Will set up audio-visual guides in Shaniwarwada: Shekhawat
Gajendra Singh Shekhawat
's visit to Shaniwarwada on Thursday raised the hope of history buffs with his announcement of using technology to enhance the visitor experience.
However, it also brought disappointment to the residents living within 100m of the monument, as he did not announce any relief to allow construction activity in the vicinity.
The Union minister, after his visit to the monument, assured of helping in the restoration work as per the existing rules. "We will use modern technology such as the audio-visual guide system to enhance visitor experience," he said.
According to the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (AMASR) Act, 1958, no construction activity is permitted within 100 meters of a heritage site.
Over 1,000 properties with more than 30,000 residents reside within 100m of Shaniwarwada. They are unable to get permission to redevelop the old wadas, which are in a dilapidated state.
Shekhawat was accompanied by Rajya Sabha member Medha Kulkarni and a few local residents.
The minister, while speaking to mediapersons, said, "The rule is as per AMASR Act. It is not limited to only one monument but is applicable across the country.
I appeal to all citizens to support the govt to protect such heritage sites by abiding by the laws."
Shekhawat visited Shaniwarwada following the request of Kulkarni, who took up the issue of restoration of the monument.
"It is such an important monument in the history of the Maratha empire. We have been requesting the govt to take some steps for its restoration so that the future generations know the history," Kulkarni said.
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