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Death creeping up on Persepolis as petrochemical pollution takes toll
The site, which was once the capital of the Achaemenid Empire, has been plagued by the growth of lichens and algae on its stone carvings for years. The pollutants, including ammonia and nitrogen compounds, emitted by the petrochemical complex are accelerating the growth of these biological agents, threatening to destroy the site, IRNA wrote.
A recent conference in Marvdasht, titled ‘The Role of Local Community in Sustainable Development of Persepolis,’ brought together local officials, experts, and community members to discuss the issue and potential solutions. The conference highlighted the devastating impact of chemical pollutants on the 2,500-year-old site.
“The pollution is a serious threat to the site, and if it continues, it will cause irreparable damage,” said an official from the Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts Department of Fars Province.
The issue is not new, and experts have been warning about the dangers of pollution from the petrochemical complex for years. However, the problem has been exacerbated by the complex’s continued operation and the lack of effective measures to address the issue. In recent years, the Iranian government has been promoting industrialization in the Fars Province, and the petrochemical complex is seen as a key part of this effort. However, experts say that the importance of preserving the country’s cultural heritage must not be forgotten.
“The industrialization of the province is important, but it should not come at the cost of our cultural heritage,” said an archaeologist attending the conference. “The petrochemical complex’s activities are causing irreparable damage to Persepolis, and something must be done to stop it.”
The conference organizers called on the government to take immediate action to address the issue and protect the site from further damage. They also emphasized the need for a comprehensive study to assess the impact of the pollution and develop effective measures to mitigate it.
Meanwhile, the petrochemical complex continues to operate without taking any measures to address the pollution. The company has shown no intention of relocating or reducing its activities, despite the warnings from experts.
The situation has raised concerns among locals and cultural heritage enthusiasts, who fear that the site may be lost forever if nothing is done to stop the pollution. A recent concert held at the site, which was criticized by some for potentially causing damage, has also highlighted the need for greater protection of the site.
“If a concert can cause damage to the site, what about the years of pollution from the petrochemical complex?” asked a local resident. “Something must be done to stop this destruction before it’s too late.”
The fate of Persepolis hangs in the balance, and experts warn that if nothing is done, the site may be lost forever.