In a curious case of administrative delay, a major heritage fort near Bhopal continues to issue entry tickets bearing its old name, nearly three years after it was officially renamed. The site, now known as Jagdishpur Fort, was renamed from Islamnagar in 2023, but the outdated ticketing machines have not been updated, causing confusion among visitors.
Stuck in the Past: The Ticketing Anomaly
Officials from the Madhya Pradesh Directorate of Archaeology, Archives and Museums have confirmed that the automated vending machines at the fort site are still programmed with the former name, Islamnagar. These machines, installed several years ago, have not received the necessary software update to reflect the historic name change. This oversight has turned the simple act of purchasing a ticket into a reminder of the site's past identity, highlighting a significant gap between official decisions and on-ground implementation.
Restoration Complete, But Identity Crisis Lingers
The fort itself is a significant heritage site, celebrated for its unique blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture. It has recently seen positive developments, having successfully completed Phase I of a comprehensive restoration project. This phase focused on crucial structural conservation and upgrading visitor amenities, which has undoubtedly enhanced the fort's appeal and safety.
However, the persisting ticketing issue undermines these modernization efforts. Neelesh Lokande, the State Archaeology officer in charge of the site (still referred to in his title as Islamnagar), acknowledged the problem. He stated that the department is aware of the discrepancy and revealed plans for a major overhaul.
Digital Future on the Horizon
"We are aware that tickets still mention Islamnagar," Lokande said. He outlined the solution: "Soon, paperless ticketing will be introduced, and the old machines will be phased out. Cashless payment and online booking facilities are also in the pipeline."
This shift towards a digital ticketing system is expected to bring Jagdishpur Fort in line with modern practices adopted at other heritage sites across India. Experts argue that such an update, along with consistent use of the new name across all platforms, is essential to solidify the fort's rebranded identity and improve the overall visitor experience.
For now, tourists find themselves at a crossroads between history and modernity. They hold physical tickets that recall the fort's past as Islamnagar, even as the restored structures and promised digital reforms point toward its future as Jagdishpur. The situation serves as a stark example of how technological inertia can slow down administrative changes, even for prominent historical landmarks.
