The Functional Committee on Devolution, National Heritage, and Culture has announced the nomination of five significant historical and cultural sites in Pakistan for inclusion in the UNESCO World Archaeological Heritage List.
According to officials from the National Heritage and Culture Division, the nominated sites include Bhambhore Port, the Qarez System of Balochistan, the Nagarparkar Cultural Landscape, the Rani Ghat site, and Hiran Minar. The nominations aim to gain international recognition for Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage and promote its global tourism profile.
During a briefing on the preservation of Rawat Fort, committee members were informed that restoration work at the site began in 2017. Officials also noted the presence of an actively used mosque behind the fort. Efforts to impose an entry fee at the site were met with objections from local residents, particularly worshippers, and even led to a protest when ticketing was enforced.
Acknowledging the community’s concerns, the Secretary for National Heritage and Culture assured the committee that the government is striving to strike a balance between heritage conservation and respect for religious practices.
The committee welcomed the nominations and expressed hope that the recognition of these sites by UNESCO would strengthen Pakistan’s cultural identity and enhance its appeal as a global tourist destination.