Maharashtra Cabinet Expands Encroachment Resolution to Protect Monuments

The Maharashtra Cabinet has expanded an existing government resolution to prevent and remove encroachments at state-protected monuments, similar to actions taken at forts. A new state-level committee, encompassing various ministers and experts, will oversee the process, coordinating with district collectors and utilizing district funds.

The Maharashtra Cabinet, under the leadership of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, has extended a significant governmental resolution aimed at safeguarding the state's historical assets. The resolution, initially targeting forts for the removal of illegal structures, will now also cover state-protected monuments.

This decision, reached during a Cabinet meeting, results in the establishment of a state-level committee dedicated to eradicating current illegal structures and preventing new encroachments on historical sites. The committee will be chaired by the cultural affairs minister and will include several other ministers and senior officials, ensuring a comprehensive approach to heritage conservation.

Moreover, district collectors are tasked with collaborating with relevant departments for effective implementation, with funding sourced from district planning and development allocations. Maharashtra's rich heritage, which includes 390 protected monuments and 145 temples, thus receives much-needed protection against unauthorized constructions.

(With inputs from agencies.)