In a recent development, the Archeological Survey of India (ASI) has expressed concern over continued encroachment around the ‘Nalanda Mahavihara’ in Bihar’s Nalanda district. The ASI has written a letter to the Bihar government, highlighting the alleged indifference of the local administration towards this issue.
The Superintending Archaeologist of ASI, Goutami Bhattacharya, addressed the letter to Harjot Kaur Bamhrah, the Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) Art, Culture and Youth department of the Bihar government. Bhattacharya suggested that if the local administration finds it challenging to retain the vacant land, the custodianship should be handed over to ASI. This way, appropriate developments can be implemented at the site.
Currently, ASI’s jurisdiction does not extend beyond the boundary wall, restricting their expenditure. Bhattacharya emphasized that the recurring encroachment around the ‘Nalanda Mahavihara’ and the Archeological Museum poses a threat to maintaining the Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) of the World Heritage site, as well as its authenticity and integrity.
The Nalanda Mahavihara, located about 95 km southeast of Patna, is renowned as one of the ancient world’s greatest universities. It was established by Kumaragupta I of the Gupta dynasty. Being a UNESCO World Heritage site, it carries significant historical and cultural value.
In her letter, Bhattacharya pointed out the commitments made by the local administration during the declaration of the ‘Nalanda Mahavihara’ as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2016. One of these commitments was the relocation of vendors around the site to improve its main thoroughfare. However, despite the passage of eight years, the vendors are yet to be relocated, negatively impacting the overall ambience of the site.
Bhattacharya expressed her anguish and frustration in the letter, explaining how the shops were dismantled during the UNESCO team’s visit, but the vendors returned due to the absence of an alternate space. Although the encroachments were cleared before the G-20 delegates’ visit, they resurfaced soon after. Bhattacharya stressed the need for a permanent solution to this issue.
The Bihar government’s Additional Chief Secretary of the Art, Culture, and Youth department assured that they would take all necessary steps to preserve the sanctity of the world heritage site. However, the letter from ASI is yet to be received, according to the official.
The encroachment issue surrounding the ‘Nalanda Mahavihara’ is a significant concern that needs urgent attention. The Bihar government must address the ASI’s concerns and work towards a permanent solution to protect the sanctity and integrity of this revered World Heritage site.
