Photo : BSS

KHULNA, May 17, 2025 (BSS) - Speakers at an international seminar urged the government to incorporate the conservation of world heritage sites, historical infrastructure, and coastal culture into its national climate policy to safeguard these invaluable assets from the impacts of climate change.

The three-day seminar, organized under the International Initiative Preserving Legacies project focused on the historic mosque city of Bagerhat, concluded this afternoon at a local hotel in Khulna. 

Khulna Metropolitan Police Commissioner Md Zulfikar Ali Haider attended the closing session as chief guest, while Dr. Victoria Herman, Executive Director of the project, presided over the event virtually from Washington, D.C.

Speakers at the event highlighted the urgent need to integrate heritage preservation into the Bangladesh Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan (BCCSAP), first introduced in 2009 under the Environment Conservation Act of 1995. 

They noted that the current strategy lacks any specific mention of protecting heritage buildings and cultural landmarks, especially those in climate-vulnerable coastal zones.

Participants pointed out that there is a lack of coordinated initiatives, funding, skilled manpower, or dedicated action plans within government departments such as public works and archaeology to address these issues. 

They stressed the importance of involving local communities and elected representatives in preservation efforts to protect these cultural treasures, which serve as vital resources for education, tourism, and historical research.

In his remarks, KMP Commissioner called World Heritage Sites "unique national assets" and underscored the importance of collaboration among all sectors to ensure their protection. 

He also emphasized the role of law enforcement in maintaining security at these sites to prevent vandalism and neglect.

Dr. Khandaker Mahfuz-ud Darain, Chief Coordinator of the Bagerhat site team and professor at Khulna University's Architecture Discipline, presented a summary of the seminar's outcomes. 
He expressed optimism that the project would inspire broader efforts to conserve other heritage structures in the region and expand educational and research opportunities in related academic fields.

The event concluded with the distribution of certificates and crests to participants, acknowledging their contributions to the preservation initiative.