From June 29 to July 2, 2024, Dr. Sonam Wangchok, the founder of the Himalayan Cultural Heritage Foundation, conducted a field visit to Zanskar to assess the state of heritage monuments during the ongoing rapid development projects, such as the building of roads from Himachal Pradesh, Leh, and Kargil. In order to emphasise the significance of preserving Zanskar’s legacy, he met with representatives of the Zanskar Gonpa Association (ZGA) and the Zanskar Buddhist Association (ZBA). They also jointly addressed a press conference. Speaking to media representatives, ZGA members, and ZBA members, Dr. Wangchok stated that while road connection and development are crucial for national security and public convenience but it shouldn’t be at the cost of historically significant monuments.
He believes that the recent widening and construction of new roads may have resulted in the demolition or dismantling of several historic structures. He also makes a plea to the community of Zanskar to prevent the destruction of Zanskar’s unique and indigenous architecture in favour of the construction of contemporary concrete structures. Zanskar is a land rich in natural and cultural history that needs to be maintained for future generations, he added, while also voicing concern for the existence of heritage sites during the rapid rate of development in the region. “Zanskar must consider how important it is to preserve its historical assets as it advances towards modernization, development, and progress. The preservation of heritage is about preserving Zanskar’s cultural identity and history, not only individual monuments.”, said Dr. Sonam. He emphasised that, in order to protect the priceless treasures of the past and ensure their survival for future generations, all stakeholders need to work together.
For this, he proposed that HCHF will host a seminar in August, 2024 to discuss heritage-related topics in depth and raise awareness among the locals, particularly the heads of the villages and students from Zanskar’s colleges and schools. He appreciated the youth of Zanskar who encouraged him to visit the heritage sites in Zanskar, which shows their concern about their cultural heritage, which is on the verge of extinction. Dr. Wangchok also appreciated the Goba of Stongday for initiating the restoration of stupas in the village with traditional local materials and maintaining their architectural and historical values.
The president of ZGA and the representative from ZBA thanked Dr. Wangchok for visiting the heritage sites in Zanskar, and they requested that Dr. Wangchok provide constant guidance, expertise, and heritage education for the people of Zanskar to make sure that the heritage of Zanskar will be safeguarded. They also assured full support and collaboration for organising the seminar to be held in August 2024.
Dr. Wangchok was accompanied by Kargil’s renowned historian, Mohd Sadiq Hardassi, who has written about the noble families of Zanskar and their contributions in his books. Additionally, Mohd Sadiq urges the people of Zanskar to protect the historical landmarks, which are significant not only for Zanskar but also for scholars and students worldwide.
Later on, the honourable executive councillor, LAHDC Kargil, Phuntsok Tashi called Dr.Wangchok and expressed gratitude for his visit to Zanskar and his efforts in spreading awareness of the value of cultural heritage and its preservation. In addition, he assured contributions and assistance for the August seminar in Zanskar. Former Deputy Director of Archives, Archaeology, and Museum, Tsering Tashi, was also present at the press briefing earlier and expressed his concern about the preservation of heritage sites in Zanskar.
Sonam Dechen
For Heritage Himalaya
