PESHAWAR: Advisor to Chief Minister on Culture, Tourism, Archeology and Museums Zahid Chanzeb on Saturday inspected the renovation work at the historic Mahabat Khan Mosque and stressed the need for making it sustainable.
The renovation and restoration work was being done at a cost of Rs152 million under the Directorate of Archeology. Maulana Muhammad Tayyab Qureshi, prominent religious scholar and khateeb, welcomed the advisor on arrival at the mosque. The advisor met with the worshippers and inquired from them about the renovation work going on in the mosque. Zahid Chanzeb, who is also an architect, pointed out several important aspects for making the renovation work more sustainable and for the foundations strength of the mosque.
He said that the mosque was built almost four centuries ago and strengthening its arches and foundations should be top priority rather than renovation works. “More funds would be provided if required for this purpose because it is indispensable for the life and safety of 10,000 worshipers in the mosque,” he added.
He also directed to improve the sound system of the mosque. However, the Khateeb and worshippers told him that the quality of the current scheme under the direct supervision of Archeology Directorate is progressing in a satisfactory manner compared to the previous schemes while Dr Abdul Samad’s close liaison was specially appreciated on this occasion.
The advisor expressed satisfaction over the demolition of 42 shops and markets around the mosque due to which the boundaries and exterior features of this historic mosque were clearly visible for the first time now.
The architect executing the project informed the advisor that in addition to revival of the original Mughal beauty and elegance of the interiors of the mosque, sound proof materials and chemicals were also being used to eliminate the echo generated in the inner hall. While in the original construction, the air circulation system inside the hall is also being restored, due to which the moisture in the walls will also be eliminated. Maulana Muhammad Tayyab Qureshi also requested the advisor that one or two-storey strong and ventilated roof sheds should be constructed in the wide yard of the mosque in which hundreds of thousands of more worshipers can offer prayers in peace within the limits of the mosque.