Value-risk Assessment and Sustainability Status of Selected Built Heritage Sites in Paschim Medinipur District, West Bengal, India

Abstract

Cultural and historical heritage sites strengthen community identity and safeguard collective memory over time. However, these valuable heritage resources are increasingly at risk due to environmental degradation in many lower-middle income countries. Against this background, this study aimed to conduct an integrated evaluation of ten selected built heritage sites of Paschim Medinipur district in the Indian state of West Bengal using a mixed-methods approach. The findings reveal that while most sites possess high heritage value, the majority fall within the moderate-to-high degradation risk categories, with a few requiring urgent interventions. A positive correlation was found between locational advantage and heritage value, while degradation risk showed a strong negative relationship with sustainability. Cluster-based typologies and heritage sustainability scores suggest that few sites are ready for heritage tourism development, whereas others need phased restoration, protective zoning and interpretive infrastructure. The study proposes a replicable model for semi-urban heritage management, balancing cultural preservation with sustainable tourism.