Keno Daas rock carvings are an important archaeological site in Gilgit. It comprises several ancient inscriptions on numerous rocks from the 7th and 8th centuries A.D.
Danyor Rock Inscriptions is another valuable archaeological site in Danyor, Gilgit. It is a gigantic boulder bearing inscriptions from the 7th and 8th centuries A.D, most probably representing Buddhist culture.
The sites are located on the left bank of the Gilgit River along the Karakoram Highway, not too far from Karakoram International University, and are protected under the Pakistan Antiquities Act.
Unfortunately, in my recent visit to these sites in June 2021, I noticed disturbing signs of plundering and destruction on these rocks. Some reckless looters have tried to extract some of these carvings, and in this effort, irreparable damage has been caused to some of these rocks. Some others (probably tourists) have tried to inscribe their names and addresses on these rocks.
The entire site deserves urgent attention in terms of preservation security and documentation.
The Government of Gilgit-Baltistan as well as federal government of Pakistan and their relevant departments such as the archeology and district administration may take urgent action to ensure that this national and international treasure is no longer harmed.
Please share widely if you agree with this cause.
Dr Jawad Syed
#SaveKenoDaasCarvings#SaveDanyorCarvings #SaveCulturalHeritage #GilgitBaltistanSustainableTourismInitiative#GBSTI#ResponsibleTourism#GilgitBaltistan#Hunza#Gilgit#SustainableTourism#TravelWithRespect
South Asian Academy of Management 