British-era stable razed in Pindi’s legal district

Multi-storey building to replace 159-year-old structure

RAWALPINDI:

The army horse stable, dating back to 1864, located on the corner in Rawalpindi’s Old Kutchery district has been completely demolished by the administration to make for a multi-storey building for young lawyers.

The 159-year-old structure dates back to the British era, and the stable was part of the military barracks in the garrison city.

For the last seven decades or so, with horses no longer trotting on the roads and routes of the city, it became a refuge of stamp vendors, providing much-needed service to court visitors and lawyers.

The stables were initially spread over 20 marlas but had been reduced to a quarter of its length over the years as the city administrators brought parts of it down.

Now, this area will be home to a four-storey structure. The construction was underway and was scheduled for completion in the next four months.

The stamp sellers are slated to get shops on the ground floor. The next three floors will have offices of lawyers. These chambers will be allotted to youngsters joining the legal profession, including women.

During the British rule in the Subcontinent, Rawalpindi had the status of a cantonment. It was home to ancient buildings including courts, the British Army mess and military barracks, offices, stables, and a bazaar.

The military barracks and offices were abolished and the Kutchery district was formed in 1898. This old court district is still there.

The British Army's old mess, built in 1866, was also demolished and converted into a barrister's chamber in 2022. Initially, this mess was turned into a canteen.

Meanwhile, a judicial complex was built on a part of the old central jail adjacent to Jinnah Park during the presidency of Pervez Musharraf. There are 20 courts in the area where the British-era courts stood.

Only five older buildings remain in this area following the demolition of the stables.

They include the old settlement offices, court record rooms, courts and various administrative offices.

 

Published in The Express Tribune, June 27^th, 2023.