The historically maginificent Bhismaknagar archaeological site in Lower Dibang Valley district of Arunachal Pradesh, considered a hallowed place that represents the Bhismaknagar civilization, is in poor condition.
A team of teachers from Roing Government Higher Secondary School, who along with ADC W Tikhak and assistant research officer Jonomo Rando visited the fort recently, were disheartened the way it has been dumped, the team members said.
The fort needs to be preserved for researchers, historians and tourists alike as "The government needs to maintain and develop the place," said History teacher B R Das.
"The fort and the artefacts are in dismal condition and require immediate restoration to preserve them," Rando said adding, the government has to pursue archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to develop the heritage site to promote tourism and archaeological study in the state.
Bhismaknagar fort is located 30 km from Roing, and 35 km away from Lohit district headquarters Tezu.
The fort was built in the 8th century BC by king Bhismak, and flourished under the Chutiya dynasty from 12th to 16th centuries BC, before coming under the Ahom kings.
It was first excavated during 1969 to 1973.
The ASI had taken up the structure to preserve and secure the monument, ASI sources said.
Since the fort is drawing a lot of visitors these days because of improved surface communication, the need of the hour is to preserve and protect it, its artifacts and safeguard its position as a heritage site," they added.
