ISLAMABAD, Aug 04 (APP):Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture, Aurangzeb Khan Khichi on Tuesday said the historic Shah Allah Ditta Caves in federal capital, an important centre of the Gandhara Civilization and Buddhist heritage, would be developed into a world-class Buddhist heritage site with modern facilities. During a visit to the caves, the minister directed the authorities concerned to complete the ongoing conservation and development work at the earliest …
Shah Allah Ditta Caves to be developed into world-class Buddhist heritage site
ISLAMABAD, Aug 04 (APP):Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture, Aurangzeb Khan Khichi on Tuesday said the historic Shah Allah Ditta Caves in federal capital, an important centre of the Gandhara Civilization and Buddhist heritage, would be developed into a world-class Buddhist heritage site with modern facilities.
During a visit to the caves, the minister directed the authorities concerned to complete the ongoing conservation and development work at the earliest so the site could be formally inaugurated during the Gandhara Conference scheduled for September or October. Parliamentary Secretary Farah Naz Akbar accompanied him during the visit.
The officials of the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums (DOAM) briefed the minister on the conservation work and informed him that a historic Buddhist-era stupa was located on a hillside opposite the caves but is not clearly visible from the site due to the distance.
The minister directed the installation of a modern telescope to enable Buddhist monks and other visitors to have a closer view of the ancient stupa.
He also instructed the authorities to prominently display information on the history and heritage of Buddhism at the caves to highlight the site’s historical and religious significance.
Aurangzeb Khan Khichi said Prime Minister of Pakistan was taking keen interest in the preservation, promotion and international recognition of the Gandhara Civilization, adding that the Shah Allah Ditta Caves are being upgraded in line with international standards.
He said facilities including a cafeteria, gift shop and other visitor amenities would be established for local and foreign tourists, while decorative lighting would also be installed to enhance the site’s appeal during the evening.
Later, the minister chaired a high-level meeting at the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, attended by Secretary National Heritage and Culture Asad Rehman Gilani, the Joint Secretary and other senior officials.
The meeting reviewed development and conservation projects related to the Shah Allah Ditta Caves and other historical sites.
During the meeting, a proposal was presented to prepare a special historical map depicting the evolution of Islamabad.
The minister also directed the establishment of a dedicated “Gakhar Corner” in the Directorate’s gallery to showcase artefacts and information related to the historic Gakhar Fort near Kahuta and the Gakhar tribe.
He further instructed officials to display artefacts from the ancient Mehrgarh Civilization to better highlight Pakistan’s rich archaeological heritage.
He said members of the National Assembly from Balochistan had sought the ministry’s support for preserving the century-old ancestral house of renowned poet and writer Syed Zahoor Shah Hashmi in Gwadar, as well as other historical sites in Turbat.
He said the parliamentarians had been asked to submit formal written recommendations so the projects could be taken up after completion of the required legal process.
Speaking on the occasion, Secretary National Heritage and Culture Asad Rehman Gilani said the gallery of the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums would be reorganized and upgraded on modern lines.
He added that efforts would be made to encourage educational visits by university students and enhance public participation to promote awareness of Pakistan’s historical and cultural heritage.
