Andhra Pradesh trust proposes UNESCO World Heritage status for Nallamala Sanctuary

The Andhra Pradesh State Hindu Dharma Parirakshana Trust (HDPT) has proposed collective efforts to secure UNESCO World Heritage Site status for ‘Nallamala Sanctuary, River Gundlakamma’.

The Trust has cited the sanctuary’s outstanding natural and cultural significance in seeking recognition from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

The proposal is linked to an ongoing awareness tour by HDPT Chairman Dasari Srinivasulu, who is presently undertaking a nine-day padayatra along the banks of River Gundlakamma.

The padayatra commenced on October 11 and is aimed at protecting the water-body for future generations while preserving its rich heritage, according to the HDPT.

During the tour, Mr. Srinivasulu identified several ancient temples and historic sites that require immediate attention, including the Chandavaram Buddhist Stupa.

A case for mixed heritage recognition

Mr. Srinivasulu said the proposed site should be considered for recognition under both natural and cultural categories.

“Similar to Khangchendzonga National Park in Sikkim, which was recognised by the UNESCO as India’s first ‘Mixed’ World Heritage Site, the ‘Nallamala Sanctuary: River Gundlakamma’ also deserves the same status for a dual category of nature and culture,” Mr. Srinivasulu told The Hindu.

“It would offer a vital safeguard for an ancient ecosystem facing increasing environmental pressures,” he said.

He also pointed to what he described as the limited representation of the Eastern Ghats on the global conservation map.

“While India boasts numerous natural World Heritage sites in the Himalayas and the Western Ghats, the Eastern Ghats remain critically under-represented,” Mr. Srinivasulu said.

“Despite its tremendous ecological value, they remain largely missing on global conservation maps too,” he added.

According to Mr. Srinivasulu, World Heritage Site status for Nallamala Sanctuary would help safeguard its biodiversity and indigenous heritage.

Letters planned after the padayatra

Soon after completing the padayatra, the HDPT chief plans to write to the State government and the Union Ministry of Culture.

The letters will urge both authorities to seek World Heritage Site status for the cultural and natural landmark in the Eastern Ghats.

The proposal also comes in the context of Andhra Pradesh’s current position in UNESCO’s World Heritage list.

“Till now, not even a single site in Andhra Pradesh was officially recognised by the UNESCO,” the source said.

Source: The Hindu