Published on November 9, 2013

The Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemicals Investment Region (PCPIR) stretching from Visakhapatnam to Kakinada is undoubtedly proving to be a huge investment magnet bringing a racket of investments into the region , but the project is posing a huge threat to heritage sites, especially ancient Buddhist sites, that are almost 2000 years old. Approximately 12 out of the 16-18 heritage sites face the threat of being vandalized if the PCPIR goes through without the sites being salvaged first.

As per the Heritage conservationists, though trench digging was done and the sites were identified, they haven’t been marked as protected sites yet. Moreover excavations at these places were not carried forward for various reasons. However, even the five identified sites are being vandalized and ravaged, especially Paavuralakonda, Bavikonda, for development and conservation of Buddhist Circuit. Five sites that have been identified by the ministry of tourism include Kothuru Dibbalu, Bojannakonda near Anakapalle. Both of these places are situated on the banks of the river Pavuralakonda and Sharada, Bavikonda and Thotlakonda near river Gosthani. While the rest are under the jurisdiction of the state ministry of culture and tourism, out of these only Kothuru Dibbalu and Bojannakonda are under the measured control of ASI.

As per the sources in the tourism department for developing a proper Buddhist tourism circuit, the sites, need to be first identified, both known and suspected. The Visakhapatnam Urban Development Authority (VUDA) officials said that instructions had been given to the consultants drawing up the final master plan, regarding the threat to the PCPIR. The issue is likely to be further discussed next Monday for surveillance suggestions and further improvements.

By

Shruti Acharya - Author