ISLAMABAD, Sep 08 (APP):Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture, Aurangzeb Khan Khichi Tuesday said that the historic Shah Allah Ditta Caves would be inaugurated and opened for visitors in the first half of October as part of efforts to promote the region’s rich Gandhara heritage and cultural tourism. He made these remarks during a visit to the historic Pharwala Fort, Mai Qamro Mosque and the Tomb of Sultan Muqarrab …
Shah Allah Ditta Caves to be opened for visitors in first half of October: Minister
ISLAMABAD, Sep 08 (APP):Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture, Aurangzeb Khan Khichi Tuesday said that the historic Shah Allah Ditta Caves would be inaugurated and opened for visitors in the first half of October as part of efforts to promote the region’s rich Gandhara heritage and cultural tourism.
He made these remarks during a visit to the historic Pharwala Fort, Mai Qamro Mosque and the Tomb of Sultan Muqarrab Khan along with UNESCO Representative in Pakistan Fuad Pashayev.
Secretary National Heritage and Culture Asad Rehman Gilani also accompanied the delegation.
The Federal Minister invited Fuad Pashayev to join the opening ceremony of the Shah Allah Ditta Caves, saying that conservation and development of historic sites would not only help preserve Pakistan’s invaluable cultural heritage but also promote domestic and international tourism.
During the visit, officials of the Department of Archeology and Museums (DoAM) briefed the UNESCO Representative about the historical, archaeological and cultural significance of the sites, as well as the conservation and preservation work carried out by the department.
Fuad Pashayev appreciated Pakistan’s efforts for the preservation and promotion of its rich cultural heritage and the historic legacy of the Gakhar tribe.
He also planted a tree at the site, symbolizing the importance of environmental conservation and preservation of cultural heritage for future generations.
The UNESCO Representative was informed that Pharwala Fort, Mai Qamro Mosque and the Tomb of Sultan Muqarrab Khan have been included in Pakistan’s UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List.
He expressed satisfaction over the conservation and preservation efforts undertaken for these important heritage sites in the Islamabad Capital Territory.
He was also briefed about the history of the Gakhar tribe, its historical role in the region and the significance of the monuments.
Aurangzeb Khan Khichi expressed satisfaction over the conservation work being carried out by the Department of Archeology and Museums and said the government was committed to preserving and promoting Pakistan’s rich archaeological and cultural heritage for future generations.
The Pharwala Fort, Mai Qamro Mosque and the Tomb of Sultan Muqarrab Khan have undergone conservation and preservation work in accordance with internationally recognized conservation principles.
Visitor facilities, including seating arrangements, washrooms and landscaping, have also been developed to improve the tourist experience.
Fuad Pashayev appreciated Pakistan’s continued efforts for the protection of its tangible and intangible cultural heritage and stressed the importance of preserving historical sites for future generations.
The visit highlighted continued cooperation between the National Heritage and Culture Division, the Department of Archeology and Museums and UNESCO for the preservation, promotion and international recognition of Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage.
