Karnataka archaeology department is reported to have identified a rocket/missiles launch site that Tipu Sultan had built on the ramparts of his Srirangapatna fort. The place is now a stink of a courtyard, plastered with cow-dung cake and human urine stain, according to a report in The Hindu (Dec.6, 2005). History has it that Tipu had sought and secured missile technology from the French to fight the British.

Heritage commissioner Mr K R Ramakrishna says experts from Britain and France (both of which have historic association with Tipu’s Srirangapatna) have evinced interest in reviving the area’s heritage. So has the German car-makers Mercedes-Benz. A historic temple in Tipu’s town is being salvaged from the ruins with the efforts of Mysore’s Orissa Association. The association president Mr D K Misra is hopeful of raising the Rs.30 lakhs restoration would cost through public donations and corporate philanthropy.

Such concerted heritage initiative in Srirangapatna is good news for Mysore tourism. Local tourist department would, no doubt, factor in these conservation efforts in their promotional campaign. Focus on Srirangapatna restoration work, in its promos, would hopefully attract to Mysore tourists from Britain, France and Germany visiting India.