KARACHI:
Nestled near the current Kanganpur Police Station lies a lesser-known gem of history: an old police picket, built during the British colonial period, but rooted in much older traditions. This structure stands today as a silent witness to centuries of change — from Mughal leisure garden to British law post, revealing layers of our past. Originally known as ‘Rani Bagh Chowki’, this picket sits on the grounds of what was once a Mughal-era Rani Bagh fort, constructed in the 1600s. Historical records show that this garden-fort was built during Emperor Shah Jahan’s reign, likely as a retreat for the ruling family of Kasur and later by Maharaja Ranjit Singh himself. When the British took control in the 19th century, they repurposed the Rani Bagh grounds as a local police post. The sturdy walls and watchtowers — originally meant for royal protection — now served colonial law enforcement.
For decades, the structure functioned as a chowki where patrolling officers were based, keeping order in Kanganpur and its surrounding villages. Though no longer in active use, the old chowki remains intact. Many of its original features — arched gateways, guard turrets and thick brick walls — are still visible, offering a glimpse of architectural resilience across eras. In a 2021 effort to promote local heritage, residents and heritage enthusiasts highlighted the chowki’s value. The site was featured in a local blog and community website dedicated to Kanganpur’s history, urging authorities to preserve it as a cultural landmark.
Maria Mubarik
Kanganpur, District Kasur
