In order to get first-hand information about the conservation and maintenance work being carried out by the Jammu and Kashmir State Archives, Archaeology and Museums Department. Mr. Kuldeep Krishan Sidha, Director, Archives, Archaeology and Museums Department, Jammu and Kashmir, inspected the works in Tangmarg and Gulmarg areas of Baramulla district on September 14, 2024.
The Director inspected the following works: conservation and restoration of ancient temples and watchtowers in Ferozepur, Delang and Tangmarg, restoration of ancient mosques in Hajibal and Tangmarg and reconstruction and restoration of St. Mary’s Church in Gulmarg.
Sidhar expressed concern that the R&B department had prepared the DPR/work estimate without any needs assessment and without technical guidance from any specialized agency engaged in conservation and restoration of monuments, historical buildings and sites.
While taking count of the components of works being executed and actual construction, the Director AA&M, J&K raised severe questions about the unrealistic and false estimates of works being executed and the exorbitant costs.
Directions were issued to the R&B department and engineers of AD, AA&M, Kashmir on the spot to avoid such irregularities and ensure transparent monitoring of the work being performed by the department.
Local residents of Hajibar appreciated the efforts and measures taken by the directors of archives, archaeology and museums, while also stressing the need to restore the heritage buildings to their original glory.
The J&K AA&M Director cautioned the field officials as well as the implementing agencies to be careful in their approach and conduct as there can be no compromise in maintaining financial discipline and departmental targets.
The Director further said that he would personally visit all the districts to not only inspect the work sites but also the level of protection and maintenance of the monuments in various districts.
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