Protected heritage?

On Monday (Apr 10), Karachi awakened to the sad news of the demolition of the 86-year old building of Jufelhurst School in Soldier Bazaar. The incident took place under the vigilant eyes of the authorities who were supposed to protect it. It must be mentioned that the school’s building was one of the very few sites that represents the old city of Karachi. While some historical sites get attention vis-à-vis their protection, many such sites escape the notice of the concerned authorities. Almost two years ago, the land mafia occupied a national heritage site – Sir Henry Holland Eye Hospital Shikarpur (Sindh). The hospital was built by a philanthropist and was famous for its intricate architect. Around the same time, the Malir district in Karachi became the victim of the land mafia. The historical sites of the area were demolished. Unfortunately no action was taken against those involved despite much hue and cry and the consequent campaign launched by the civil society calling for the protection of ancient sites.

Mohenjodaro, which dates back to 3000 BC tracing its history from the Indus Valley Civilization, shows hardly any sign of a historical place. Its excavated look appears more like a derelict site than a historical one, because instead of being conserved and restored in its originality, it is flagrantly being ignored. A number of the monuments of considerable historical antiquity and artifact have been stolen because of the negligence of the Culture Department, Sindh. This sad state of affairs show that the Sindh Cultural Heritage (Preservation) Act – passed by the Provincial Assembly in 1994 – needs to be amended. It is important to have proper laws in place to help protect the country’s heritage.

Maheen Miandad

Karachi