Preserve heritage sites

The Srinagar is surrounded by the heritage sites while many are also around the Shehr-e-Khaas as well. But, the preservation of these sites is imperative and the government itself is duty bound and responsible to ensure that the sites, buildings are protected for the next generations. However, a survey conducted by the INTACH, J&K Chapter has come up with worrisome figures, which state that many of the heritage sites have been completely dismantled. There are nearly 33 per cent of the sites which are showing signs of deterioration while as per the survey, three per cent are in danger of disappearance while three per cent are in an advanced state of decay. The survey has made startling revelation, claiming that 12 per cent of the heritage sites as per 2003 listing have been dismantled completely. The figures have shown that only 49 per cent of the heritage sites as per 2003 listing are in good or fair condition, which creates apprehensions of further loss of the heritage sites. The reasons behind not preserving the heritage sites is the non-serious approach of the administration in preserving the sites. It is the time when the government should take steps to preserve the heritage sites. Therefore, the lack of ground work has to be put to an immediate end so that the heritage sites are protected and preserved on time.