Islamabad, July 27, 2026: The Senate Standing Committee on National Heritage and Culture on Monday reviewed UNESCO’s observations regarding conservation work at the archaeological sites of Mohra Moradu and Sirkap in Taxila, while directing the government to submit a comprehensive report on the repatriation of smuggled archaeological artefacts recovered from the United States.
The committee met at Parliament House under the chairmanship of Senator Hidayatullah Khan. The meeting was attended by Senators Abdul Wasay, Bushra Anjum, Sarmad Ali and Syed Waqar Mehdi, along with Secretary National Heritage and Culture and senior officials of the ministry.
Officials briefed the committee on UNESCO’s reservations concerning conservation measures undertaken by the Directorate General of Archaeology, Punjab, at the Taxila archaeological sites. They explained that after the 18th Constitutional Amendment, heritage conservation became a provincial subject and the Punjab government initiated restoration work at the sites.
The committee was informed that UNESCO had sought additional information regarding the conservation work, which had already been provided by the Punjab government. Officials said no further concerns had been communicated after the submission of the requested documentation and that restoration activities were being carried out in accordance with UNESCO’s conservation guidelines.
During the briefing, officials said the conservation programme for the Taxila World Heritage Site, including Mohra Moradu and Sirkap, had been designed in line with the recommendations of UNESCO, ICOMOS and the Urban Unit. The restoration strategy, they said, follows internationally recognised conservation principles, including reversibility, distinguishability, material compatibility, scientific repair, masonry consolidation and improved drainage to ensure the long-term preservation of the archaeological remains.
The committee was also informed that Pakistan currently has six UNESCO World Heritage Sites, while dossiers for 24 additional sites have been prepared and submitted for future inscription. Officials noted that UNESCO generally considers only one nomination from each country annually, adding that Pakistan has requested priority consideration for its pending nominations.
During the discussion, Senator Syed Waqar Mehdi sought details of UNESCO’s observations. Officials said the concerns mainly related to the construction materials used, restoration methodology and the height of reconstructed structures. They added that these issues had been addressed through comprehensive documentation and scientific conservation practices.
The committee also reviewed proposals for developing Taxila as a heritage city. Officials said approximately Rs100 million had been spent on conservation activities during the current year, while additional initiatives, including an open-air museum and improved visitor facilities, were under consideration. Coordination with provincial governments was also continuing where archaeological sites extended across provincial boundaries.
Senator Bushra Anjum stressed the need for stronger federal oversight of heritage conservation despite its devolution under the 18th Amendment. She also called for improved tourism infrastructure, including accommodation facilities, visitor services and a sustainable business model to generate tourism revenue while ensuring the protection of heritage sites.
The committee directed the ministry to share UNESCO’s formal response once received and recommended a visit by committee members to the Taxila archaeological sites to assess the conservation work firsthand.
The committee also received a detailed briefing on the repatriation of Pakistani archaeological artefacts from the United States. Officials informed members that 513 artefacts, primarily belonging to the Gandhara civilisation, had been returned to Pakistan under bilateral cooperation with the United States after being seized by US authorities from illegal trafficking networks.
Officials said the recovered artefacts, described as invaluable national treasures, are now in government custody. They added that plans were underway to establish a dedicated museum for their preservation and public display, with land acquisition being pursued in coordination with the Capital Development Authority (CDA). Public-private partnership options are also being explored for the project.
Committee members sought details regarding the smuggling network, the individuals involved, the total number of missing artefacts and the value of the recovered collection. The committee directed the ministry to submit a comprehensive report covering the investigation, recovery process, estimated value of the artefacts and the status of ongoing inquiries.
The committee further discussed reports regarding the demolition of a historic Mughal-era arch near Rohara village for a housing development project. Chairman Senator Hidayatullah Khan directed the ministry to collect complete information on the matter and present a detailed briefing at the committee’s next meeting.
Concluding the meeting, the chairman reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to safeguarding Pakistan’s cultural and archaeological heritage through effective conservation, stronger institutional coordination, enhanced tourism planning and strict action against the illegal trafficking of antiquities.
