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The presently study seeks to examine the historical importance of coastal forts and fortresses in the immediate hinterland with respect to their geographical locations in the past as well as the present in a stretch of North Konkan lying between Dahanu and the Kundalika estuary. The area became dynamic from the maritime point of view with the advent of colonial traders seeking footholds in search of seaborne trade. The objective of this study is to understand the role of the sea in the maritime heritage and history of the region that brought about significant and marked changes in the socio-political set-up of the area.

Almost all coastal forts were built on some natural site of advantage, commanding the sea or a creek. Site and logistics were important considerations. Having been exposed to the elements of nature and subjected to varying degrees weathering, many are mere remnants of their past glory. There is need to realize the heritage value of the forts and to conserve them or restore them- a line of thinking that is taking shape in the minds of few scholars and conservationists.