Need to restore, integrate heritage sites with tourism sect: Mufti Mohammad Sayeed

SRINAGAR: J&K Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today expressed concern over the threat posed by "abandonment, vandalism and natural disasters" to the heritage sites of the Valley.

"Kashmir as a repository of ancient monuments and archaeological artifacts. The state will do whatever is possible to conserve our heritage monuments and restore these to their original glory so that these are integrated into our tourist circuit as destination sites for heritage lovers," he said.

Addressing a function by the state chapter of Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage ( INTACH), Sayeed expressed concern over the alarming threat posed by wanton abandonment, vandalism and disasters like floods to the "priceless" heritage sites of the Valley.

The Chief Minister called for prioritizing mapping and preservation of Kashmir's heritage, which was "precariously standing on the edge".

"There is a need to preserve these as marks of our great historical past which are needed to be preserved for future," he said.

Describing the old Assembly complex as a huge treasure trove that the state possesses, Sayeed asked INTACH to begin mapping of its restoration so that its conservation and preservation is taken up on priority.

"The old Assembly had a Durbar Hall akin to the House of Commons in Britain and it had one of the finest galleries of exquisite art works in the state," he said while stressing on the need for revival of the complex.