Chinese scholars, archaeologists visit historical sites in K-P

Review relics and Buddhist complex in Takht Bhai and Peshawar museum

An eight-member delegation from China visited archaeological sites in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa on Friday.

The delegation, comprising Chinese scholars, professors and researchers from the Peking University, National Arts University, Singapore Institute, Ranwan University and Research Centre visited the relics and Buddhist complex of Takht Bhai and later the museum in Peshawar.

In-charge Museum Curator Muhammad Asif briefed the visitors on the archaeological sites in Peshawar, Buddhism, a gallery of Buddhist statues, antiques and artefacts.



He said that there were over 6,000 archaeological and heritage sites in Khyber –Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), where research was being carried out to revive these sites properly.

“The followers of Buddhism would find a treasure trove of Buddhist statues and heritage after thorough research and revival of these sites,” the official told the delegation.

Tourist Information Centres (TICs) General Manager Ali Syed hoped the visit would highlight the importance of heritage and archaeological sites related to Buddhism in K-P to the world besides promoting religious tourism in the province.

The official said that they had chalked out a comprehensive policy for preserving and protecting the archaeological sites and places in the province while initiatives were being undertaken to carry out an excavation on archaeological sites through modern techniques and methods.



He also pointed to the latest discoveries and the rich Gandhara heritage in various parts of the province, including Bhamala.

The official said that the government was according to top priority to repair, renovation and preservation of archaeological heritage, and historical buildings in the province. He informed that a plan has been chalked out to protect and preserve all ancient places and building in a proper manner.

He expressed the hope that the visit will provide an opportunity to the visiting members of the delegation to share their experiences and acknowledge among archaeologists and researchers, which could be beneficial for excavations on archaeological sites and historic buildings.

The members of the delegation said that Peshawar was a historic and safe city. They said the people of Peshawar and elsewhere in K-P were hospitable and friendly.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 21^st, 2018.