Sindh sets up scientific lab for archives, artifacts preservation

Dr Syed Junaid Ali Shah, Sindh’s caretaker minister for culture, archives, and antiquities, inaugurated a state-of-the-art scientific laboratory aimed at preserving archives and artifacts.

The laboratory named the “Exploration & Excavation Branch Scientific Laboratory and Data Centre” has been established in Karachi to facilitate research on archives and artifacts and ensure their preservation in modern ways. Situated near the historical site of the Romi graveyard, the laboratory is poised to become a hub for preserving cultural heritage.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by dignitaries, including Khalid Chachar, secretary of culture and antiquities, Sindh; Abdul Aleem Lashari, former secretary of culture; Mansoor Ahmed Kanasro, director-general of antiquities; Ijaz Sheikh, director-general of libraries, Sindh; Dr Kaleemullah Lashari; Resident Director Roshan Ali Kanasro, and Deputy Director Atif Hussain Vighio.

Dr. Syed Junaid Ali Shah emphasized that the preservation of archives and artifacts is a national responsibility. This state-of-the-art scientific laboratory marks the first of its kind at the national level in Sindh, aiming to ensure the preservation of treasures beyond those displayed in museums, like those found after the excavation of Mohenjodaro, now housed in the Treasure House Museum. “Our antiquities are a part of our national identity,” he said. “It is our responsibility to preserve them for future generations.”

He further stated that technical constraints have hindered the display of many artifacts for over sixty years. The treatment of artifacts precedes their display, and previously, artifacts were sent abroad for treatment. With the establishment of facilities for artifact treatment in Sindh, local preservation becomes feasible, making artifacts more accessible to the public and researchers.

Dr Shah highlighted plans to increase the number of museums in Sindh, making it mandatory to have a museum at every heritage site, facilitating researchers. He emphasized the importance of understanding the significance of our possessions and maintaining awareness about them.

He further mentioned that carbon dating is utilized to accurately estimate the age of artifacts. Radio carbon dating, based on the presence of carbon atoms in natural substances, provides an estimate of the time elapsed since the material decomposed or dispersed into its elements. It is hoped that we can also avail this facility in Sindh.