Bhubaneswar: The nearly 2,400-year-old Sisupalgarh, a significant symbol of Odisha’s ancient civilisation and historical heritage, is set to be freed from illegal encroachments.
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has indicated that steps will soon be taken to reclaim encroached land and initiate legal action against those responsible.
Located in the Capital city, the historic fort has been facing years of neglect and encroachment.
Large hotels, residential buildings and commercial establishments have mushroomed around its boundaries.
From Lingipur Bypass to Sai Temple, several structures have come up close to the eastern boundary wall. Similar encroachments have been reported on the northern, western and southern sides, where portions of the protected land have allegedly been excavated for construction.
Once spread over nearly 100 acres, the fort’s land has reportedly been reduced to just a few acres due to illegal occupation.
The situation has raised serious concerns over the survival of this important archaeological site.
The historic Solakhamba, or Sixteen Pillars, associated with Sisupalgarh, is also in a state of neglect.
Of the original 16 pillars, only nine remain, while several others have been damaged or have disappeared. Their whereabouts remain unknown.
The apparent lack of adequate conservation has further endangered the monument’s historical significance.
Residents have long expressed concern over the gradual deterioration of the site.
With the state government expected to initiate measures to remove encroachments and protect the heritage site, locals are hopeful that the occupied land will be reclaimed and Sisupalgarh will regain its lost glory.
