Bamyan’s Chahl Burja fort nearing extinction

BAMYAN (Pajhwok): The Qala-i-Chahl Burja, a historic fort with 40 towers built around it in the Yakawalang-II district of central Bamyan provinces has been nearing extinction due to negligence on the part of the government.

The historic fort is believed to be dating back to the Kushan Empire in the early first century, located on the top of a sandy hill. Around the hill, 40 metres high as many towers surround the port, decorated with artistic work and triangular type holes.

Abdul Majeed Jelya, director of protection and maintenance of historic sites in Bamyan, said historic sites in Bamyan were not looked after properly and they were on the path to destruction. He added two to three percent of relics in Bamyan were destroyed annually.

He added the Ministry of Information and Cultural Affairs had conducted initial investigation to further explore the Chehal Burja site, but no steps followed. “No specific budget has been provided to our department for this purpose.”

He said a military ground was situated near the fort on a three acres of land. The ground might be used for sports, training, official events and others, he said.

The Chehl Burja is located 120 metres above the nearest river and a huge well is situated inside the fort. The well has stairs but mud has accumulated in the well bed with the passage of time.

On the towers drawings of human statues and snakes could be seen. According to the cultural ministry officials and experts the drawings showed the fort belonged to pre-Islamic period.

Yakawlang-II district chief Mohammad Ibrahim Akbari said the Chahl Burja was the only historic place in the area and the government should take necessary steps for its protection.

He said Bamyan was known for its historic sites and places if properly maintained and protected, these sites could attract tourists.

Haji Mohammad, a resident of the area, told Pajhwok Afghan News the government had done nothing to protect historic sites despite the fact winter snowfalls and rains threatened these sites.

The Yakawalang-2 was recongnised as a separate district from Yakawlang one year ago. It borders Ghor and Sar-i-Pul provinces.

nh/ma

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