Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SP)

Mangaluru, Sep 4: Sultan Battery fort built during the British era, which is several centuries old and is identified by the archaeological department as a protected monument, is in a neglected state. The fort is important historically and has a good presence. The government is expected to take care of this fort.

After the lockdown rules were relaxed, the Sultan Battery fort located within the city has been opened for the visitors. Most of the people who come to Tannirbhavi beach visit the fort located at Boloor. There are no checks or verifications for the people who visit this monument. Rarely are any security personnel present, and people can go up the steps and enter the monument without any obstacles or hassles.

People have created graffiti using obscene language, and plastic bottles and bags are strewn around. Stone benches meant for seating have been broken and a small gate on the left side has been locked.

The fort has thick growth of grass and forest around it. Waste has accumulated in between the grass. An iron fencing has been built here but this is gathering rust now. As the weather is saline and humid, iron catches rust faster. The fence needs to be painted at regular intervals.

People visiting Sultan Battery have to turn left near Mannagudde bus stand and move via Urwa market road. The road from Urwa market to Sultan Battery is not in good shape. Thousands of vehicles use this road on a daily basis. Only haphazard patch work has been undertaken on this relatively narrow road. Several manholes jut over the road level here. During the rainy season, artificial floods are formed on this road. As huge trucks are parked at the entry point to the fort, the tourists face problems.

The archaeological department has planted a board about the monument having been a protected one. As per law those damaging, shifting, destroying and defacing or misusing the monument are punishable with two years’ imprisonment and one lac rupees fine. Strangely there are no security personnel to look out for the offenders.

Tipu Sultan had built this fort to watch for the arrival of the warships of the British. There is a facility underground which was used for storing the gunpowder. During the rule of kings, essential items and critical things were secretly stored here. Tragically the fort is now being used for liquor consumption and immoral activities. There is a need to post security men and keep the gate locked. At night, police patrolling has to be increased and the concerned should be watchful to ensure that illegal activities do not take place here.

MLA D Vedavyasa Kamath said that the government will draw up a plan to develop the fort. He said officials will be instructed suitably so that the matter is taken up with the archaeological department for the protection of the monument.