(News) Jhansi Fort first in UP to be solar-lit

To increase the footfall of tourists visiting Jhansi Fort, the Uttar Pradesh New and Renewable Energy Development Agency (UPNEDA) will take up the task to illuminate the historical site with solar lights.

Earlier, Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy had directed that historical monuments be lit up with solar lamps. The work on illuminating Jhansi Fort is expected to begin in July. Once completed it will become the first historical site in UP to be illuminated by solar power. “The project will not only save power but will also see optimum use of green energy,” said A K Singh, Senior Project Officer (Solar lighting), UPNEDA.

The monuments which will be illuminated under this project include Agra Fort, Taj Mahal Complex, Fatehpur Sikri Complex and Lucknow’s Residency Complex. Each monument will get Rs 25 lakh for this purpose.

The UPNEDA will invite consultants for preparing a Detailed Project Report between May and June. “We have also written to the ASI for necessary clearance and support for the project,” said Singh. If required, the solar panels will be replaced after five years. The maintenance expenses will be borne by the district administration or the tourism department, which will be managed through the ticket sales.

Courtesy: http://www.indianexpress.com