Jhenaidah heritage sites set to disappear for neglect

BENAPOLE, Feb 02: Jhenaidah's history is not merely a reflection of the past; it is the very identity of the region. However, the district's centuries-old historical and heritage structures-silent witnesses to the passage of time-are now facing severe neglect.
Due to lack of maintenance, unplanned use, and the absence of proper conservation and supervision, 21 heritage sites across the district's six upazilas are now at risk of disappearing.
Local residents warn that unless effective measures are taken immediately, the priceless stories of these structures will survive only in the pages of history books for future generations.
The Indigo Kuthi building at Khalishpur in Maheshpur upazila, constructed in the 19th century, once stood as an important reminder of the colonial era. Although it was listed in the Department of Archaeology's gazette on June 14, 2012, no effective initiative has been taken to ensure its preservation in reality.
Several other heritage sites in the district-including Miar Dalan, the historic Shahi Mosque of Shailkupa, the Naldanga Rajbari temple, the historic mosque at Barobazar, and the homesteads of peasant movement leader Ila Mitra and renowned mathematician KP Bose-are also heading towards destruction due to a lack of proper maintenance.
According to the Department of Archaeology, a total of 21 historically and archaeologically significant structures across six upazilas of Jhenaidah have been officially listed as heritage sites.
While these sites are state-protected on paper, in practice most remain outside any effective conservation or security measures. Despite their gazette status, real preservation efforts are virtually absent. These century-old structures continue to survive against time, but without regular restoration, security fencing, signboards, or caretakers, many are slowly fading away.
Experts and conscious citizens say that publishing a gazette alone does not fulfill responsibility. Protecting historical sites requires regular surveys, prompt restoration plans, adequate budget allocation, and active involvement of local communities. Otherwise, Jhenaidah may lose some of the most valuable testimonies of its history in the near future. These structures are not just remnants of the past; they are integral to local identity, history, and the district's potential tourism industry. Yet, due to neglect and lack of supervision, they are silently moving towards destruction.
Russell Ahmed of Maheshpur town said that after gazette listing, monitoring by the authorities concerned virtually comes to a halt. In some cases, complications have arisen as certain sites are located on privately owned land.
Abdul Aziz of Jhenaidah Sadar upazila said no significant steps have yet been taken by the administration to preserve the homestead of KP Bose. Despite being a place of interest for visitors, it is deteriorating day by day due to poor maintenance.
Oliar Rahman said the historic mosques of Barobazar are on the brink of destruction due to the absence of administrative supervision.
Sujan Biplob, member secretary of the Ila Mitra Memorial Preservation Council in Shailkupa, said urgent restoration, regular monitoring, and public participation are essential to protect these historical landmarks. "Responsibility does not end with gazette listing alone. Otherwise, these sites will one day disappear," he warned.
Jhenaidah Deputy Commissioner Abdullah Al Masud said the administration is giving importance to the preservation of heritage sites. "Initiatives will be taken in phases for restoration and supervision. Necessary steps will be implemented in coordination with the departments concerned," he said.

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