ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Aurangzeb Khan Khichi said Tuesday that the historic Shah Allah Ditta Caves in Islamabad, an important centre of Gandhara civilisation and Buddhist heritage, were being developed into a world-class Buddhist heritage site equipped with modern facilities.

A statement issued here said that he directed the concerned authorities to complete the ongoing development work at the earliest to be formally inaugurated during the Gandhara Conference scheduled for September/October.

Parliamentary Secretary Farah Naz Akbar also accompanied him.

The minister visited the Shah Allah Ditta Caves and reviewed the ongoing conservation and development work. During the visit, officials of the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums (DOAM) briefed him that a historic Buddhist-era stupa was situated on the hillside opposite the caves. However, due to the distance, it was not clearly visible from the site.

The minister directed the installation of a modern telescope to enable Buddhist monks and other visitors to have a closer view of the historic stupa. He further instructed that the caves should prominently showcase the history and heritage of Buddhism so that the site’s historical and religious significance is effectively highlighted.

Aurangzeb Khan Khichi said that the government was taking keen interest in the preservation, promotion and international recognition of the Gandhara Civilisation. In line with this vision, the Shah Allah Ditta Caves were being upgraded in accordance with international standards. He added that facilities including a cafeteria, gift shop and other visitor amenities would be established for local and foreign visitors. The caves will also be illuminated with decorative lighting during the evening to further enhance their attraction.

Later, the Federal Minister chaired a high-level meeting at the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, attended by Secretary National Heritage and Culture Asad Rehman Gilani, the joint secretary and other senior officials. The meeting received a detailed briefing on the development and conservation projects relating to the Shah Allah Ditta Caves and other historical sites.

During the meeting, a proposal was presented to prepare a special historical map illustrating the evolution of Islamabad. On the occasion, the federal minister directed the establishment of a dedicated “Gakhar Corner” in the Directorate’s gallery to showcase historical artefacts and information related to the historic Gakhar Fort near Kahuta and the Gakhar tribe. He also instructed that artefacts from the ancient Mehrgarh Civilisation be displayed in the gallery to effectively highlight Pakistan’s rich archaeological heritage.

The federal minister said that some members of the National Assembly from Balochistan had requested the Ministry’s support for the preservation of the century-old ancestral house of renowned poet and writer Syed Zahoor Shah Hashmi in Gwadar, as well as other historical sites in Turbat.

He said the concerned parliamentarians had been asked to submit formal written recommendations so that the projects could be undertaken after fulfilling the necessary legal requirements.

On the occasion, Secretary National Heritage and Culture Asad Rehman Gilani said that the gallery of the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums would be reorganised and upgraded on modern lines. He added that efforts would be made to encourage educational visits by university students as well as greater public participation to enhance awareness of Pakistan’s historical and cultural heritage.

Published in Dawn, August 5th, 2026