Srinagar, March 6: Kashmir’s civil society, including Environmental Policy Group (EPG), has appreciated the decisive actions announced by Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Padurang Pole, for the preservation and conservation of Burzahama archeological site in Srinagar.
Earlier today, the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir after chairing a high level meeting issued orders for quick and strict compliance on the preservation of the site., taking cognizance of the concerns raised by the various civil society groups, including the EPG and Ziraat Times.
“This is a remarkable development. We welcome the steps announced today”, Faiz Bakshi, Convenor, Environmental Policy Group(EPG), told Ziraat Times.
Kashmir’s civil society, including Ziraat Times, has been expressing deep concern about the encroachments and conduct of various events at the 5000-year-old Burzahama site, which have resulted in degradation and loss of several priceless archeological artifacts at the site.
The Divisional Commissioner has issued the following orders today:
1) Provide police protection to ASI & PWD during construction of wall around Burzahamma Archeological site.
2) Offer police protection while restoring 7 Kanals of land to ASI site.
3) Offered substantial funds out of Srinagar Smart City project for restoration work.
4) Asked Kashmir University Department of Archeology to submit plans within 15 days for development of Archives for secure showcasing the Artifacts.
5) Submit plans for developing Archeological circuit of Burzahamma, old city, Pari Mahal, Shankaracharya, etc.
6) Orderered Chief Engineer to immediately restart the stalled works at Burzahama and engage new contractor in case previous one is no more willing to execute the work.
