AS militancy in Pakistan’s tribal areas is reined in, a cornucopia of archaeological treasures scattered in the region is coming to light. A report in this paper yesterday detailed the first-ever survey in Khyber Agency — carried out by a team of archaeologists from KP — that has discovered around 110 archaeological sites in Jamrud tehsil. The two-month pilot project resulted in the unearthing of remains and structures, as well as rock carvings and paintings, some of which date back to the Buddhist period and others even earlier to prehistoric times. The credit for the initiative goes to the Khyber Agency’s political agent, Khalid Mehmood, who engaged Dr Abdul Samad, the head of KP’s Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, to conduct the survey.

Given that the area used to be a gateway to Central Asia and a cultural crossroads for many centuries, it stood to reason that evidence of this ancient past was in existence. However, historical exigencies and, more recently, the militancy that has ravaged parts of northern Pakistan, had rendered it almost inconceivable that finds of this magnitude would actually come to light. And more such discoveries are certain to be made when the survey is extended, as planned, to other parts of the agency, including Landi Kotal, Bara and Tirah valley. In fact, the potential for developing Khyber Agency — and in time, the other tribal agencies — as a tourist destination significant for its archaeological heritage is truly exciting. But there are many practical considerations, aside from a sustainable peace, that must be factored in before that objective can be achieved. For one, the sites must be studied, catalogued and preserved in a scientific manner, and opened up for international research as well. To do so, as suggested by Dr Samad, Fata should have its own directorate of archaeology. This will go some way to ensure that the tribal agencies’ multicultural heritage, rather than falling prey to antique smugglers, remains intact to be savoured by generations to come.

Published in Dawn December 10th, 2016