BAHAWALPUR: The Buildings Department has declared Bahawalpur Municipal Corporation’s (MC’s) 18th-century building on Stadium Road near Borstal Jail dangerous.

According to MC officials, the building, constructed around the 18th century, occupies 29 kanals and five marlas. Its constructed portion includes rooms and a front veranda. Over the years, millions have been spent on repairs and renovations. However, in the latest survey conducted by the buildings department for 2023-24, it has once again been declared unsafe for official use. It poses a risk to the MC staff working there.

Despite repeated warnings in the previous years, the Local Government Department did not undertake repairs and renovations to ensure the safety of staff.

Officials have sent a formal request to the Punjab Intermediate Cities Improvement Investment Programme director, seeking funds for constructing a new building in its place.

The letter states that recent rains have caused further damage to the already dilapidated structure, requiring immediate attention.

Published in Dawn, September 24th, 2024