Learning from the vanishing built heritage of colonial architecture (a case of Abbottabad-Pakistan)

Abstract

Built Heritage is irreplaceable when it is at high risk; because culture cannot wait! The rapid urbanization is threatening the historic urban landscape and is making it increasingly vulnerable to natural hazards such as earthquake, Flooding, droughts and man-induced conflicts. These threats have obviously endangered the built heritage of colonial Architectural heritage in Abbottabad, once the garrison in British rule of India. In the early 20th century, Abbottabad became an important military cantonment. In October 2005 Abbottabad was devastated by the great earthquake, As a result most of built heritage became vanished, In order to preserve this valuable assets from vanishing which is the reflection of our past inherited from the British era in indo-Pakistan and then Pakistan. Most of the built heritage of Abbottabad, once vanished, is inimitable and now what we have is to conserve for the future. This could be only possible through practical approaches for the sustainable development. These approaches ranging from mass awareness campaign regarding the protection of built heritage, National legislation for the its protection needs to be revisited as per Antiquities Act of Pakistan gives protection only to 75 years or older buildings and cultural landscapes. Well equipped and trained people acquired for the conservation of built heritage through conservation Manuals and guidelines, These Manuals will educate un-skilled people, explaining the importance of the built heritage and cultural landscapes. It also explains the techniques for the repair and upkeep of historic sites, which will make sure that during repairing or reconstruction, antiquity or originality of the building or site may not be destroyed. In Pakistan, built heritage surrounded by the historic landscapes, Fragile and skillfully built towns like Abbottabad and Galliayat are now in shambles, what remains of their original designs and buildings are gravely endangered after this recent earthquake. Architecturally and historically significant built heritage is now at high stake and needs proper consideration of Archeologists, Architects and structure Engineers to make sure of keeping its true identity by maintaining its glorious history of British Empire, its antiquity and for the blooming of cultural tourism industry in Pakistan.