Lucknow: India, a land of rich cultural heritage, is home to some of the world’s most iconic historical and archaeological treasures. From the intricately carved temples of Khajuraho and the ancient ruins of Hampi to the revered Somnath temple, the country boasts a vast array of monuments that reflect its rich history, diverse traditions, and architectural brilliance. However, these invaluable landmarks are facing growing threats from climate change and environmental degradation. Rising sea levels, intense heatwaves, forest fires, torrential rains, and strong winds are accelerating the deterioration of these historic sites, posing a serious risk to India’s cultural identity. Immediate intervention is needed to safeguard these treasures for future generations.
The Role of ASI in Monument Protection The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), established in 1861, is the primary organization responsible for the protection and maintenance of 3,698 monuments and archaeological sites across the country. These sites, considered of national importance, fall under the purview of the Ancient Monuments Preservation Act of 1904 and the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act of 1958.
ASI oversees a diverse range of heritage structures, including prehistoric rock shelters, Neolithic sites, megalithic burials, rock-cut caves, stupas, temples, churches, mosques, tombs, forts, and palaces. Conservation programs are planned annually, focusing on minimal intervention to maintain authenticity while tackling structural and environmental challenges. Factors such as material decay, structural instability, pollution, encroachments, and natural disasters are key considerations in these conservation efforts.
With 37 Circle offices and one Mini Circle office across India, ASI coordinates its preservation initiatives from state capitals, ensuring systematic protection and conservation efforts.
Increased Government Funding for Monument Conservation Recognizing the urgent need to protect India’s heritage, the government has significantly increased funding for ASI. Over the past few years, the allocation for monument conservation has risen by 70%. In the fiscal year 2020-21, ASI was allocated ₹260.90 crore, with an expenditure of ₹260.83 crore. By 2023-24, this amount had increased to ₹443.53 crore, reflecting a heightened commitment to heritage preservation.
Measures to Combat Environmental Threats To counter the impact of climate change on historical sites, ASI has adopted several climate-resilient strategies:
- Regular Monitoring: Continuous assessment of cultural heritage sites is conducted to detect and address climate-related damage.
- Climate-Resilient Solutions: Scientific treatments and advanced preservation techniques are used to reinforce structures against environmental damage.
- Automated Weather Stations (AWS): In collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), ASI has installed AWS at key historical sites to monitor wind speed, rainfall, temperature, and atmospheric pressure. This helps in early detection of potential damage.
- Air Pollution Monitoring: Laboratories have been set up at critical sites like the Taj Mahal in Agra and Bibi Ka Maqbara in Aurangabad to analyze air quality and prevent pollution-related damage.
- Collaboration with Other Agencies: ASI regularly coordinates with government bodies to implement policies and strategies aimed at preserving cultural heritage amid climate challenges.
- International Collaboration: ASI officials have participated in global workshops on disaster management for cultural heritage sites, organized by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and UNESCO.
- Disaster Management Guidelines: ASI, in partnership with NDMA, has formulated “National Disaster Management Guidelines” for cultural heritage sites, focusing on risk assessment, disaster preparedness, and recovery plans.
Legal and Security Measures Beyond climate threats, urbanization and commercialization also pose risks to historical monuments. To counter these challenges, the government has implemented several legal and security measures:
- Legal Protection: The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958, provides stringent rules to protect cultural heritage from encroachments and misuse.
- Encroachment Control: Superintending Archaeologists are empowered to issue eviction notices under the Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Act, 1971, to prevent illegal occupation.
- Security Coordination: ASI collaborates with state governments and police authorities to safeguard monuments from vandalism and encroachment.
- Deployment of Security Personnel: In addition to ASI’s in-house security teams, private security personnel and the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) are deployed at select sites to ensure safety.
- Strict Penalties for Misuse: Section 30 of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958, imposes strict penalties for damage or misuse of protected monuments.
The conservation of India’s cultural heritage is an ongoing and multifaceted challenge, requiring proactive intervention to mitigate environmental, legal, and security threats. ASI, in collaboration with national and international agencies, continues to implement strategic measures to protect these monumental treasures. Increased funding, advanced technology, and stringent legal frameworks are playing a crucial role in preserving the integrity of India’s historical landmarks. As India moves forward, sustained efforts and public awareness will be key to ensuring that future generations inherit the rich legacy of the nation’s past.
