MP plans to convert fort into hotel to boost tourism

In a desperate bid to promote tourism, the MP tourism department is planning to allow private investment in a historical monument in Bhopal which is the state's archeological property.

The department has been given nod by the Project Clearance and Implementation Board, headed by the chief minister, in a recent meeting under the new Heritage Tourism Policy.

"The Project Clearance and Implementation Board has given clearance to the project under the new heritage tourism policy," said a top executive in the department of industries.

"The tenders to invite bids from private partners will be floated soon," said a government source.

The plan is to convert Fatehgarh Fort, constructed in 1723, into a heritage hotel. Although Gandhi Medical College runs a guesthouse in the fort, professors and students there are protesting against the decision.

"We strongly protest against the decision," said Anoop Dave, an office-bearer of the Gandhi Medical College Teachers Association.

However, the head of the archaeological department, Pankaj Rag, said from Patna, "The fort will be restored; no new construction will be allowed there."

Principal Secretary (Tourism Department) Abha Asthana and MP State Tourism Development Corporation Managing Director Ashwin Lohani were not available for comment on the quantum of investment.

However, an archaeology expert said, "There is no other way to restore forts and monuments of historical importance because the central and state governments do not have the money to do so. The monuments in the central region are maintained for just Rs 5 crore. Given the situation, is it possible to restore a fort or any monument with this amount ?"