No scope for revival of 3 protected sites in Patna: ASI official

Patna: AS the World Heritage Day is being observed this year based on the theme — Heritage under Threat from Disasters and Conflicts: Preparedness and Learning from 60 years of ICOMOS Actions, few of the protected sites in Patna have already lost their existence and there is no scope for their revival or restoration, said experts engaged in restoration work of such places. The International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) takes various actions to promote the conservation, protection, and enhancement of cultural heritage.
"There are a total of 71 Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) protected sites across the state, of which 11 are in Patna and were supposed to be revived. But, unfortunately, we have come to the conclusion that three of the 11 sites of the state capital cannot be restored and hence we have sent their names for delisting from the protected sites' list," said Sujeet Nayan, superintending archaeologist (in-charge) excavation Branch-3 at ASI, Patna Circle.
The three sites that cannot be revived include the mounds of ‘Chhoti Pahari' and ‘Panch Pahari'. Both sites have totally been lost and there is no scope for revival because of human habitations over the areas now. "The third site is ancient mounds and ruined brick walls in Maner, which has been encroached by local residents," said Nayan.
However, on a positive note, he said that the ASI was working successfully in case of the supposed site of the Ashokan palace in Kumhrar and also regarding wooden foundations and ancient Mauryan walls in Sandalpur in Patna. "We have also figured out how to protect these sites from increased water table underneath that was the main problem and damaging the remains," said the officer. He further explained that in line with this year's theme, the ASI was working on protecting and reviving several sites of the entire state.
On the other hand, since 1976 Bihar govt has declared 56 protected sites across the state, while the latest one Karinga cemetery of Saran was the latest addition to the list done on April 16 this year.
"Of the total protected sites of Bihar, six are located in Patna," said Kahkashan, OSD (art, culture and youth department), adding, the sites of Patna include Golghar, Agamkuan, Begu Hajjam Mosque, Jain Temple, Chhoti Patan Devi and Do Rukhi Statue in Kankarbagh, all in the state capital. She said the state govt was doing its bit to preserve the said monuments of historical and cultural importance.
Meanwhile, the ASI protected monuments and sites could be visited on World Heritage Day on Friday without any entry fee. "The initiative aims to encourage visitors to explore India's rich cultural heritage," says a press note by ministry of culture on Thursday, adding, 3,698 monuments and sites across the country were under its protection.