Impacts of Non-Climatic Factors on Heritage Sites- A Case Study on Khalifataabad, Bangladesh

Abstract

Heritage sites are gradually becoming more vulnerable, due to natural decay and deterioration, effects of climate change, and non-climatic factors. An increased number of non-climatic human-induced impacts are causing significant problems in managing and conserving cultural heritages around the globe. For location and liberal cultural conceptualization, Bangladesh has a rich historical background with many remarkable cultural and natural heritage. Among many, the historic mosque city of Khalifatabaad, Bagerhat was enlisted as one of the world heritage sites by UNESCO in 1985 which is the only proven evidence of the ‘Khan-e-Jahan style’. UNESCO has already mentioned a few non-climatic factors which also made the heritage sites vulnerable along with the various climatic factors. Conservation of the historic landscape, buffer zone, and heritage property area is also addressed there. To identify the responsible human-induced non-climatic factors and their degree of impact on heritage sites are the primary aims of this research. Through site survey, detailed observation, documentation, oral statements records, and proper qualitative analysis the non-climatic issues like weak land-use policy, tourism policy & monitoring, implementation of land law and lack of social awareness are identified. For systematic data summary and findings, the Driver-pressure-state-impact-response (DPSIR) framework has been used.

Materials and Climate Change: A Set of Indices as the Benchmark for Climate Vulnerability and Risk Assessment for Tangible Cultural Heritage in Europe

“…The effects of CC on cultural assets extend beyond gradual temperature shifts and encompass abrupt alterations in the natural physical surroundings, such as storm surges, floods, landslides, and rising sea levels [3]. Furthermore, the recognition of non-climatic elements contributing to the vulnerability of cultural sites highlights the importance of adopting a comprehensive approach to assessing vulnerability [49].…”

Heritage Values and Community Perception: A Look Into the Historic Ruins of Dinajpur Rajbari

“…Excluding a few of these types of sites, the majority of historic ruins in Bengal, comprising many Zamindar houses, temples, mosques, landmarks, and ancient palaces, remain neglected. While Ali and Islam (2020) stated that many heritage sites are exposed to vandalism, uncontrolled development, and poor maintenance, Afroz (2022) points towards insufficient policies and ineffective approaches to their implementation as the reasons behind the endangerment of these sites. Over the past decade, a significant portion of the country's newspaper coverage of conservation issues has been dedicated to highlighting this neglect of ruined sites.…”