ISLAMABAD: A Senate committee on Monday reviewed UNESCO’s observations regarding conservation work at the World Heritage archaeological sites of Mohra Moradu and Sirkap in Taxila, with officials assuring lawmakers that restoration efforts have been carried out in accordance with international conservation standards.

The Senate Standing Committee on National Heritage and Culture, chaired by Senator Hidayatullah Khan, met at Parliament House to examine heritage conservation issues, focusing on UNESCO’s correspondence regarding restoration work at the Taxila archaeological complex.

The meeting was attended by Senators Abdul Wasay, Bushra Anjum, Sarmad Ali, and Syed Waqar Mehdi, along with the secretary of the Ministry of National Heritage and Culture and senior ministry officials.

Officials informed the committee that following Pakistan’s 18th Constitutional Amendment, responsibility for heritage conservation shifted to provincial governments. The Punjab government subsequently carried out restoration work at Mohra Moradu and Sirkap.

They explained that UNESCO had requested additional information about the conservation methodology, which was provided by the Punjab government. Since the submission of the required documentation, UNESCO has not raised any further objections.

According to officials, the conservation programme for the Taxila World Heritage Site was prepared in line with recommendations from UNESCO, the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS), and the Urban Unit.

The restoration strategy follows internationally recognised conservation principles, including reversible interventions, clear distinction between original and restored structures, compatible construction materials, consolidation of historic masonry, scientific repair of deteriorated joints, traditional wall capping, and improved drainage systems to protect archaeological remains.

During the meeting, Senator Syed Waqar Mehdi sought details of UNESCO’s concerns. Officials said the organisation had primarily questioned the materials used, rebuilding techniques for certain walls, and the height of reconstructed sections.

They added that these issues were comprehensively addressed through detailed technical documentation submitted to UNESCO, while scientific micro-cleaning and structural consolidation were carried out in line with global conservation standards.

The committee was also informed that Pakistan currently has six UNESCO World Heritage Sites, while nomination dossiers for 24 additional sites have been prepared and submitted for future inscription. Officials noted that UNESCO generally considers only one nomination from each country annually, and Pakistan has requested priority consideration for its pending nominations.

Lawmakers reviewed proposals to further develop Taxila as a heritage tourism destination. Officials said approximately Rs100 million has been allocated for conservation work during the current fiscal year, while plans for an open-air museum, improved visitor facilities, and additional tourism infrastructure are under consideration.

They also noted that coordination mechanisms exist with provincial governments where archaeological sites extend across provincial boundaries.

Senator Bushra Anjum called for stronger federal oversight of heritage conservation despite its devolution under the 18th Amendment. She also stressed the importance of improving tourism infrastructure, including accommodation, visitor services, and sustainable revenue models that support both tourism and cultural preservation.

The committee directed the Ministry of National Heritage and Culture to share UNESCO’s formal response with members once it is received and recommended a visit to the Taxila archaeological sites to assess the conservation work firsthand.

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