Vikram Ditya Sharma/ Ferozepur
In a major development for heritage and tourism in this border district, the historic star-shaped Ferozepur Fort is set to open for the public soon. The confirmation comes following extensive discussions and correspondence with military officials by Indian National Trust for Art & Cultural Heritage (INTACH).
(MOREPIC1) As per information, the fort will initially be open on Sundays and gazetted holidays from 10 am to 5 pm, allowing visitors to explore its rich history. While talking to The Tribune, Major General Balwinder Singh (Retd) said that trained guides will be appointed to educate tourists about the fort’s significance. “With only two such forts in the world—one in Ferozepur and the other in Netherland—Ferozepur Fort is expected to attract domestic and international tourists, boosting the region’s heritage tourism”, he said.
“Ferozepur Fort has a remarkable history dating back to 1810 when it was constructed by the British. The fort was last ruled by Sardar Dhanna Singh, with its last queen being Maharani Lachhman Kaur. This fort was occupied by the British treacherously through deceit after the death of Lachhman Kaur in 1835 and converted into a British Garrson later in 1839, under the instructions of the Duke of Wellington.
Dr Rameshwar Singh, historian and member of INTACH Ferozepur Chapter said that this fort has served as the mother depot for the supply of guns, ammunition, trained horses and the bullocks. “About 10,000 bullocks, as many horses and even 150 camels were tethered at any one time in the fort. This fort has even mention in events of summer of 1857 (The year of Sepoy revolt) when about 300 native soldiers had scaled the walls of this fort with the help of scaling ladders and with assistance from native sepoy already stationed inside and took control of it. The fort was recaptured by the British troops”, said Dr Rameshwar.
(SUBHEAD)The Fort continued to play the role of Arsenal till 1941 when the ammunition was shifted to Kasubegu as a tactical move by the British at the beginning to World War-II. “This historic fort also finds a mention in the autobiography of Hitler “ Mein Kampf” wherein he mentions about the British ammunition marked with name “Ferozepore” due to which Hitler wanted to destroy the city”, said Dr Rameshwar adding that this fort has been testimony to all the battles including 1956,1965,1971 wars providing logistical support to the Army.
A key attraction within the fort is the grand Raj Darbar Hall, measuring 400x100x50 feet. This hall was historically used for meetings, public gatherings, and major events, and its strong walls still stand as a testament to its architectural resilience.
“Opening the fort to the public will not only preserve its heritage but also generate employment opportunities in the region. It would be a golden opportunity for the upcoming generations to know about his historical fort. Moreover it would also open the gates for the tourists who will be able to visit the fort”, said Shailender Loria a local businessman.
