THE international community has been working hard to protect historical materials and heritage which serve as a window to our past.

Unfortunately, in Pakistan the government departments concerned hardly take any measure to preserve places of architectural or cultural value such as the forts of Meri, Tump and Pedrak.

We should understand that with the passage of time we will also lose a significant part of our collective memory and material history if we won’t take steps to preserve the above-mentioned forts.

Moreover, the indifference of the government authorities is more painful when one visits one of these forts where one notices that people have started using them as public toilets. Steps must be taken to spread awareness among the people if we truly value our heritage.

The government should contact NGOs or other organisations which have expertise on preserving such sites.

ZAKIA HAIDER Turbat