Presentation on glorious heritage of holy city

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, December 15

A comprehensive Powerpoint presentation was made on, “Amritsar, the city of glorious heritage: Retrospection and future vision”, by Prof Balvinder Singh, conservation expert, at a local hotel today. He highlighted, with the help of rare photographs, the tangible and intangible heritage, particularly of the Walled City.

Dr Balwinder Singh elaborated upon the vanished as well as vanishing glorious heritage. He also highlighted the spatial patterns, especially the labyrinth street patterns, which are still relevant in enhancing social intimacy and act against crime, such as snatching incidents.

The conservation expert critically evaluated the ongoing projects and pointed out that stakeholders were never consulted in the projects except in smart city. Only in the smart city project were stakeholders consulted in their respective areas. Various projects have been prepared by incorporating the views of the stakeholders and NGOs of the city.

Dr Balwinder Singh raised critical questions about the HRIDAY projects of Katra Ahluwalia and Gol Bagh, where interlocking tiles have been used without understanding the historical importance of both the areas. Even in the 40 Khu area, an RCC wall has been constructed without understanding the views of the stakeholders. He pointed out that traditional material like lime and surkhi should be used in historic buildings whereas cement is being used in new constructions.

Labyrinth street patterns discussed

Dr Balwinder Singh elaborated upon the vanished as well as vanishing  glorious heritage.  He also highlighted the spatial patterns, especially the  labyrinth street patterns, which are still relevant in enhancing social intimacy and act against crime.