5/12/2017
PUNE: The State
Department of Archaeology and Museums is compiling a database about forts and
the restoration works undertaken by volunteer groups at historical monuments
which do not harmonise with the original structures.
"Volunteer groups and monument enthusiasts have been carrying out
restoration works at several forts. The problem is that most of them are
neither educated nor equipped to perform such restoration. Their intention is
good, but building a cement wall where lime was used cannot be considered as
restoration," Tejas Garge, Director of State Department of Archaeology and
Museums, said.
Compiling of data started around 15 days ago and it may take
over a year to document all the forts and the work done by the volunteer
groups. "Action can be taken against such groups if the work is at
protected monuments. However, we will consult them and have a dialogue as the
repairs are done with good intentions," he said.
Pandurang Balkawde, member of state-appointed Fort Conservation
Committee, said there are more than 500 forts in the state of which only 82 are
protected. "The State Archaeology Department is short-staffed and has
financial constraints. Moreover, they do not undertake restoration work in
forts that are not protected. But people have an attachment for these forts and
cannot see them in ruins. Hence, they take restoration into their hands,"
he added.
Balkawde suggested that the department should train them in
restoration work which will add to their manpower and help them maintain more
forts. "We have provided a list of 100 forts that should be declared as
'state-protected monuments' a year ago. The government has started work,"
he added.
0 comments:
Post a Comment