Why in news?
Over 60 hectares of private forest near Karnala Fort in Maharashtra were recently cleared without the Union government’s approval, raising concerns about illegal land diversion and environmental degradation around this historic monument.
Background
Karnala Fort, also known as Funnel Hill, stands at 450 metres (about 1,500 feet) within the Karnala Bird Sanctuary near Panvel in Raigad district. Its strategic position overlooking the Bor Pass—an ancient route connecting the Konkan coast to the Deccan plateau—made it a key stronghold through centuries of trade and warfare. The fort was likely built before 1400 during the Devagiri Yadavs and later modified under the Tughlaqs. Over time it passed through the hands of the Gujarat Sultanate, Nizam Shahis of Ahmednagar, Portuguese, Marathas, Mughals, Peshwas and ultimately the British East India Company.
Historical timeline
- Early construction: The Yadava and Tughlaq dynasties likely established the original fort in the 13th–14th centuries. It served as the capital of northern Konkan during parts of this era.
- Sultanate period: Control shifted between the Gujarat Sultanate and the Nizam Shahis of Ahmednagar. In 1540 the Portuguese briefly seized it before handing it back to local rulers.
- Maratha and Mughal rivalry: In the 17th century Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj captured Karnala as part of his campaign against the Mughals and Portuguese. The fort changed hands multiple times before finally coming under the Marathas and then the Peshwas.
- British occupation: In 1818, during the Third Anglo‑Maratha War, the British East India Company captured the fort. It remained under colonial control until independence.
Architectural features
- Two‑tiered structure: Karnala actually consists of two forts—an upper and a lower fort. The upper fort contains a 38‑metre (125‑foot) basalt pillar known as Pandu’s tower, which served as a watchtower. Today the pillar is in ruins but still dominates the hilltop.
- Defensive design: Thick stone walls, steep paths and natural cliffs made the fort difficult to assault. A temple dedicated to the goddess Bhavani sits at the base, adding religious significance.
- Panoramic views: From the summit, visitors can see the Sahyadri range and nearby forts such as Prabalgad and Manikgad. The surrounding bird sanctuary hosts more than 150 species of birds.
Conservation challenges
Despite its historical value, Karnala Fort faces neglect and illegal activities. Encroachment and unauthorised deforestation threaten the ecological integrity of the surrounding sanctuary. The recent clearance of forest land highlights loopholes in land‑use regulation. Conservationists are urging authorities to strictly enforce environmental laws, restore degraded areas and promote responsible tourism.
Conclusion
Karnala Fort is a living reminder of Maharashtra’s layered history and an important ecological hotspot. Preserving both the monument and its forested environs will require vigilant enforcement and community engagement. Protecting this hilltop sentinel ensures that future generations can enjoy its natural beauty and historical legacy.