Proposal to Establish New Museum for 513 Precious Antiquities Returned from the United States; Committee Urges Continuation of Conservation Work in Taxila According to UNESCO Standards
Islamabad (Izhar Khan Niazi): The meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on National Heritage and Culture, chaired by Senator Hidayatullah Khan, was held at Parliament House, where members conducted a detailed review of matters related to the historic archaeological sites of Taxila, UNESCO’s concerns regarding the preservation of Mohra Moradu and Sirkap, the Pakistani antiquities returned from the United States, and the protection of cultural heritage.
During a briefing, the Secretary of National Heritage and Culture informed the committee that, after the 18th Constitutional Amendment, the preservation of archaeological sites became a provincial responsibility. He stated that the Punjab Government is carrying out restoration work at Mohra Moradu and Sirkap.
The committee was informed that UNESCO had sought certain details regarding the conservation work, which were provided by the Punjab Government. Following the submission of the required information, no further objections were raised, and the restoration activities are continuing in accordance with UNESCO’s prescribed guidelines.
Officials further informed the committee that the conservation program for the Taxila World Heritage Site has been prepared in accordance with recommendations from UNESCO, ICOMOS, and the Urban Unit. The program includes scientific conservation methods, the use of traditional construction materials, improved drainage systems, and measures to ensure the long-term preservation of ancient structures according to international standards.
The committee was informed that Pakistan currently has six sites listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, while documentation for the nomination of an additional 24 sites has already been submitted. Officials stated that UNESCO considers only one nomination from each country annually; however, Pakistan has requested priority consideration for its pending nominations.
Senator Syed Waqar Mehdi sought details regarding UNESCO’s concerns. Officials explained that the objections related to the construction materials used in restoration, methods for rebuilding walls, and the height of certain structures. They added that detailed responses and scientific documentation had been submitted to UNESCO.
The committee also reviewed plans to develop Taxila as a heritage city. Officials informed members that approximately Rs. 100 million has already been spent on conservation projects during the current year, while plans for an open-air museum, tourist facilities, and other development initiatives are also under consideration.
Senator Bushra Anjum emphasized the need for effective federal-level oversight in archaeological preservation, improved tourism infrastructure, accommodation facilities, visitor services, and sustainable business models. She stressed that all conservation work must strictly follow UNESCO standards.
The committee directed the ministry to share UNESCO’s official response with the committee once received. Members also decided to visit the archaeological sites of Taxila.
Later, the committee received a briefing on the return of Pakistani antiquities that had been smuggled to the United States. Officials informed the committee that, with the cooperation of the United States, 513 valuable antiquities belonging to the Gandhara civilization had been brought back to Pakistan. These artifacts had been illegally smuggled over several decades and are now in government custody.
The committee was informed that plans are underway to establish a new museum in Islamabad for the exhibition and preservation of these antiquities. Work is being carried out to acquire land with the cooperation of the Capital Development Authority (CDA), while possibilities for a public-private partnership are also being explored.
The meeting also expressed concern over the alleged demolition of a historic Mughal-era arch near Rohra village for a housing project. The committee chairman directed the ministry to present a complete report on the matter in the next meeting.
Concluding the session, Senator Hidayatullah Khan reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to taking effective measures for the protection of Pakistan’s cultural and archaeological heritage, strengthening institutional coordination, improving tourism planning, and preventing the illegal trafficking of antiquities.