From correspondents in Islamabad, Pakistan, 12:45 PM IST

Islamabad - Pakistan has approved Rs.35 million for the first phase of a Master Plan aimed at rehabilitating Mohenjodaro, the site of the Indus Valley civilization.

Under the plan, a study would be conducted to determine causes of deterioration of the site. Foreign consultants and Pakistani archaeologists differ on the reasons for the crumbling of the heritage.

Foreign consultants associated with the International Council of Monuments and Sites and Pakistani archaeologists would jointly carry out the study, the News newspaper said in a report from Larkana.

Experts would determine whether the atmosphere or the salts caused deterioration of the site. The experts would evolve a strategy to erect 314 bending walls in different areas of Mohenjodaro.

Archaeologist Ali Haider said a 'storm drainage plan' would be included in the plan.

Pakistan's department of archaeology had started preparing a second phase of the Master Plan that would include road diversions and construction of a 5.5-foot wall around the site.

They added that the site would be illuminated so that visitors can go round even after sunset.

(Staff Writer, © IANS)