Colonial-era Ferozepur Fort that Hitler envied for its ammo reserves opens to public after 200 years

To boost tourism in the border region of Punjab, the Army’s Golden Arrow Division on Sunday opened to the public the centuries-old Ferozepur Fort, a monument that was occupied for long by the British and was envied by German dictator Adolf Hitler due to its vast ammunition reserves.

It’s the first time in over 200 years that this significant architectural and historical site has been made accessible to the public as part of the Army’s programme to connect the locals with the country’s rich military and cultural heritage.

A critical outpost during the Sikh empire, the fort holds enduring tales of courage and resistance, featuring prominently in narratives of the 1857 war of independence. There were more than 200 buildings in the fort and each was given a number.

Historians say the fort was occupied by the British through deceit after the death of Sardarni Lachhman Kaur in 1835 and was converted into a British garrison in 1839 following instructions from the Duke of Wellington. In 1858, the British opened an arsenal here and different kinds of ammunition were manufactured. The fort served as the base depot for the supply of guns, ammunition, trained horses and bullocks. About 10,000 bullocks, as many horses and 150 camels would be tethered here at any given time.

The fort continued to be used as an arsenal until 1941 when the ammunition was shifted to Kasubegu as a tactical move by the British during World War-II.

Dr Rameshwar Singh, a historian, said the monument had come to the notice of German dictator Adolf Hitler. “The historic fort finds a mention in Hitler’s autobiography ‘Mein Kampf’. He mentioned about the British ammunition marked with name ‘Ferozepore’, due to which he wanted to destroy the fort as well as the city,” he said.

Addressing the inauguration event today, Major General RS Manral, General Officer Commanding (GOC), Golden Arrow Division, said the move reaffirmed the government’s commitment to preserve national heritage and promote responsible border tourism. “Strategically positioned near the India-Pakistan border, the Ferozepur Fort is a remarkable example of the 19th century military architecture from the Sikh empire. Its unique hexagonal design and robust defensive features showcase the strategic ingenuity of its time,” he said.

Brig Bikram Singh, Station Commander, said Ferozepur held a special place in the country’s freedom movement, having produced numerous martyrs and revolutionaries who bravely resisted colonial rule. “This fort and its surroundings have been a witness to pivotal historical events, which continue to symbolise national pride and sacrifice,” he said.