Field Archaeology 2015: ‘Modern techniques vital for preserving history’

Archaeologists discuss discovery of new artefacts, weigh up importance of preservation at conference

PESHAWAR:

Archaeologists and scholars have termed the use of modern techniques and latest research methods vital for preservation of archaeological sites and rediscovery of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa’s history.

They were speaking at a conference titled Field Archaeology 2015 organised by K-P Directorate of Archaeology in collaboration with Museums Association of Pakistan (MAP) and Association for the Archaeological Study of Ancient Societies at Peshawar Museum Hall on Wednesday.

With MAP Secretary General Mian Atiqur Rehman in chair, the moot was organised to provide research scholars a platform to share their insights into the discovery of over 500 new artefacts in Bhamala, Haripur district. Speakers stressed upon the need of state-level patronage for the preservation project and said the interplay between technology and research methods influences our reinvented view of the past.

“We have identified at least 28 new sites of the Hindu Shahi era,” said K-P Director of Archaeology and Museums Dr Abdul Samad, adding excavations will begin soon. Dr Samad said ancient manuscripts have been unearthed from various sites, especially in Buner, Haripur and Swat. “35 stupas of the Buddhist era have been discovered in Buner,” added the director.

Dr Samad assured excavations have been conducted under the supervision of accomplished scholars from various countries, adding there is every possibility that hundreds of archaeological sites exist in areas like Buner.

Also speaking on the occasion, K-P Secretary of Tourism and Archaeology Dr Akbar Durrani said the government is taking meaningful steps towards the preservation of history and that curation of historic sites is of prime importance. “Support will be extended to researchers who take up excavation projects across the province,” he maintained.

During his address, Adviser to Chief Minister on Sports, Tourism, Archaeology, Museums and Youth Affairs Amjad Khan Afridi said conferences like these will motivate researchers and will prove to be a great learning experience to students and officials alike.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 12^th, 2015.