Tehran’s Groundbreaking Conference: Harnessing AI to Safeguard Historical Sites from Natural Disasters
In a significant move to blend technology with heritage conservation, a conference dedicated to crisis management and the protection of Iran’s historical monuments is set to explore the pivotal role of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. This initiative aims to prevent and mitigate the damage caused by natural disasters, a growing concern in the disaster-prone nation.
During a press conference on Sunday, Mohammad Ebrahim Zarei, Head of the Cultural Heritage Ministry’s Research Institute, emphasized the urgent need for protective measures, stating, “Iran is a disaster-prone country. We are in a land of unrest, and we want to do something to prevent anything from happening to us. For the first time, a special department has been created to deal with the crises. Cultural heritage is the cultural and identity foundation of our Iran and it must be protected,” as reported by Mehr news agency.
Zarei issued a stark warning, noting that none of Iran’s historical monuments are immune to earthquakes. He outlined the conference’s program, which will take place at prominent venues such as the National Museum of Iran, Malek Museum, and Niavaran Palace, highlighting the connection between knowledge and technology.
He expressed hope that this conference would serve as a platform for collaboration among managers and technologists in Iran, stating, “We need the support of these groups to implement the program so that we can take effective steps on the path of national resilience based on current knowledge and domestic capacities.”
In addressing the importance of preservation, Zarei added, “So far, we have identified more than a million artifacts. If we claim that all of them are safe from earthquakes, we are lying. We must take care of them. These conferences are held to prevent crises.”
Additionally, he highlighted the Ministry of Cultural Heritage’s initiative to address subsidence issues with the assistance of the National Cartographic Center, emphasizing the need for actionable guidelines resulting from the conference discussions.
Mehdi Zare’, the scientific secretary of the conference and chief of earthquake prediction at the International Institute of Earthquake Engineering and Seismology, noted the significance of Iran’s rich civilizational history. He cited notable sites such as the Burnt City of Sistan-Baluchestan province, Bam Citadel in Kerman province, and the ruined city of Tabas as examples of the threats facing cultural heritage.
Zare’ remarked, “The destruction of the city of Tabas is a reminder of the dangers facing the cultural heritage.” He illustrated the need for informed actions by referencing the Varamin Grand Mosque, stating that aerial photographs from 60 years ago reveal its historical significance as a relic of the Ilkhanid period and a reminder of the Varamin earthquake.
As the conference approaches, Zare’ noted, “In order to renovate and bring out historical heritage and protect it, we need to know what to do with these sites.”
This scientific conference will emphasize practical applications, relying heavily on specialized workshops and training courses. A total of 190 papers have been submitted to the conference secretariat, with 90 accepted for presentation. It features 14 one-day workshops and various round tables to facilitate comprehensive discussions.
The comprehensive conference on crisis management and HSE (health, safety, environment) will focus on the themes of safety, protection, and environmental concerns related to crisis management and the safeguarding of Iran’s cultural heritage. It is scheduled to take place from November 10 to 12 at Parseh Hall of the Cultural Heritage Ministry’s Research Institute.
The integration of AI technologies into heritage conservation strategies could revolutionize how Iran protects its invaluable cultural assets. As the conference date approaches, the anticipation grows regarding the potential breakthroughs that may arise from the collaboration of experts across various fields.
- Event: Conference on Crisis Management and Cultural Heritage Protection
- Dates: November 10-12
- Locations: National Museum of Iran, Malek Museum, Niavaran Palace
- Key Topics: AI technologies, earthquake prevention, preservation strategies
- Significance: National resilience and cultural heritage protection
In conclusion, this conference represents a critical step forward in safeguarding Iran’s rich historical legacy. By harnessing modern technology and fostering collaboration among experts, the hope is to create effective measures that ensure the protection of cultural heritage for future generations.
