United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

CULTURE

Resources

Conservation of Jam Nizamuddin Tomb, Thatta

Conservation of Jam Nizamuddin Tomb, Thatta
The project aims at providing comprehensive information on the present condition of the structure of Jam Nizamuddin Tomb and soil condition for a proper conservation and restoration of the structure. Jam Nizamuddin Tomb is one of most significant structures of the World Heritage Site of Thatta-Makli. The World Heritage Site of Thatta-Makli spreads over 10 km, and consisting of a remarkable array of tombs, monasteries, mosques and enclosures, situated at the ridge of the Makli Hill. The uniquely Islamic religious character witnessed in the 'city of dead', is a consequence of the grouping of princes' and rulers' mausoleums close to the tombs and khanqahs (hermitages) of saints revered by them. The grouping consists of the earliest 14th century pre-Mughal Samma period, Tarkhan and Mughal periods (16th-18th century), and miscellaneous (Sufi clusters).
Over the years the entire site has become desolate. The shifting of the river and lack of other sources of water supply with consequent loss of vegetation has worsened the site conditions. Jam Nizamuddin Tomb is one of those structures that are located at the edge of the ridge, have developed cracks due to settlement caused by soil erosion and lack of protective embankment. Lack of adequate site drainage and vegetation ingree in the ruined
structures is also a reason for worsening the state of the monuments. The project aims at carrying out comprehensive baseline information which gives a detailed assessment of its present structural condition in regards to damage and deterioration of the stone surface and evaluation of soil condition. The comprehensive information in form of graphic documentation, AutoCAD drawings of plans all sections and photograph is very important in understanding the complex structural attributes and condition of the Site before developing a conservation strategy. Objectives: A. Baseline Information: Graphic Documentation, AutoCAD drawings of Plans all sections and elevations, location of crack and other signs of stress, detailed photography of all parts of all parts of monuments. B. Condition Survey Report focusing on present state of conservation, signs of interventions, sign of stress and possible remedial measure. Name and unique number of each element and photograph of each element. C. Geo-Technical Study: This includes Borehole investigation, field testing, laboratory testing, analysis and report. Progress Report - Jam Nizamuddin