WWI memorial not demolished, relocated for preservation, CDA clarifies

ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) on Thursday clarified that the World War I memorial at Rehara village was being relocated to a safer and more publicly accessible site, stressing that the action is preservation through relocation, not demolition.

In a statement, the CDA said the monument was carefully dismantled under conservation protocol, with all original bricks and materials preserved to enable precise reconstruction. The authority said that the relocation ensures the dignified upkeep, protection, and long-term maintenance of the site, noting that the monument had deteriorated at its previous location.

The CDA further clarified that the monument is not on the Archaeology Department’s notified heritage inventory, but the department was consulted, and all due process was followed. Legal consent was also obtained from the heir of Sub Ghulam Ali, the war hero commemorated by the memorial, with his great-grandson providing an affidavit and no-objection certificate before any handling took place.

With CDA oversight, the monument will be re-erected along the Northern Bypass roundabout near Rehara village, in a location that offers better public access and respect. The authority highlighted that relocation of heritage structures due to development needs is a recognised global practice, citing examples such as the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse in the USA, Marble Arch in London, and the reconstruction of London Bridge abroad.

The CDA stressed that the historical tribute remains fully intact, continuing to honour Sub Ghulam Ali’s gallantry in World War I and his Military Cross. It called claims of “demolition” factually incorrect, describing the action as responsible conservation and heritage protection.

The authority also urged media outlets to verify facts before publishing, saying that running sensational or misleading claims without due diligence is irresponsible journalism and could be treated as deliberate misinformation or fake news.