104 acre of fort area with a deadline to complete the work within two years. The ASI officials had started the moat wall restoration work in May 2105. However, the conservation work, which commenced on the western side of the fort, is yet to be completed. Due to lack of proper care and maintenance, a major portion of the moat is now filled with weeds.
Besides, the Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC) had planned to introduce boating facility by converting the adjoining vacant land into mini parks with installation of water fountains to attract more people.
While the Superintendent of ASI, Bhubaneswar Circle, could not be contacted for comment, CMC Commissioner Bikash Ranjan Mohapatra, however, said the project could not able to progress due to tardy pace in moat wall restoration work.
“Out of Rs 17.34 crore sanctioned by the Central Government for execution of the project, the civic body had released Rs 1.5 crore to the ASI for renovation and restoration of moat wall,” said Mohapatra adding that CMC would hold a meeting with the ASI officials to expedite the work. After restoration work, the CMC will go for beautification works including setting up park, installation of water fountains and boating facility, he informed.
Development plan
Rs 17.34 cr sanctioned by Central Govt
Rs 1.5 cr released by CMC to ASI
2.5 km moat wall
104 acre fort area