Archaeology: Govt not interested in preservation of cultural heritage

Archaeological sites near capital in tatters

ISLAMABAD: Pharwala Fort, Sarai Kharbooza, and Rawat Fort, which are located in areas surrounding the capital city, are all in derelict condition, with urgent repair work necessary for their preservation.

The concerned authorities need to act swiftly to ensure the preservation of the archaeological sites.

Pharwala Fort, which is on the left bank of the Soan River on the Keral Hills, was constructed in the 11th century by Sultan Kaigohar Gakhar. It had seven gates, but now only three exist — Soan, Lashkari and Hathi — are still there.

Keeping in view its significance, the fort was declared a protected monument under the Antiquities Act of 1975 by the Ministry of Culture, after devolution of power under the 18th constitutional amendment.Notwithstanding, no step had been taken by the concerned authorities for the fort’s preservation.



The fort is in a dilapidated state, while some parts of its interior are occupied by houses of the villagers and the rest of the area is used for agricultural purposes.

Melon Inn’s outer wall had recently been damaged by private construction, after which the authorities took action to stop the activity.

Rawat Fort, which is located near the garrison city of Rawalpindi, is also slowly eroding due to non-preservation.



Rawat Fort was built by the Ghakkar tribe and dates back to the 16th century.

An official of the Department of Archaeology and Museums said that they had contacted the concerned ministry and had sent proposals for the preservation of decaying sites; however, the authorities were yet to give the green signal for the implementation of this planned measures.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 24^th, 2016.