Call for preserving ‘Haveli Sujan Singh’

Minister says building should be officially declared heritage site

RAWALPINDI:

Provincial Minister for Primary and Secondary Healthcare and Population Dr Jamal Nasir reiterated the dire need to preserve the historic Haveli Sujan Singh by officially declaring it as a national heritage site.

The minister visited Haveli Sujan Singh on Thursday.

While addressing its prolonged neglect, he highlighted the imminent measures aimed at its preservation. Additionally, proposals for establishing a museum, an art and craft gallery, and a food court within the premises of Haveli Sujan Singh are set to materialise, he added.

Emphasising a sense of urgency, he conveyed that restoration and renovation initiatives for the Haveli and its associated projects would be executed swiftly. He expressed confidence that tasks left unfinished for years would now be accomplished within a matter of days.

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Rawalpindi Commissioner Liaquat Ali Chatha, Director Heritage Sardar Salman and Director Development Nazia Parveen Sundhan were also present on this occasion. Dr Jamal Nasir along with Commissioner Liaqat Ali Chatha visited and inspected the historical building in detail.

Jamal Nasir further highlighted the potential of Haveli Sujan Singh as a prime catalyst for religious tourism, emphasising plans to conserve the surrounding ancient buildings and temples. He announced an immediate implementation of one-way traffic regulations for Raja Bazaar, Sarafa Bazaar, and Bhabra Bazaar.

Furthermore, envisioning a pedestrian-friendly future, he outlined intentions to restrict access to Bhabra Bazaar exclusively for pedestrians, completely prohibiting motorcycles and vehicles from entering the area. He also announced the imminent commencement of the expansion of the Fawara Chowk parking plaza.

He further disclosed ongoing evaluations for a new parking plaza near Bhabra Bazaar, aiming to accommodate the influx of tourists anticipated at Haveli Sujan Singh in the future.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 1^st, 2023.