KOLHAPUR (India CSR): Under the guidance of the Maharashtra State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA), the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) of Kolhapur has prepared a first of its kind Disaster Management Plan (DMP) 2024-25 for Panhala Fort, a historic cultural landmark. This marks a significant milestone in safeguarding India’s heritage sites against natural and human-induced disasters.
01
of 09
Palladium’s Role in Developing the Disaster Management Plan
Palladium, serving as the Project Management Unit (PMU) for Maharashtra’s Disaster Management, Relief, and Rehabilitation Department, played a pivotal role in creating the Panhala Fort Disaster Management Plan. Dr. Maniruzzaman SK, Palladium’s District Disaster Management Support for Kolhapur, spearheaded the initiative through extensive research, stakeholder engagement, and collaboration with district line departments.
02
of 09
Panhala Fort’s Cultural and Historical Significance
Panhala Fort, located 20 km from Kolhapur, is over 1,000 years old and holds immense cultural significance for Maharashtra. However, its vulnerability to disasters, including landslides in 2019 and 2021 and recurring wildfires, highlighted the urgent need for a dedicated disaster management framework to preserve its legacy.
03
of 09
Adherence to National Guidelines
The Panhala Fort Disaster Management Plan (DMP) aligns with the “National Disaster Management Guidelines – September 2017” for cultural heritage sites. Approved by Kolhapur’s DDMA, it has been submitted to the Maharashtra SDMA as a reference framework for similar initiatives across the state.
04
of 09
Recognition for Palladium’s Contributions
In his foreword to the Fort DM Plan, Shri Amol Yedage (IAS), Collector and Chairman of the Kolhapur District Disaster Management Authority, acknowledged Palladium’s efforts. “Through detailed scientific research and analysis, Palladium’s team developed the comprehensive Panhala Fort Disaster Management Plan to reduce disaster risks and enhance resilience,” he stated.
05
of 09
Comprehensive Hazard and Risk Assessment
The plan was created following an extensive hazard risk assessment and vulnerability analysis. Historical hazard data and risk evaluations were compiled to design effective disaster response solutions, enhancing the fort’s resilience to disasters.
06
of 09
Short-, Medium-, and Long-Term Measures
The plan outlines measures for short-term disaster preparedness and response, as well as medium- and long-term strategies for disaster risk prevention and mitigation. It aims to protect the heritage site from geological, hydrological, climatic, and human-induced hazards.
07
of 09
Holistic Approach to Safeguarding Heritage
A detailed hazard profile of Panhala Fort’s precinct was developed, considering past hazard events and conservation challenges. This comprehensive approach underscores the commitment to preserving the fort’s cultural and historical significance while ensuring disaster resilience.
08
of 09
Benchmark for Protecting Maharashtra’s Heritage
The Panhala Fort DMP sets a benchmark for disaster management planning for historical sites across Maharashtra. It highlights the importance of protecting cultural heritage while enhancing preparedness and response capacities.
09
of 09
Vision for Institutionalizing Disaster Resilience
The Disaster Management, Relief, and Rehabilitation Department of Maharashtra aims to institutionalize this approach, enabling other districts and cities to replicate the model. This initiative reflects the state’s dedication to safeguarding its heritage and fostering disaster resilience.
(India CSR)
