Khirthar National Park
Baseline Environmental Study

Summary

1. A total of 78 archaeological sites were recorded during the two-week field survey conducted in September 2000.

2. These sites range in age from approximately 5000 years BP (before present) to approximately 100 years BP.

3. Only sites with visible surface remains were recorded during the survey. No excavation or sub surface testing was carried out.

4. Survey work was carried out in four defined districts of the park, with occasional recording of sites in other areas, as observed during transit from one area to another. The survey concentrated on the flatter, more open valley floors and along permanent water-courses. The arid tops of mountain ranges were not surveyed.

5. Types of site recorded include: •lithic scatters •rock art sites •multi-period habitation sites •hydraulic works •monumental defensive architecture •single structures •cemeteries.

6. The survey revealed traces of archaeological sites which are highly significant in local, regional and global contexts. These include an extremely important but visually unimpressive rock art site and the visually spectacular, but comparatively modern Rani Kot fort.

7. Issues regarding management of archaeological sites in the park must take into account:

•protection of sites from natural destructive processes, including wind and water erosion;
•damage caused by human activities such as pastoralism, agriculture, land clearance, and vandalism;
•access to significant sites for tourism, educational and recreation purposes;
•preservation of antiquities for future excavation and archaeological examination.

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