NEW YORK, USA, October 2011 (First Post): The 18th century Balaji Ghat, situated along the river Ganges in Varanasi, is among over 60 endangered cultural heritage sites in the world that are in dire need of preservation, according to World Monuments Fund (WMF), a private foundation.
WMF said, Balaji ghat is an “important example of the buildings constructed along the Ganges to serve pilgrims worshiping at the holy river” in Varanasi, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Collapse of the main building of Balaji ghat, likely from decay of the wood, points to inadequate conservation, maintenance as well as poor heritage protection, it said.
“Inclusion in the watch will support a plan to restore the building for use as a cultural centre and help to continue an ancient tradition of pilgrimage and enlightenment.”
“The World Monuments Watch is a call to action on behalf of endangered cultural-heritage sites across the globe. And while these sites are historic, they are also very much of the present–integral parts of the lives of the people who come into contact with them every day,” WMF President Bonnie Burnham said.