Pune: Junnar to Develop Tourism Plan for 30 Historic Villages in Eastern Region

Junnar, 2nd December 2024: Junnar Taluka, renowned for its rich history and scenic beauty, is set to bolster its tourism appeal with the creation of a comprehensive tourism plan encompassing 30 villages in its eastern region. This initiative is being spearheaded by the Junnar Tourism Development Organization in collaboration with the History Departments of local colleges. The primary focus of the plan is to conserve historical heritage while promoting responsible tourism.

Amol Korde, President of the Tourism and Cultural Heritage Conservation Society in Bori Budruk, stated that the project aims to create awareness of the region’s historical wealth and lay the groundwork for sustainable tourism development.

The eastern part of Junnar Taluka is home to several historic villages along the banks of the Kukadi River, including Bori Budruk, Bori Khurd, Jadhavwadi, and Shiroli Budruk. Archaeological evidence from the Kukadi Riverbed reveals traces of ancient volcanic eruptions and prehistoric human activity, including stone tools and animal remains. Excavations conducted by Deccan College in Pune have dated the volcanic ash to seven million years ago, marking this site as a significant milestone in India’s archaeological history.

Recognizing the significance of these findings, the Bori Budruk Gram Panchayat initiated conservation efforts in 2012 under the leadership of then-Sarpanch Pushpa Korde. The Tourism and Cultural Heritage Conservation Society was established to preserve these invaluable assets, and partnerships were forged with institutions like Deccan College.

A detailed conservation report was submitted to government authorities, and awareness workshops for researchers were conducted. Initiatives such as exhibitions of archaeological artifacts and traditional art, supported by organizations like Shivneri Trekkers and Urvi Sanstha, were held to spotlight the region’s heritage. The 2023 Bori Mahotsav showcased cultural heritage through displays of traditional art, artisanal crafts, and Shivaji-era weapons.

Efforts to establish tourism infrastructure and a museum for the preservation of historic artifacts have also gained significant momentum. Under the guidance of MP Dr. Amol Kolhe and former MLA Atul Benke, a proposal was sent to then-Culture Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar and Girish Mahajan to secure funding for these initiatives.

To facilitate the documentation and exhibition of historical structures in the 30 villages, committees have been established under the Tourism and Cultural Heritage Conservation Society. Local historians and community members are actively participating in identifying and preserving historical sites and artifacts to present them to relevant authorities.

“The goal is to bring global recognition to Junnar’s historical legacy while promoting tourism and conservation across other villages,” said Korde. He, along with Babasaheb Jadhav, has called on individuals interested in contributing to the project to contact the organization.