Preserving heritage

RECENT restoration work at the World Heritage Sites of Mohra Moradu and Sirkap in Taxila has triggered serious alarm about the stewardship of Pakistan’s archaeological legacy. These sites, layered with centuries of history, now risk being flagged by Unesco as endangered — not because of natural decay but due to ill-judged human intervention. The reported use of cement in repairs, in violation of conservation standards, points to a deeper malaise: a troubling lack of expertise, oversight and commitment within the institutions concerned. Equally alarming is the lack of response by the Punjab Archaeology Department. An urgent communication from the Department of Archaeology and Museums, Islamabad, reportedly went unanswered for weeks. Such indifference is more than bureaucratic inertia; it signals a dangerous disregard for national heritage. Silence, in this context, speaks volumes for the department’s approach towards something so significant. This attitude exposes a broader pattern of neglect. Conservation is not merely about preserving bricks and stones; it demands transparency, collaboration and respect for scholarly input. Yet meaningful engagement with conservation experts and historians remains conspicuously absent. It not only endangers invaluable sites but also weakens Pakistan’s standing as it seeks greater recognition on the global heritage stage. Without investment in specialised training and adherence to international best practices, such self-guided efforts can cause irreversible harm.

Restoration must be guided by science, not convenience. And criticism should be met with professionalism, not silence. This approach of cosmetic fixes that compromises authenticity for short-term appearances cannot continue. The Punjab government must actively engage with the relevant national and international authorities and adopt a posture of openness and accountability in its communication. Being obstinate and insular is precisely the opposite of what is required to safeguard a rich and shared heritage. Perhaps the government should consider a collaborative approach through sustained engagement, which would prove fruitful.

Published in Dawn, March 30th, 2026

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