Temporary fencing put up by the ASI along the cleared stretch near the Fort Gateway (Main Guard Gate) in Tiruchi on Friday, following the removal of encroachments as directed by the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court.
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Tiruchi Circle, has removed encroachments around the historic Fort Gateway (Main Guard Gate) in compliance with directions issued by the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court.
The clearance drive, carried out on Friday, December 5, followed Order No. 13745/2023, which called for the removal of long-pending encroachments around the protected monument. Officials said the ASI team, assisted by Tiruchi Corporation and the city police, took up work on the north-western and western sides of the Fort Gateway, where structures remained in violation of monument protection norms.
The joint operation involved clearing temporary and semi-permanent obstructions that had accumulated over the years, limiting access around the gateway and raising concerns over conservation efforts. Corporation personnel provided logistics support, while police were deployed to regulate movement and ensure smooth execution of the court-mandated exercise.
Following the removal, the ASI erected temporary fencing along the cleared stretches to prevent fresh encroachments and to demarcate the protected area until a more permanent boundary arrangement is finalised.
Officials said the action marked significant progress in enforcing heritage protection guidelines and complying with the Court’s directive.
Published – December 06, 2025 07:30 pm IST
