Centuries-old mosque at risk

A report published by this newspaper on Wednesday highlighted quite clearly our lack of a sense of history when it comes to appreciating our heritage. Architectural structures of historic importance in our country are often neglected and end up in states of disrepair because of our failure in preserving them. From buildings in Old Dhaka crumbling or being forcefully occupied by the powerful to the numerous historic sites scattered throughout the country, when it comes to protecting these physical structures, we are woefully negligent. 

Our report highlighted how the 500-year old Chhoto Sona Masjid in Shibanj upazila of Chapainawabganj, a remnant from the time when Gaur was the capital of Bengal, is at risk due to the hundreds of cargo trucks plying the adjacent road daily. The constant vibration from the trucks is doing irreparable damage to the mosque's foundation, and if unchecked, could mean the loss of integrity of a centuries old building that has survived this long. Thankfully there are people who have brought the matter to the limelight, and the suggestion of constructing a bypass road to divert the traffic away from the mosque has been floated. But, the lack of initiative and urgency is worrying. The district's Roads and Highways Executive Engineer has talked about a bypass road to be constructed eventually, but when that would materialise is anyone's guess.

The importance of preserving the rich and diverse history of this land, where art and architecture took on so many forms, where the influence of the land and of its conquerors meshed to create novelties, should not be lost on anyone. On the practical side of things too, these sites can be capitalised on for promoting tourism. If we do not act now, then the Chhoto Sona Masjid might soon be confined to the pages of history books. A national initiative to act seriously towards preserving sites like this is crucial, now more than ever.