Historic cinema demolished

The Rawalpindi Municipal Corporation (RMC) demolished the historic Rose Cinema building located next to the main gate of Rawalpindi Teaching Hospital at Fawara Chowk, Raja Bazaar.

The operation followed the expiration of the lease and the end of a court-issued stay order.

The site will now be used to construct a new emergency block for the hospital, which will also include a helipad for air ambulances.

The one-kanal and eight-marla plot was originally leased about 60 years ago for the construction of Rose Cinema, which showcased several popular films over the decades.

Following the lease's expiry, the lessee obtained a stay order to retain possession. With the court's injunction now lifted, the municipal corporation carried out the demolition using heavy machinery.

The operation was supervised by Chief Municipal Officer Imran Ali, Assistant Commissioner City Dr Iman Zafar, ADC (Revenue), and Regulation Superintendent Masood Mughal.

The overnight operation concluded by midday Sunday.

Chief Officer Imran Ali confirmed that the corporation has regained possession of the plot, now worth millions of rupees.

The final decision regarding the plot's use will be made by Rawalpindi Commissioner Engineer Aamir Khattak. However, officials suggest it will likely be incorporated into the hospital.

Medical Superintendent of Rawalpindi Teaching Hospital, Dr Ikramullah Khan Niazi, confirmed that the Punjab government had already approved the construction of a new emergency block on the site.

Due to the previous stay order, the project was delayed. The new emergency block will feature a basement, ground floor, first floor, and a rooftop helipad.

The expanded facility is expected to address the growing space constraints and improve patient care.

Dr Niazi added that he would soon meet with the Commissioner and local administration to formally request the transfer of the land for hospital use.