State of Conservation (SOC)

Requests Approved: 0 (from1986-1986)
Total Amount Ap proved: 20,000USD

Lack of capacity in conservation techniques; Lack of management mechanism (including legislation); Lack of monitoring system; Lack of human or financial resources.

Additional Details:

Deterioration of the authentic characteristics of the property

Following the recommendation resulting from a second UNESCO mission in October 2002, the Government of Bangladesh reported in February 2004 that the moratorium regarding the conservation of the Paharpur Monastery has continued. Upon recommendation by UNESCO consultants, the photographs of terracotta plaques have already been given to the UNESCO Dhaka Office and their inventory is in progress as a precaution against theft and to facilitate future study.

With regard to the above-mentioned report of February 2004, ICOMOS commented that no reference had been made to the absence of photographic information and lack of action taken with regard to the “fragmentary terracotta plaques in the custodian’s house”, as reported by the UNESCO mission undertaken in March 2003. In these circumstances, the execution of the work foreseen by UNESCO cannot be evaluated. In addition, regarding the moratorium, ICOMOS suggested that its purpose be made clear to the authorities so that immediate measures be taken for regular inspection and remedial conservation action, as the moratorium could be used to delay or stop minor work being carried out at the property. 

Additionally, within the framework of the France-UNESCO convention, the French Government approved a 17,000 Euro project for the organization of a workshop to elaborate an archaeological research strategy on a long-term basis for the Paharpur Vihara. This Workshop took place in March 2004, aiming to evaluate the heritage values, review problems of site management and discuss how to sustainably conserve, preserve and promote the site. A coherent strategy for archaeological research, safeguard, conservation and management of the site was also defined. A draft workplan concerning the conservation of the terracotta plaques and the monument, site and environmental visitor management, and long-term strategies was proposed by the participants.

On 30 March 2004, the authorities of Bangladesh submitted two International Assistance requests: one for Training and one for Technical Co-operation for the Paharpur site. The Technical Co-operation request will be included in the working document for International Assistance to be presented at the 28th session of the Committee.