ASI increases security at Tughlaqabad Fort

Tughlaqabad Fort, the sprawling 14th-century fortress, has recently seen an increase in the deployment of security guards in and around the monument to ensure visitor safety.

The number of security guards has been increased as the fort faces challenges such as unauthorised access, vandalism, and visitor safety concerns.

“We have recently increased the security personnel at the monument. Previously, we had 22 guards, but the number has now risen to 30,” said an official of the Archaeological Survey of India’s (ASI) Delhi circle.

The official explained that the increase in security aims to make the monument safer for visitors. “The fort has faced significant security challenges, primarily due to encroachments and structural deterioration. Over the years, unauthorised settlements have emerged within the fort’s premises, compromising its integrity, and posing safety risks. Additionally, the presence of reptiles, such as snakes, has worsened the situation,” the official told Patriot.

Anti-encroachment measures in full swing

The ASI also initiated a large-scale anti-encroachment drive in April 2023, targeting over 1,000 illegal structures, and the drive is ongoing. “More anti-encroachment efforts will continue in and around the monument in the near future,” the official added.

Reports state that to prevent future encroachments, the ASI began constructing a 1-km-long, 1.6-metre-high boundary wall in June 2023. The wall, topped with concertina wire and built with stone masonry, is part of a project costing Rs 5.25 crore, designed to safeguard the reclaimed land.

In addition to increasing the number of guards, security personnel have been deployed at authorised entrances and potential unauthorised access points.

“This includes constant patrolling along the fort’s perimeter to prevent breaches. Many visitors attempt to climb the fort walls, and guards have been assigned to stop them to avoid any untoward incidents,” the official said.

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“We have taken care to strike a balance between protecting the fort and maintaining its accessibility for visitors. Security personnel are being trained not only in monitoring and response but also in providing guidance and information to tourists, creating a more welcoming atmosphere,” the official added.

Balancing mystique and safety

Built by Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq, the fort features countless entry points and hidden passages, many of which remain unregulated. While these architectural elements add to its mystique, they also make it vulnerable to unauthorised access. Instances of locals and tourists using unmarked trails, scaling walls, or entering through gaps in the fencing have raised concerns. Furthermore, vandalism and graffiti have defaced parts of the structure, threatening the legacy of one of Delhi’s oldest forts.

“Modern surveillance tools, such as CCTV cameras and drones, should also be introduced to monitor the vast expanse of the fort more effectively,” said Manish Sharma, a visitor to Patriot.

Tourism challenges

Safety concerns, insufficient measures, and the fort’s location on a hillock have adversely affected the ASI’s plans for night tourism at the site.

In 2019, Tughlaqabad Fort was illuminated by the ASI and NBCC. A 1.5-km stretch at the front of the fort and parts of the interior were lit up as part of a project costing approximately Rs 3 crore. Around 300 LED lights were installed.

“The monument opens at sunrise and closes at sunset. It does not receive as many visitors compared to the Red Fort, Qutb Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, and other attractions. It is mainly popular among couples,” the ASI official stated.

When asked about potential plans to promote night tourism at the monument, the official replied that no such plans are currently in place.

The ASI is currently restoring a waterbody at the backside of the monument, hoping it will attract more visitors.