MP Medha Kulkarni Seeks Urgent Infrastructure Upgrade at Maharashtra’s UNESCO Heritage Sites

New Delhi/Pune, 8th December 2025: Maharashtra’s UNESCO-recognised heritage forts and cultural sites are struggling with inadequate basic amenities, Rajya Sabha MP Prof. Dr. Medha Kulkarni told the Upper House on Monday, urging the Centre to allocate a special Heritage Infra Upgradation Package for the state in the 2026–27 budget.

Raising the issue during Zero Hour, Dr. Kulkarni said that despite Maharashtra’s strong presence on the global heritage map — including 11 Maratha-era forts recently added to the UNESCO World Heritage list — several sites lack essential infrastructure such as clean toilets, drinking water, information boards, guides, digital facilities, waste management systems, and amenities for persons with disabilities.

She said the newly listed forts under the “Maratha Military Landscapes of India” — including Shivneri, Rajgad, and Raigad — attract large numbers of domestic and international tourists, yet continue to suffer from neglected maintenance. Maharashtra also houses established UNESCO sites such as Ajanta, Ellora, the Elephanta Caves, and iconic structures like Pune’s Shaniwarwada, she added.

Dr. Kulkarni cited her recent visit to Rajgad Fort, stating that toilets were overflowing with waste, and plastic bottles and wrappers were scattered across the premises. In some areas, garbage is burnt, causing environmental damage. She added that the memorial of Maharani Saibai remains neglected, while historically significant structures such as Sanjeevani Machi lack proper information signage.

At Raigad Fort, she said the surroundings of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s samadhi require improved upkeep and enhanced presentation in line with its historical importance. Calling the situation a matter of national cultural identity and global tourism reputation, Dr. Kulkarni demanded urgent intervention from the Centre.

Her key demands include:
– a dedicated Heritage Infra Upgradation Package for Maharashtra in FY 2026–27,
– a comprehensive survey of all heritage sites within the next three months,
– improved infrastructure at UNESCO-listed sites, and
– immediate removal of illegal encroachments around heritage structures.