Condition Assessment: Identification of Threats and Review of Existing Structures of Wah Gardens for Prioritization of Treatment Recommendations

Abstract

Wah Gardens’ historic fabric and physical environment including their cultural setting, buildings, water landscaped gardens, and artistic creations reflect the rich cultural heritage of the Mughal period. Wah Gardens that once depicted the prospects of regality and magnificence lie in ruins presently due to the climatic conditions, negligence of the concerned authorities and anthropogenic vandalism. These cultural assets are the physical evidence of the past. They carry a distinct and unforgettable image in the life of residents that needs to be preserved for future generations to give them their own sense of place and identity. The objective of this research is to identify the threats faced by this marvelous heritage site and review the condition of the heritage structures in order to preserve this cultural heritage resource for the future. Condition assessment and review was carried out to record the existing situation of the buildings as well as the surrounding landscape in order to develop appropriate recommendations for reviving the essence of this vibrant cultural heritage site. The prioritization of recommendations was formulated according to the condition assessment of the Wah Gardens.