Archaeological Survey of India to seek help of locals
Public to be educated on protecting heritage monuments
Update: 2014-10-07 06:07 GMT
Chennai: The Archaeological Survey of India, piqued by the tendency of visitors to scribble or deface monuments, has decided to roll out the Swachch Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Campaign) to motivate people, particularly locals, to involve themselves in conserving national heritage. The premier national organisation, involved in protecting the nation’s cultural heritage, had utilised the October 2 campaign to initiate a massive one of its own. The officials at the local level have been directed to educate the public in protecting heritage monuments.
Despite having over 261 monuments, including several living temples under its ambit, the ASI has not felt burdened by their upkeep.But visitors’ lackadaisical attitude and disrespect for ancient monuments has been annoying for the apex body.The ASI has under its ambit numerous forts, churches, mosques, and World Heritage sites, namely the group of monuments at Mamallapuram near here and the Great Living Chola temples, Sri Brihadeswara temple in Thanjavur, Gangaikondacholapuram, Ariyalur, and the Sri Airavateswara temple in Darasuram, Thanjavur.
Also, authorities have drawn up plans to improve the basic amenities at the monuments wherever such facilities were lacking. “At Thiruvidanthai, the temple comes under the control of the State Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments department. So, we have asked for land to provide the amenities,” says G. Maheshwari, Superintending Archaeologist, Chennai Circle. In other places, the ASI plans to procure land and take up the work.