Decaying heritage
The ancient Saidpur village in Islamabad has become yet another heritage site of the country that has fallen prey to commercialisation and neglect by authorities. The village was discovered in 1530 AD and is located on the slopes of Margalla hills. It holds immense religious and historical significance as it lived through the early stages of the Mughal Empire to the formation of Pakistan, and still stands in place today. Back in the day, scores of Hindu and Sikh worshippers visited the village because of a temple and gurdwara situated here.
Although the village was declared an ‘Arts and Craft Village’ in 2006 and received significant funds for its upkeep, local visitors, particularly minority worshippers, complain of a stench. Even the ponds have become contaminated with sewage, making breathing impossible. Around the world, countries preserve heritage sites to empower local communities and enable different groups to engage with the history and culture of the country. Unfortunately though, the temple located in the village has been dumped with garbage, deities were removed, and electricity was disconnected. The temple was one of the few places where Pakistan’s Hindu community found some respite. However, the fast-deteriorating conditions of the building and the village will make it impossible to visit. The poor state of Saidpur village and other heritage sites in Pakistan has caused a disconnect among the people with our history and culture. The decaying and unaccommodating sites do not appeal to the visitors.
The Department of Archaeology and Museums must take notice of the state of Saidpur village and formulate a comprehensive strategy to preserve this heritage site. It should work with the local community to ensure good maintenance and management of the village. These strategies must be extended to other heritage sites across the country. Well conserved sites attract tourism and external investment and facilitate existing businesses. Importantly, heritage sites uphold the country’s historic significance and can be utilised for different means, which promotes sustainability and inclusivity.
Published in The Express Tribune, April 13th, 2022.
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