WB delegation tours Taxila heritage sites

Reviews conservation work at renowned Buddhist archaeological sites

TAXILA:

A high-level delegation led by World Bank Vice-President Mamta Murthi visited the ancient city of Taxila and its internationally renowned archaeological sites to review the historical legacy of the Gandhara civilisation, its cultural significance and ongoing preservation efforts.

The delegation began its visit at the Taxila Museum, where it was received by Deputy Director SRO Taxila, Muhammad Asim Dogar, and senior archaeologist Dr Arsalan.

Officials provided a detailed briefing on the museum's extensive collection of Gandharan artefacts, Buddhist architecture, sculpture and other archaeological treasures.

The delegation was informed that the museum is one of South Asia's most significant repositories of Gandharan heritage, housing thousands of years-old sculptures, coins, jewellery, pottery and other rare artefacts.

Members of the delegation toured the museum's galleries and expressed particular interest in its unique examples of Gandharan art.

The delegation later visited the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Sirkap and Dharmarajika Stupa. Archaeologists briefed visitors on their historical importance, noting that Sirkap was one of ancient Taxila's principal urban centres, while Dharmarajika Stupa is regarded as one of Buddhism's most sacred religious sites.

The delegation also toured the ancient Buddhist monastery of Jaulian in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a prominent monument from the height of the Gandhara civilisation.

The visitors were received by Director General Archaeology Khyber- Pakhtunkhwa, Dr Abdul Samad, who provided a comprehensive briefing on the monastery's historical significance, archaeological research, conservation and restoration projects, and tourism potential.

Dr Abdul Samad told the delegation that Jaulian had served as a major centre of Buddhist learning and religious activity, with discoveries at the site offering valuable evidence of the intellectual and cultural achievements of the Gandhara civilisation.

He said the provincial government and the archaeology department were pursuing various initiatives aimed at preserving and promoting the region's historical heritage at the international level.

During the visit, the World Bank delegation commended ongoing efforts to conserve, restore and promote the archaeological sites. Members of the delegation emphasised that Pakistan's cultural heritage holds not only national but also global significance and stressed the need to strengthen international cooperation for its preservation.

Experts noted that Taxila and its surrounding archaeological sites reflect a unique blend of Buddhist, Greek, Persian and indigenous civilisations, making the region one of the world's most important historical centres.

Officials described the World Bank delegation's visit as a significant step towards showcasing Pakistan's cultural heritage on the global stage and attracting greater international attention to its preservation.