- Centrally protected monuments of national importance to be made accessible for eco-tourism fillip
SHOPIAN: The historic Aliabad Sarai and Heerpora Sarai (resting places of Mughal Emperors) along Mughal Road in district Shopian are all set to regain their former glory in accordance with the initiative by the District Development Commissioner (DDC) and commitment of Archeological Survey of India (ASI) to restore and protect these centrally protected monuments.
These sarais, built during the Mughal era, have been under the Archaeological Survey of India's (ASI) protection since 1958 since they were transferred by the Government. However, due to rampant grazing in the premises, the monument at Aliabad has suffered damages which need to be restored. The restoration project aims to preserve the Mughal architecture of these monuments of national importance, using materials that are in sync with the original style, apprised AS'Is officers.
Further, to make Aliabad Sarai accessible to tourists, the wildlife department will develop an environmentally friendly approach path, a move, expected to give a boost to eco-tourism in the area, said DDC while chairing a meeting of top officers of district administration, ASI, Wildlife and Forest Departments.
It was also decided that restoration of Heeepora Sarai shall be initiated to bring back its original grandeur, using traditional Mughal architecture materials by the ASI. The DDC emphasized the importance of regaining the sheen of these historical monuments, which will not only preserve the heritage but also promote eco tourism in the region, keeping in view its location in wildlife sanctuary.
The administration has also decided to recommend Sukh Sarai to the Government for its take-over by ASI for restoration and preservation. DDC said an environmentally-friendly approach path, without any disturbance to the natural surroundings and eco-tourism promotion by showcasing the rich past of Shopian must be ensured. ADDC, Shopian, Dr.Nasir Ahmad Lone; ADC, Dr Zakir Hussain Faaz; ACR, DFO, DIO, officers of ASI, Wildlife Department and others attended the meeting.
