The Mahim Fort complex in Mumbai is all set to get a facelift with the Maharashtra government deciding to develop the historic structure. A meeting to plan the road map has been convened next week at Mantralaya in the state capital. Meanwhile, Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar Thursday visited and inspected the Mahim Fort area. Officials from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), the Archaeology Department, the Public Works Department, consultants from BMC’s Heritage Department and Mumbai police officers were present during the minister’s visit. The Mahim Fort is one of the most ancient structures in Mumbai. The original structure was built in the 13th century by King Bhimdev (Bhimbraj). In the 14th century, the Sultan of Gujarat attacked it, and later, in the 16th century, the Portuguese rebuilt the fort. The conservation and beautification of the Mahim Fort will be executed jointly by the BMC, its consultants, and the Archaeology Department. The Fort spans one acre, while the surrounding open space extends over two acres, making it a three-acre coastal site. The remains found in the area – some dating back to King Bhimdev’s era and later Portuguese structures – still exist within the premises. According to Ashish Shelar, “A comprehensive development plan and policy for this entire area will be implemented under the leadership of the BMC.” Shelar further stated that, along with developmental progress, “the government led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, with the support of Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, is committed to providing citizens of Mumbai with access to accurate information about their cultural heritage and legacy.”
