Kondaveedu Fort awaits makeover

Amaravati: The historical Kondaveedu Fort has been in a state of utter neglect for a long time. Though the government had prepared a proposal to develop the fort, so far, it was not translated into action. If developed, it will become a major tourist centre in the State because it is nearest to State capital in Amaravati.
It may be recalled here that the Kondaveedu Fort was built by Reddy rulers and was renovated by various rulers who succeeded them. Due to its height from the sea level, Kondaveedu Fort was considered as one of the strongest forts. The Ramalingeswara and Narasimha Swamy temples in Kondaveedu, Mulankareswari temple at Aminabad, Siva temple on the hillock and Narasimha Swamy temple are in a state of ruin. Reddy kings used to perform special prayers to Goddess Mulakareswari before going to wars.
There are three tanks on the hillock. Vedulla Cheruvu still has sufficient water and animals come here to quench their thirst. About 5 km plain land is available on the hillock. Reddy kings used Kathula Bhavi (well of swords) on the hillock to kill enemies, but it is also is in a decrepit condition.
Kavi Sarvabhowma Srinathudu worked as an education officer at King Pedakomati Vemareddy’s court. Ancient inscriptions issued by Queen Suramamba, wife of King Prolaya Vemareddy were also seen at Phirangipuram. The inscription was issued on the occasion of inauguration of a tank for drinking water and irrigation purposes in 1415 AD.
According to sources, the ISKCON is constructing Venugopala Swamy temple at a cost of Rs 500 crore near Kondaveedu Fort. Agriculture Minister Prathipati Pulla Rao said, “The government will develop Kondaveedu Fort as a world-class tourist centre to attract more tourists.”
He said the government had engaged an agency to prepare designs to develop the historical fort. He said that they would conduct monthly meetings to review development of historical fort. The Minister said that the government was planning to set up a zoo near the fort and added that they would take steps to revive the past glory of the fort.
Kondaveedu Fort Development Committee convener K Siva Reddy said, “The Kondaveedu Fort is spread over 11,500 acres. There are 57 rare herbal plants available on the hillock.”
He said if the Kathula Bhavi and old temples built by Reddy Rajula dynasty were renovated, it would attract more tourists than Golkonda in Hyderabad. He said that there was a need to desilt and renovate the tanks on the hillocks.
Former MLC and Kondaveedu Development Committee member K S Lakhmana Rao said, “Kondaveedu Ghat road laying work is going on in full swing. Once it is done, it will surely attract more tourists.”
Syam Sundar V L