ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Aurangzeb Khan Khichi has said that the historic Shah Allah Ditta Caves in Islamabad are being developed into a world-class Buddhist heritage site equipped with modern facilities.
The minister said the caves were an important centre of Gandhara Civilisation and Buddhist heritage. He directed the authorities concerned to complete the ongoing development work at the earliest so that the site could be formally inaugurated during the Gandhara Conference scheduled for September/October.
Parliamentary Secretary Farah Naz Akbar also accompanied the minister during his visit to the Shah Allah Ditta Caves, where he reviewed the ongoing conservation and development work.
Officials of the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums briefed the minister that a historic Buddhist-era stupa is situated on the hillside opposite the caves. However, they said, it is not clearly visible from the site due to the distance.
Mr Khichi directed the installation of a modern telescope to enable Buddhist monks and other visitors to have a closer view of the historic stupa. He also instructed that the caves should prominently showcase the history and heritage of Buddhism so that the site’s historical and religious significance could be effectively highlighted.
The minister said the Prime Minister of Pakistan was taking keen interest in the preservation, promotion and international recognition of the Gandhara Civilisation. In line with this vision, he said, the Shah Allah Ditta Caves were being upgraded in accordance with international standards.
He said facilities, including a cafeteria, gift shop and other visitor amenities, would be established for local and foreign visitors. The caves would also be illuminated with decorative lighting in the evening to further enhance their attraction.
Later, the federal minister chaired a high-level meeting at the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums. Secretary National Heritage and Culture Asad Rehman Gilani, the joint secretary and other senior officials attended the meeting.
The meeting was given a detailed briefing on development and conservation projects relating to the Shah Allah Ditta Caves and other historical sites.
During the meeting, a proposal was presented to prepare a special historical map illustrating the evolution of Islamabad.
The minister directed the establishment of a dedicated “Gakhar Corner” in the Directorate’s gallery to showcase historical artefacts and information related to the historic Gakhar Fort near Kahuta and the Gakhar tribe.
He also instructed that artefacts from the ancient Mehrgarh Civilisation be displayed in the gallery to highlight Pakistan’s rich archaeological heritage.
Mr Khichi said some Members of the National Assembly from Balochistan had sought the ministry’s support for the preservation of 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 concerned had been asked to submit formal written recommendations so that the projects could be undertaken after fulfilling the necessary legal requirements.
On the occasion, Secretary National Heritage and Culture Asad Rehman Gilani said the gallery of the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums would be reorganised and upgraded on modern lines.
He said efforts would be made to encourage educational visits by university students as well as greater public participation to enhance awareness of Pakistan’s historical and cultural heritage.
