(Dawn: Sunday, Dec 11, 1999)
REPORTS in a section of the press have drawn attention to the architectural decay suffered by the historic town of Bhera in the Sargodha district of Punjab owing to lack of conservation and unchecked encroachments. The town has lost two of its eight gates and its ramparts or boundary wall. Wood carvings on the town’s houses are gradually being obliterated and it may have its entire character changed. Records mention Bhera as the best-looking town in the Sargodha district built of brick. There still are beautiful havelis with impressive ‘jharokas’ and balconies, all this may soon disappear unless earnest attempts are made to preserve them.
Bhera shares this doleful fate with many other historic towns and places in Pakistan which are recognized for their historic or outstanding architectural value. Many ancient towns are still enclosed by massive walls which encapsulate centuries of history and culture and which are now threatened by creeping urbanization. In the case of Bhera, the owners of havelis, which traditionally had lodged visitors to the town, are dismantling them and selling off the rubble as building material, indicating the stresses of urban growth and commercialism. Awareness about protection is non-existent and commitment to conservation is lacking. The ranks of artisans and craftsmen who could keep old buildings in order too are dwindling because no one recognizes their worth.
Restoring historical towns and buildings is vital to maintaining the region’s cultural personality and distinctiveness so that some of the remnants of our romantic past do not disappear from the scene altogether. Preservation can also help to promote tourism. For meaningful conservation, it is necessary to understand the thrust and salient characteristics of urban development in their proper environmental context. In response to modern-day pressures, the rehabilitation approach in many countries is changing. Instead of isolated actions, work on preserving historic landmarks and other objects of cultural importance is seen as part of efforts to improve the wider urban scene. The government should seek to utilize proper professional expertise and allocate adequate funds to undertake a conservation drive throughout the country.