Encroachments, Neglect Threaten Buddhist Heritage in North Andhra

Visakhapatnam: The rich Buddhist legacy in North Andhra finds reflection at sites like Thotlakonda, Pavurallakonda, Bavikonda, Bojjannakonda, Salihundam and Ramatheertham. Scholars focused on them to research their unique narratives. Tourists came to get awed by the ancient artistry.

However, these historical locales are now on a worrying decline. Their preservation has lost priority, affecting their religious and cultural tourism potential.

For example, perched on a hill near Visakhapatnam, Thotlakonda once had a thriving Buddhist monastery. It symbolised the prominence of Buddhist teachings in the region, offering strategic views of the sea. Today, it suffers from infrastructural decay. Lack of care and neglect of visitor facilities have diminished Thotlakonda’s role as an educational and cultural beacon.

Then, there is Pavurallakonda close to Bheemunipatnam. It is one of the largest Buddhist monastic sites in north Coastal Andhra. The ancestry of its artefacts date from 3rd Century BCE to 2nd Century CE, testifying an extensive Buddhist presence. But years of neglect has left the site exposed to elements. Minimal attempts have been made to restore its structural integrity or enhance its appeal to tourists.

Similarly, Bavikonda near Visakhapatnam remains renowned for its ancient monastic remains. Once a bustling hub for Buddhist practitioners, the ravage time has caused is discernible, particularly when no adequate conservation efforts have been made. Likewise, Bojjannakonda only offers a poignant glimpse of early Buddhist era through its rock-cut stupas and monastic ruins.

In Srikakulam district, Salihundam distinguishes itself with well-preserved stupas and chaityas. Excavations have revealed intricate carvings and inscriptions that chronicle the spread of Buddhism along the Andhra coast. Despite its archaeological significance, the site has gone into neglect. Tourist infrastructure is outdated. Visitors fail to grasp the grandeur of the place as there is none to guide them in this regard.

Ramateertham in Vizianagaram district is known for its archaeological relics and inscriptions. It provides a valuable insight into Buddhism's architectural and cultural heritage. However, insufficient conservation efforts and mounting neglect overshadow its historical value.

Despite the shortcomings, visitors and historians do turn up at these sites. But they face numerous challenges. Damaged signboards obscure their historical contexts. Educational opportunities are lost as there are no interpretation facilities. Basic amenities, such as shelter and toilets are unavailable.

On top of these, unauthorised structures have come up compromising the integrity of these hallowed places.

Heritage conservationist Jayshree Hatangadi says, "At the very least, the government must safeguard these sites. Encroachments at the sites are rampant. Constructing boundary walls would provide the much-needed protection."

When Deccan Chronicle approached for comment, Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) divisional manager G. Jagadish, said the government is formulating development plans. They have also met the Visakhapatnam district collector over this matter.

However, the slow pace of implementation is frustrating. Local conservationists want immediate action to preserve these irreplaceable cultural treasures for future generations.