Rashid Laghari
Hyderabad was known as ‘Neeron Kot,’ before the British arrived in India.
The historical significance of its buildings was highlighted by experts interviewed by JBConnects.
“Neeron Kot was an architectural beauty in the era of the Kalhoros and the Mirs
(1735-1750),” says Prof. Yaqoob Soomro.
Writer and broadcaster, Naseer Mirza believes the fact that the Indus River flows parallel to Hyderabad gives it great significance.
He attributes the creation of landmarks like Pucca Qila and Kaccha Qila to the vision of the Kalhoro era.
Researcher Ishrat Khan notes that old structures like Sindh University, Sessions Court, Noor Mohammed High School, and Government College distinguish Hyderabad.
These academics were unanimous however in pointing out that these historic structures face neglect amid modern developments.
Naseer Mirza attributes the neglect to absence of administrative priorities.
The experts call on the federal and provincial governments to enact legislation to
preserve Hyderabad’s cultural heritage.
Yaqoob Soomro calls upon the government of Sindh and Pakistan to enact legislation for the preservation of Hyderabad’s cultural heritage.
The experts note that while the world emphasizes preservation of global heritage, Pakistan too must preserve its architectural past from falling into decay.