Urbanisation poses threat to monuments in Ferozepur

Ferozepur, February 9

The imprints of legacy in this historic town are fast diminishing due to rapid and unplanned urbanisation. In addition, the state government has also failed to devise any plan for the preservation of the town.

In the last seven decades, the only feat of the district administration has been in securing the ‘protected monument’ status for Bhagat Singh’s hideout in Turi Bazaar in the city. However, despite the status, no steps have been initiated till date to develop it further despite the High Court’s plea.

Old timers are appalled to see the present condition of the town, which was once a thriving trade centre and city of prosperity, with several places of historical and architectural importance. A series of encroachments on its heritage and the metaphorical obliteration of its architectural marvel has left the city in a deplorable shape. Tourism sector has been hit for the last several years, worsening the economic condition.

“It was here that a walled city of 10 gates existed. Like other such structures, the gates were christened after the name of the destination they led to,” said Madan Lal Tiwari, a former teacher. — OC