Conference Heritage Protection

Conference on Sustainable Heritage Protection Safeguarding Karachi's Cultural Legacy

By: Aziz Khatri

Karachi: In a significant effort to address the pressing concerns of heritage conservation, the Department of Archaeology, in collaboration with the Directorate General of Archaeology, Culture, Tourism, Antiquities, and Archives of the Government of Sindh, held a conference centered on sustainable heritage protection in Karachi.

The event, aimed at raising awareness and developing strategies for the preservation of Sindh’s cultural heritage, saw the presentation of Shields of Honor to members of the Technical Committee. This recognition was bestowed upon them for their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the historical and architectural treasures of the region.

During her keynote address, Dr. Anila Naeem highlighted the alarming number of historical buildings that have already collapsed, while many others remain unprotected. She called for the implementation of stringent laws to address the critical need for heritage preservation.

Echoing these sentiments, Naeem Ahmed Khan proposed the establishment of zoning regulations specifically for heritage properties. He urged that property owners should be provided comprehensive guidance on maintaining these architectural gems. Additionally, Khan suggested extending the penalty period for any violation and offering incentives to those property owners who actively engage in preservation efforts.

Architect Zulfiqar Noor stressed the necessity for organized archaeological impact assessments to safeguard vital archaeological sites. He advocated for the enforcement of strict regulations, empowering the Department of Archaeology to take decisive action against violations.

Emphasizing adherence to existing rules, Muhammad Ali Manji proposed the initiation of ethics and awareness programs for property owners. These initiatives aim to educate individuals on the proper maintenance and management of their inherited properties.

Architect Marvi Mazhar highlighted that various locations across Sindh deserve immediate attention and protection. Dr. Kaleaullah Lashar urged for robust public awareness campaigns to inform communities about the importance of preserving heritage properties, insisting that strict measures must be taken against those who violate preservation laws.

The conference concluded with a strong message regarding the collective responsibility of all stakeholders in protecting and preserving the rich cultural heritage of Karachi and Sindh. Participants emphasized that a united effort is crucial to ensuring that future generations can appreciate and learn from their historical legacy.