UNESCO delegation reviews Hampi heritage conservation

A UNESCO World Heritage Centre expert team has arrived at the Hampi World Heritage site to review conservation measures, tourism development, and management practices. The delegation, led by George Amungu from Kenya and Ichida Shimoda from Japan representing the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS), held discussions with officials from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the Hampi World Heritage Area Management Authority, and various state and district departments.

Discussions focused on balancing the protection of historical monuments with the promotion of tourism and the creation of local employment opportunities. Officials from the Vijayanagara district administration and the Karnataka government presented ongoing and planned projects aimed at improving visitor facilities and tourism infrastructure.

The inspection programme includes visits to several prominent locations, such as the Vijaya Vittala Temple, Virupaksha Temple, and the ASI Museum in Kamalapura. The team is scheduled to continue consultations regarding Hampi’s master plan and integrated management through October 27.