THE destruction of the historic Baradari at Rasool Nagar, situated on the left bank of the River Chenab in Wazirabad district, should be treated as a matter of serious public concern, and not as another routine case of official negligence. The historic site, associated with the era of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and which also happened to be a battlefield between the Sikhs and the British, represents a rather significant chapter in the history of Punjab.

Instead ofgettingprotected,conserved and developed as a heritage and tourism site, it is reportedly being allowed to fall victim to land encroachment, environmental destruction and the activities of influential land mafias.

The cutting down of the historic mango orchard surroundingthe Baradariand the alleged encroachment upon its land are particularly alarming. A historical monument does not exist in isolation. Its gardens,landscape,surroundings and original environment are also part of its historical identity. Destroying the garden and occupying the surrounding land is, therefore,nolessthan destroyingthe monument itself.

This raises disturbing questions. Where are the departments responsible for archaeology, heritage, culture, forests and revenue? Who permitted the cutting of mature trees? Who allowed the encroachment of land associated with a historical site? Was any action taken against those responsible, or are the authorities simply watching the gradual disappearance of an important part of Punjab`s heritage? Heritage destruction must be recognised as a form of violence against history and collective memory. Once a historical building, garden or cultural landscape is destroyed, no government announcement, plaque or reconstruction can restore its original authenticity. The government must immediately order a high-level and independent inquiry into the matter. The entire area should be surveyed, its original boundaries officially demarcated, illegal encroachments removed, and the property brought under effective heritage protection.

Those responsible for cutting the historic mango trees, damaging the cultural landscape or occupying public land must be identified and prosecuted without regard to their influence or connections.

MubasherMir Karachi