Sambalpur: Regional Archives in Neglect Due to Staff Shortage in Sambalpur; Precious Heritage at Risk of Destruction

Sambalpur’s Regional Archives Facing Neglect

Sambalpur: The Regional Archives in Sambalpur is on the verge of losing its significance. Due to a lack of staff and poor maintenance, many valuable historical documents are at risk of damage. As a result, very few people visit the archives to read or conduct research.

Only Two Archives in Odisha

Odisha has only two archives:

1. The State Archives in Bhubaneswar, which preserves many valuable books and official gazettes.
2. The Regional Archives in Sambalpur, established in 1993 under the State Culture Department and Odia Language, Literature, and Culture Department.

Initially, the archives operated from an old, dilapidated Red Cross building in Bhutapada. However, due to moisture and dust, many valuable books were at risk of deterioration. Therefore, in 2014, the archives were relocated to a three-story building near Chepulia Rotary.

Building Relocated, But Problems Remain

Although the archives shifted to a new location, its condition did not improve. The main purpose of the Regional Archives is to collect and preserve government gazettes, ancient manuscripts, and historical records related to Sambalpur and Western Odisha. However, for the past two decades, no significant new documents have been added. Since 2002, there has been no noticeable growth in its collection.

Lack of Resources and Maintenance

The archives no longer receive even newspapers, but some British-era newspapers are still preserved. However, records from the COVID-19 period are missing. If the current neglect continues, the remaining intellectual treasures may soon be lost.

For years, dust accumulation has caused paper-eating insects to damage books. Initially, books develop small holes, and over time, they become completely destroyed. Although the archives have one secure locker, most books are scattered on iron shelves without protection.

Poor Building Condition

To maintain the three-story building, only one laborer is hired on a daily wage basis. While only one room on the first floor is functional, the remaining 80% of the building is covered in dust. When someone walks in, dust rises up to three feet high. Many walls have cracks, and plaster is peeling off from the ceiling.

Lack of Staff and Digitalization Efforts

When asked about these issues, Curator Kishore Nayak admitted that the building was poorly constructed, and urgent repairs are necessary. He stated, “We have written to the Works Department about the situation. There is a serious shortage of staff, but we are trying to protect the books as much as possible. We have also started digitization. Soon, students and researchers will be able to access these valuable books online from anywhere.”