Numerous historic structures in Narail now stand as remnants of the region's rich heritage of aristocracy, but are crumbling due years of neglect and deterioration.

These include the century-old Hathbaria Zamindar Palace, Hathbaria temple, and Nam Ghat (also known as Badha Ghat) on the bank of Chitra river, among others.

According to historical records, Zamindar Kalishankar Ray established the feudal system in Narail in 1791. The zamindari was later divided among his two sons Ram Narayan Ray and Joy Narayan Ray.

Photo: Partha Chakrabortty/Star

With the abolition of zamindari system in 1950, many of their grand establishments were abandoned. While some structures have completely disappeared due to neglect, a few still stand as key heritage sites, including the Hathbaria Palace, Hathbaria Temple and the Nam Ghat, attracting visitors and historians alike.

However, all these remaining structures are in dire need of urgent conservation effort.

Visitors and locals expressed concerns about the condition of these historic sites, and urged authorities concerned for steps towards their preservation.

Photo: Partha Chakrabortty/Star

People from Narail and across the country come to visit these sites regularly.

Apu Karmakar, a resident of Bagerhat's Kachua upazila who came to visit the Hathbaria Zamindar Palace, said, "I have heard a lot about the history of the zamindars here, but there is not much left from that time to see anymore, except this palace, a temple, and the ghat on the river bank."

Pabitra Das, a visitor to Nam Ghat, remarked, "Of the many structures built by the zamindars, very few remain today. There is an old stone temple nearby, but among all the structures, this ghat is the only one still worth seeing."

Photo: Partha Chakrabortty/Star

"If preserved, these sites will allow future generations to witness history firsthand," said Tama Hawlader, another visitor.

Echoing her, Seema Tarafdar, a visitor from Khulna, called upon the authorities concerned for preserving the sites to attract more tourists to Narail.

Sharmin Akter Jahan, deputy commissioner of Narail district, acknowledged the historical importance of these structures and the need for their conservation.

"For the significant heritage sites, particularly old temples like the Hathbaria Temple, we have engaged with the Department of Archaeology to ensure their proper preservation," she said.

"We are committed to protecting these heritage sites while ensuring that any restoration adheres to proper archaeological methods. For instance, during any repair or conservation efforts, we must avoid using modern materials such as cement that could damage their originality," she added.