Pakistan’s rich archaeological heritage, which could have been used to attract tourism, has long faced neglect and indifference from authorities. The recent controversy over the restoration work at Taxila is a glaring example of how little attention is paid to these historical sites. The warning issued by Unesco over the conservation work should be treated as a serious reminder of the responsibility that comes with preserving a world heritage site. In March this year, a third party shared information and photos with Pakistan’s Permanent Delegate to Unesco in Paris, highlighting that original walls at two important sites, Mohra Moradu and Sirkap, may have been changed, rebuilt or repaired using cement. This is against international conservation rules. Now Unesco has warned that the reconstruction work should be reversed and that failure to do so could result in the sites being placed on the agency’s ‘danger list’. The government has consistently defended its position. The Punjab archaeology department maintains that its work constitutes conservation rather than reconstruction and insists that the interventions adhere to internationally accepted standards.
Conservation aims to preserve what survives of the original structure using techniques and materials that interfere as little as possible with its historic fabric. In fact, many historical sites around the world are supported by scaffolding that stabilises the dilapidated structures, allowing visitors to explore old sites without interfering with the original architecture. Reconstruction, by contrast, risks replacing authentic remains. International conservation standards have long emphasised that interventions should be reversible, minimal and clearly documented. If original walls have indeed been replaced or raised using modern masonry and cement, as the photographic evidence reportedly suggests, legitimate questions arise about whether these principles have been observed. The country’s irresponsible attitude is unfortunately not new. In 2014, conservationists asked Unesco to stop part of a cultural event being held on a heritage site – Mohenjo Daro. The group of scholars and archaeologists said that the festival’s opening ceremony could damage the ruins.
Pakistan recently renewed its interest in getting more of its archaeological and cultural sites recognised as Unesco World Heritage Sites. However, these efforts could suffer if doubts remain about how the country protects its existing heritage. Previously, growing extremism in the country posed a significant threat to the country’s historical sites. And now complacency is threatening our national assets. In recent months, there have been impressive statements by the government where it has acknowledged, rather proudly, Pakistan’s rich cultural history. Taxila was once a centre of knowledge and excellence, and should be preserved. The Punjab government has an enviable record of pride in the province it governs and all the cultural assets it holds. The right step should be to have independent experts determine if any inappropriate interventions have occurred and undertake the necessary remedial measures.
