An Overview of the Ramkot Fort Restoration Project
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Prior to initiation of conservation work in 1999, the Ramkot fort was lying abandoned for more than fifty years.  Years of neglect had resulted in serious damage to various parts of the structure and buildings in the complex.  Following the collapse of roofs, the accumulated debris and seepage of rainwater into the walls had accelerated the rate of damage.  However, unlike other similar structures in Northern Pakistan where extensive repairs and occupation have altered the basic characters of the buildings, Ramkot fort has escaped intrusive human interventions.  Major sections of the structures including the outside walls are largely intact.  The challenge of conservation is to restore the fort in a manner that it truly represents the series of similar structures of the period in which it was built.

Our Objectives

Himalayan Wildlife Foundation (HWF) aims to restore the Ramkot fort into a historical and cultural landmark that is owned and managed by the local communities in close collaboration with the government.  The project will enhance the recreational and educational opportunities in the area, and will provide direct employment associated with preservation, facilities management, interpretive services, recreation, and transport of visitors.  The project will also help in training researchers and development of restoration expertise that could be useful in similar projects elsewhere in the country.

Conservation Strategy and Plans

HWF has obtained permission from the Department of Archeology to restore the fort.  The Government of AJK, the District Administration, and the local military administration are informed on the activities and plans, and their help and assistance is sought wherever appropriate. The following strategy has been adopted for the restoration and rehabilitation of the fort:

1.   In the first phase, the site is being cleaned to ensure identification of the basic landmarks and layout, flow of drainage water, and removal of accumulated debris to relieve destructive pressure on the structures. Dr. Abdur Rehman, a leading authority on the archeology of the area, is conducting basic research on historic context and supervision of collection and cataloging of objects of interest recovered during the clean-up operation.

2.   A graphic model of the structure and buildings has been developed to ascertain the original profile of the fort, including various stages of construction.  Basic research on historic context, materials of construction, and original construction techniques has been completed.  This critical part of the effort is being managed by Mr. Sohail Khan, a leading architect of the country specializing in restoration of historical buildings, with the experience of Baltit fort in Hunza to his credit.

3.   Based on the available information, a phased restoration plan will be prepared.  Initial focus will be on protecting the most vulnerable sections, and on testing the restoration techniques to be used.  Starting from the entrance area, selected parts of the buildings and structures will be restored.  In case it is technically or financially not possible to replicate the original configurations, alternative configurations that are distinct from the original will be adopted. 

4.   The site will be developed to make it visitor friendly.  Landing area for the boats, trails and pathways for visitors and other support facilities will be constructed.  Additional recreational facilities to enhance the recreational value of the site will be developed.  These may include facilities for boating, sailing, fishing and other water related sports.

5.   Initial findings and restoration plans will be discussed with the communities in nearby villages and in Mirpur town.  An active effort will be made to expand the involvement and participation of the communities in all phases of the work.

6.   A campaign to generate funds for the project will be initiated.  Both the local and expatriate Pakistani communities and other potential donors will be contacted.