Turning the spotlight on the tourism potential of the historical Khammam Fort in the town and the imperative need to preserve it, the Tourism Department organised a heritage walk here on Tuesday.
The walk was organised as part of Paryatan Parv, a tourism promotion drive, as a prelude to the World Tourism Day on September 27.
Collector R.V. Karnan led the heritage walk around the historical edifice generating much enthusiasm among the participants in pursuit of exploring the majestic grandeur of the ancient fort. Scores of youth, including NCC cadets, NSS volunteers, morning walkers and heritage enthusiasts from various walks of life, strolled through the expansive fort gaining an insight into the architectural marvel and its hoary past.
The event served twin purposes — showcasing the historical significance of the fort dating back to 950 AD of the Kakatiya era and sensitising the participants on the need to conserve it.
The venue provided a platform to the organisers to talk about the importance of voting right. The participants, perched atop the fort, displayed placards highlighting the significance of exercising franchise in elections.
District Tourism Officer Suman Chakravarthi apprised the participants of the history of the fort which served as an impregnable citadel during various royal dynasties including Kakatiyas, Qutub Shahis and Asaf Jahis. Some of the participants suggested that foolproof arrangements should be made to prevent encroachments around the fort, declared a protected monument.
Khammam Mayor G. Papa Lal and former MLA P. Ajay Kumar participated in the tourism promotion drive.
Speaking to mediapersons, Mr Karnan said focus will be laid on tapping the tourism potential of the fort, a living testimony to the glorious heritage of the bygone era, and preserving it for future generations. He asked the civic officials to prepare proposals for improving amenities at the spot and maintaining the surroundings in coordination with the Archaeology Department.
