NMA Issues Draft Bylaws To Protect Ashokan Rock Edicts At Dhauli Near Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar: In order to ensure protection of rock inscription of the edicts of emperor Ashoka at Dhauli near Bhubaneswar, the National Monument Authority (NMA) under the Culture Ministry has come out with draft heritage bylaws.

The NMA has taken the step in view of construction activities in some parts of Dhauli hills close to Santi Stupa. At present, the north and north-west direction of the monument is occupied by the Dhauli hills which have several monuments of archaeological and architectural importance while construction activities have been reported from south and east directions of the monument.

The rock inscription is surrounded by vegetation. While the rock edicts are under the protection of the Centre, the Ashoka Pillar and Shanti Stupa are protected by a trust.

“The NMA bylaws aim at restricting constructions in prohibited and regulated areas of the monument to protect the historical monuments,” TNIE quoted officials as saying.

As per the BDA’s comprehensive development plan of 2023, the site has been placed under a special heritage zone and specified as protected monuments.

Dhauli contains several rock edicts issued by Ashoka during his reign. The NMA has sought objections from the public over the draft bylaws by July 21.