New Delhi: To promote heritage tourism and re -connect the local people with the region’s military heritage, the Golden Arrow Division of the Army has opened the historic Ferozpur Fort for the first time in two centuries.The fort is located near the Indo-Pakistan border and was inaugurated by the army as part of a comprehensive initiative to preserve national heritage and encourage tourism responsible in border areas.“The re -opening of the Ferozepur Fort not only connects the region again with its stored past, but also re -confirming its identity as a symbol of valor, flexibility and national pride, putting it firmly on the cultural and heritage tourism map of Punjab,” said Major General RS Manral, General Officer Officer Offer (GOC).Explaining his strategic importance, Major General Manral said, “Strategically posted near the Indo-Pakistan border, Ferozepur Fort is a notable example of the 19th century military architecture from the Sikh Empire.” He also exposed the unique hexagonal structure of the fort and strong defensive characteristics as an example of “strategic simplicity of his time”.The Ferozepur Fort has a rich and layered history. Once an important outpost in the Frontier Defense Network of the Sikh Empire, the fort was converted into a British Garrison in 1839 on the orders of Duke of Wellington. Later, in 1858, the British converted it into a major arsenal, establishing features such as a powder magazine, dry gun cotton shop and the ammunition depot.The site played an important role during the first war of independence in 1857 and served as a mother depot for weapons, trained animals and logistics. At its peak, the fort had 10,000 bulls, a similar number of horses and more than 150 camels. Its role as an arsenal continued until 1941, when the British shifted ammunition to Kasubegu during World War II.Station Commander Brigadier Bikram Singh emphasized the emotional and historical significance of the fort. “Ferozepur holds a special place in India’s freedom movement, producing many martyrs and revolutionaries who bravely opposed colonial rule,” he said. “This fort and its surroundings have given birth to a witness to decisive historical events, which symbolizes national pride and sacrifice.,Refruiting is expected to promote tourism in Punjab and educate visitors on India’s military past and freedom movement.
