(a) whether the army is utilising and staying in the Fort built by Akbar at the confluence of the rivers Ganga and Yamuna at Allahabad;
(b) if so, whether the Government proposes to relocate them elsewhere;
(c) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor;
(d) whether the Government proposes to permanently allow the pilgrims to visit hundreds of temples and ‘Akshayvat Vriksh’ located in the Fort; and
(e) if not, the reasons therefor?
MINISTER OF STATE (DR. SUBHASH BHAMRE)
IN THE MINISTRY OF DEFENCE
????? ????? ?????? (??. ????? ?????)
(a) Yes, Madam.
(b) There is no plan for shifting the units presently located in Allahabad Fort.
(c) Does not rise.
(d) & (e): Pilgrims are given free access to majority of religious / historical places located inside Allahabad Fort including Akshay Vat throughout the year. There are two ‘Akshay Vat’ trees, one in Patalpuri temple and the other in Ordnance Depot (OD) Fort. Pilgrims have free access to ‘Akshay Vat’ in Patalpuri temple. The tree located inside the OD Fort premises is maintained by the Army. Access to common people / pilgrims inside the OD Fort is regulated due to security reasons.
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