Publications
Development of Archaeological, Religious and Ecotourism in Sindh: Lessons from the Southeast Asian Nations
Sindh, Pakistan, possesses significant potential for tourism development, yet its industry remains underdeveloped despite hosting two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Mohenjo-Daro and the Makli Necropolis. These sites, along with Sindh's rich archaeological, religious, and cultural heritage, could attract substantial domestic and international tourists. The study highlights that Southeast Asian nations like Malaysia and Indonesia, which share similarities in religious demographics and tourism strategies, have successfully developed their tourism sectors. By adopting similar strategies—such as leveraging public-private partnerships (PPP) and focusing on religious, cultural, and ecotourism—Sindh could unlock its tourism potential, generating significant economic benefits.
Makli Necropolis: A Tapestry of Ethnic Respect and Interfaith Harmony in South Asian Heritage
The Makli Necropolis stands as a testament to South Asia's historical interfaith harmony and multicultural coexistence, offering profound insights into the region's pluralistic past. This study reveals how Islamic, Hindu, Persian, and indigenous cultures blended seamlessly in its architectural structures and shared cemetery spaces, reflecting mutual respect and tolerance. By analyzing Makli's religious significance and historical evolution, the research demonstrates its role as a symbol of successful cultural amalgamation amid contemporary challenges of polarization. The findings contribute to broader debates on heritage conservation, cultural diversity, and the mobilization of historical memory for shaping modern identities.
Integrating Copernicus Satellite Products and Ground-Truthing for Documenting and Monitoring the Impact of the 2022 Extreme Floods in Pakistan on Cultural Heritage
A novel methodology combining Copernicus satellite products (Sentinel-1 and 2) with ground-truthing reveals the previously underdocumented impact of Pakistan's 2022 floods on UNESCO World Heritage Sites and national cultural heritage. The study, conducted by a multidisciplinary team, analyzed damage to sites in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Sindh using remote sensing data and geospatial datasets, providing critical evidence for risk management. Unlike prior assessments focused on infrastructure, this approach highlights the vulnerability of archaeological sites to climate-induced disasters. The findings underscore the feasibility of replicating this method for future disaster mapping and decision-making, aligning with national and international conservation frameworks.
Numerical Modelling of Soil-Nail and Secant Pile in Plaxis 2D: A Case Study of Tomb of Jam Nizam-al-Din Samoo, Makkli Thatta
A numerical analysis using Plaxis 2D reveals that secant piles can significantly reduce the settlement of the Tomb of Jam Nizam-al-Din Samoo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site at Makli, Thatta. The study found that installing secant piles of 12 meters effectively mitigates slope degradation-induced subsidence, offering an economical alternative to retaining walls. Additionally, soil nails installed on the eastern side of the slope improved its Factor of Safety (FOS), reducing the risk of failure and potential tilting or collapse of the tomb. The FOS decreased from 1.36 to 1.10 as the slope angle increased from 45° to 35°, highlighting the critical role of structural interventions in preserving heritage structures on unstable terrains.
Identify the Archaeological Research of Thatta District Through Geo-Spatial Technologies: A Case Study of Makli Graveyard and Banbhore Fort
Archaeological research on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Makli Graveyard and Banbhore Fort in Thatta, Sindh Province, reveals significant insights into the region's historical civilization through advanced geospatial technologies. The study, utilizing Landsat-8 satellite imagery and Digital Elevation Models (DEM), demonstrates how these sites have thrived despite geographical vulnerabilities, such as proximity to rivers and environmental threats. Banbhore Fort stands out as Sindh’s most important port, showcasing resilience and historical significance. The research highlights the effectiveness of remote sensing in classifying land cover patterns and artifacts, providing a comprehensive spatial and temporal analysis of the region's archaeological landscape.
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