KARACHI: A Unesco delegation called on Sindh Minister of Culture, Tourism, Antiquities and Archives Syed Zulfiqar Ali Shah to discuss the restoration project of the world heritage Makli’s tombs of Shaikh Jiyo and others which were severely affected in rains, floods and other natural disasters.

Comprising Archaeolo-gists Rand Eppich, Christina and Tania Soomro, the team briefed that Unesco had sent its two missions in 2022 and 2023 for the estimation of the damage caused in Makli. After inspection it informed about the need of urgent restoration, preservation and protection of Sheikh Jiyo’s and others’ tombs.

The delegation said the Sindh’s cultural sites were full of history and civilisation. “We should promote the project before starting it to attract tourists,” they said.

Minister Zulfiqar thanked Unesco for the proposed restoration of the tombs of Sindh’s historical heritage at Makli and assured full cooperation on behalf of the Sindh government.

Shah said that during the project, facilities of site visits would also be provided to bring tourists closer to the history. “I want to establish contact with other provinces too to highlight the culture and tourism of Pakistan,” he said.

In the meeting, joint efforts were also agreed to declare Ranikot Fort as a World Heritage Site under Unesco.

The delegation also invited the minister to visit the Unesco Islamabad office.

Later, the minister presented replicas of traditional Ajrak, Topi and Mohanjo Daro artefacts to the delegation.

Published in Dawn, May 30th, 2024