Tata BlueScope Steel Brings Sustainable Change to Sinhagad Fort Vendors
The Sinhagad Fort, located on the Sahyadri Mountains, Pune, recently experienced a sustainable transformation to support its local vendor community while preserving the site’s heritage. As tourism increased at the fort and makeshift stalls began overcrowding the area, concerns regarding conservation, safety, waste management, and the environment were raised.
To address these concerns, the Pune Forest Department entered a partnership with Tata BlueScope Steel (TBSPL) to build permanent kiosks for 70 registered vendors relying on these businesses for their livelihoods. The initiative, launched in 2022, saw land allocated by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation. TBSPL, as part of its CSR mission, designed weather-resistant, modular kiosks that effortlessly blend with the fort’s surroundings.
Although the project was fraught with challenges due to terrain and harsh weather, the project was completed in December 2024. The kiosk’s new steel structures are formidable, as they are foldable, leakage-proof, and include storage for gas cylinders and garbage disposals. This initiative has improved vendor safety, income, and customer experiences while preserving the fort’s legacy.
Priya Rajesh, DGM Marketing & Corporate Communication, Tata BlueScope Steel, stated, “Our journey is deeply rooted in shaping a safer, stronger, and more sustainable India through cutting-edge steel solutions. Through our #ShelterForAll vision, we remain dedicated to creating infrastructure that uplifts communities while creating safe and reliable shelters.”
Image Source: Tata Bluescope