THE IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON THE CULTURAL HERITAGE OF KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA

Abstract

The rich cultural legacy of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, is seriously threatened by climate change. Ancient monuments, historic sites, and archaeological riches are being destroyed by rising temperatures, unpredictable rainfall, and a rise in the frequency of extreme weather events. Landslides and floods can cause damage to the region's famous Buddhist ruins, like Abba sahib china (swat), Aziz Dheri, Hund museum(Swabi),Kafirkot (Dera Ismail khan), Buner and Takht-i-Bahi, Jamal Ghari(Mardan), and temperature changes can harm the priceless treasures of the Gandhara culture. Furthermore, the customs, folklore, and indigenous knowledge of the affected populations are being undermined by migration and relocation brought on by climate change. This study highlights the critical need for conservation efforts and adaptive solutions to preserve the region's priceless history and identity by examining the damaging effects of climate change on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's cultural heritage.

Keywords: Climat Change, Gandhara, Takht-i-Bahi, Hund museum, cultural heritage,