Jammu: One of the oldest forts in Jammu region, Krimchi Fort, is soon to be declared as a ‘heritage site’, paving the way for its conservation, for which it was craving for long.As per the official document available with The News Now, Dr Sangeeta Sharma, Assistant Director, Archives, Archaeology, and Museums, Jammu, has written to the Department for declaration of Krimchi Fort as ‘heritage site’.It reads, “Krimchi fort is one of the oldest forts in Jammu region situated on a hillock in village Krimchi, Udhampur. The fort in its pristine glory was a symbol of pride for the Rulers of the region. The fort is by and large in a good condition but shall not remain so for long, if left un-attended. The inhabitants of the area have approached this office for declaration of the monument as a heritage site so that necessary upkeep and restoration of this great monument of historical value can be ensured. You are therefore requested to take up the matter with higher authorities for the declaration of the Krimchi Fort as a ‘heritage site’.” The fort also called ‘Bhutial Ka Qila’ is located at Garh Top, commands a beautiful view of the surrounding areas, mountains, meadows, river and Pandava temple complex. Built by Bhutial Dynasty, it houses an ancient temple dedicated to Mahakali. Adopted by Patnitop Development Authority since 2013, the fort is generally in a good condition, but suffers from neglect of tourism promotion and infrastructure development.Following the declaration as ‘heritage site’, the monument will be governed by Ancient Monument Preservation Act 1920 (Amendment 2010). The Department of Archives, Archaeology, and Museums J&K can take over its restoration and conservation.It is pertinent to mention that the village Krimchi is already famous for Krimchi temples, also called Pandava temples, which have been declared as protected monument by Archaeological Survey of India. The temple complex attracts a large number of tourists from around the country.
