The report on the demolition of a heritage building in Amritsar (March 2) is shocking. It underscores the need to preserve and protect these buildings. Unfortunately, INTACH is not playing its role properly. It should have intervened and stopped the demolition.

There is a need to constitute an autonomous committee of experts which should identify all the heritage buildings in Punjab which can be saved and restored. Amritsar district is rich in art. It is reputed for its frescos and murals. Gurdwara Baba Atal Rai Sahib and Dera Baba Bir Singh and Dera Baba Khuda Singh at Tarn Taran are great examples. In 1999, I and Dr Sheharyar had highlighted the problem of decay, but little has been done to save the art. Let us wake up at least now before it is too late.

BRIJ BEDI, Amritsar