Preservation Ofhistorical monuments at Mohenjodaro, Pakistan

Mohenjodaro z the remains of Indus Civilization of era 2500 BC z were unearthed in 1922 in Sind z Pakistan. It is a well developed civilization. The ruins which were in good shape started deteriorating soon after their excavation. The main causes were the rise of ground water table, the salt efflorescence and the threat of erosion by the river Indus. An effort was made to remove the salts by washing and chemical treatment. In 1973,with the collaboration of UNESCO experts a master plan was prepared. This consisted of protection against river erosion by constructing a guide bank and a spur, lowering of ground water table in 3 stages by installation of tube wells and preservation of structures. The protective works were being carried out. After the first stage lowering of water table z the capillary rise has been cutoff. The settlement due to lowering of water table would be within permissible limits. Proper surface drainage has been provided. Damp proof courses have been added in the structures. A spur has been Constructedtokeep the river away.