Raipur: The Chhattisgarh Department of Culture has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to strengthen the conservation of protected monuments while improving tourist facilities at archaeological and heritage sites across the state.
The partnership will focus on systematic planning and development of visitor amenities and public infrastructure at centrally protected monuments and archaeological sites. The initiative aims to make heritage destinations more convenient and accessible for domestic and international tourists without compromising their historical character.
Development Plans to Be Prepared With ASI
Under the agreement, the Chhattisgarh government will work closely with ASI officials to prepare comprehensive development plans for identified heritage sites.
S Bharathidasan, Secretary, Culture and Tourism, said the objective is to provide visitors with a seamless and enriched experience while ensuring that the heritage value of the sites is preserved.
The proposed facilities will include clean drinking water stations, modern restrooms, shaded seating areas, cloakrooms, cafeterias and designated parking spaces.
Visitor information centres, site museums and informative signage are also planned to help tourists better understand the history and archaeological importance of each location.
Focus on Accessible and Inclusive Tourism
The MoU also places emphasis on making heritage sites more accessible to persons with disabilities.
The planned facilities will include Braille-enabled signage and tactile pathways, along with other accessibility measures. Landscaping and site design will also be developed according to the character and requirements of individual heritage locations.
The approach is intended to combine visitor convenience with sensitive development around historically significant structures.
ASI Approval Mandatory for Development Work
Preservation of the original character and structural integrity of protected monuments will remain a key requirement under the partnership.
Officials said proposed architectural designs, construction materials and development methods will have to comply with applicable archaeological laws and regulations. No development work will be undertaken without prior approval from the ASI.
This mechanism is intended to ensure that new visitor infrastructure does not damage the historical fabric or authenticity of protected monuments.
Multiple Funding Sources Planned
The infrastructure development will be supported through multiple funding channels. These are expected to include central financial assistance, funding from state agencies, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) contributions and Public-Private Partnerships (PPP).
The Chhattisgarh government or its authorised agencies will remain responsible for the long-term operation, management and maintenance of the facilities developed under the initiative.
Planning and Implementation Committee to Monitor Projects
A dedicated Planning and Implementation Committee will also be constituted to coordinate conservation requirements with tourism infrastructure development.
The committee will monitor projects from the planning stage through implementation and subsequent asset management. Its role will include ensuring coordination between the state government, ASI and agencies involved in developing and maintaining visitor facilities.
The MoU marks an effort to link heritage conservation with planned tourism infrastructure, with the state government seeking to improve visitor experiences while keeping the protection of archaeological sites at the centre of development.
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