The Mira Bhayandar Municipal Corporation (MBMC) has decided to relocate the 105-foot saffron flagpole erected atop the historic Ghodbandar Fort following repeated objections from the state archaeology department. The civic body will shift the flag to an open site adjacent to the fort to comply with heritage conservation regulations and prevent further damage to the protected monument.
The decision comes nearly two years after the massive flag was installed on the fort premises without prior permission. The structure, initially raised as a symbolic tribute during a public celebration, quickly became a point of contention between the civic body and heritage authorities. Officials from the archaeology department argued that the installation violated the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, which restricts permanent constructions within protected heritage precincts. The fort, located near the Ghodbunder creek, is one of the region’s oldest maritime defence structures and was handed over to MBMC for restoration under an “adopt-a-monument” agreement. The civic body has since undertaken phased conservation and landscaping works at the site to promote cultural tourism.
However, the unapproved flag installation prompted multiple warnings from the archaeology department, which insisted on its removal before granting approval for future restoration and development works nearby. A senior MBMC engineer confirmed that the decision to relocate the flag was finalised following a meeting between civic and state officials. “The flag will soon be installed at a safe location adjacent to the fort, ensuring both compliance with heritage norms and continued public visibility,” the official said. The flag’s current location has also posed maintenance challenges, as its proximity to the creek exposes it to high-speed coastal winds, leading to frequent wear and tear. “Strong winds cause constant damage to the fabric, making maintenance unsustainable,” a civic source added.
Urban heritage experts have welcomed the move, describing it as a step towards responsible preservation. “Historic structures like Ghodbandar Fort are invaluable to Maharashtra’s cultural identity. Civic bodies must strike a balance between local pride and heritage safety,” said an urban conservation expert. The relocation decision is also expected to help streamline the forthcoming “Shivsrushti” heritage and tourism project proposed near the fort, which had faced delays due to unresolved compliance issues. With the flag’s removal, officials believe approvals for future development can proceed more smoothly.
As cities like Mira Bhayandar evolve, heritage conservation is emerging as an essential pillar of sustainable urban development—one that respects cultural identity while ensuring the integrity of historic sites.