MANSEHRA: The Hazara University is set to sign a memorandum of understanding with the Water and Power Development Authority (Wapda) for the preservation of the ancient rock carvings and epigraphs, which are feared to be submerged by the waters of the Diamer-Bhasha dam in Kohistan district and neighbouring Chilas district.

Dr Shakirullah, head of the Hazara University’s archaeology department, told reporters here on Thursday that the Wapda had formally sought a proposal from his department for the digital preservation of those ancient treasures found along the Karakoram Highway but feared to be inundated by the dam waters.

Wapda adviser on the cultural heritage Faryal Gohar visited the Hazara University, met Vice-Chancellor Dr Jamil Ahmad and discussed with him ways and means to preserve those ancient rock carvings and epigraphs.

She appreciated the archaeology department over the discovery and preservation of ancient sites and treasures in Hazara division.

“We will preserve these carvings and epigraphs by members of caravans during fifth and sixth century BC as they can’t be left to be vanished,” Dr Shakirullah said.

Plans to sign MoU with Wapda for initiative

He said Wapda’s adviser and the Hazara University agreed to set up a 3D digital lab for the preservation of and research on rock carvings and epigraphs.

“We have been finalising a proposal and budgetary estimates for the entire preservation and research exercise and will submit them to Wapda for approval,” he said.

Meanwhile, deputy inspector general of police Hazara range Mirvaiz Niaz has directed the police officers to enforce the standard operational procedures to stem the spread of coronavirus in the region.

He also ordered the creation of SOP awareness.

The DIG was addressing the monthly crime review meeting, which was attended by district police officer Asif Bahadur and superintendent of police (investigation) Hafiz Janis Khan.

The DIG expressed satisfaction with the law and order situation in the district and said security in sasta bazaars should be enhanced during Ramazan.

He ordered the deployment of plainclothesmen.

DPO Asif Bahadur briefed the DIG about the police performance, arrest of criminals, gangsters and drug dealers in the recent weeks.

Published in Dawn, April 16th, 2021