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Salkhan Fossils Park Gains Tentative UNESCO World Heritage Listing

Officials are finalizing a detailed dossier for permanent inscription, aiming for full World Heritage status by 2027.

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Located near Salkhan village, about 15 km from Robertsganj in Sonbhadra, the park has been the focus of dedicated efforts by the tourism department over the past year. (HT )
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Overview

  • The dossier for permanent inscription will be submitted by state tourism officials to the Indian government, triggering a UNESCO review and site evaluation that usually lasts about a year.
  • Salkhan Fossils Park covers 25 hectares near Robertsganj, flanked by the Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary and the Vindhya mountain range.
  • Geological studies conducted by the Birbal Sahni Institute have documented 1.4-billion-year-old stromatolites and algae fossils, providing insights into early life on Earth.
  • The push for UNESCO recognition began with a June 2024 MoU between the Uttar Pradesh Eco-Tourism Development Board and the Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences.
  • Officials anticipate that full World Heritage status will enhance Uttar Pradesh’s appeal as a premier destination for eco-tourism and scientific research.