Govt moves to save Heritage Trail in Peshawar

PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government on Friday relocated the fish market from Ghanta Ghar Bazaar to GT Road in Chughalpura to protect the Heritage Trail and adjacent food street.

Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur issued the special instructions to transfer the fish market to a new location, citing concerns over the damage being caused to the historic area, especially the 124-year-old Cunningham Clock Tower or Ghanta Ghar monument.

Peshawar Division Commissioner Riaz Khan Mehsud was tasked with handling the project.He visited Ghanta Ghar and instructed the relevant officials to seal all fish shops and shift the business to the new location.

Despite initial resistance from fish market owners, the relocation process was completed successfully, with alternative shops allocated to them in Chughalpura village on GT Road.The move is aimed at maintaining the beauty and integrity of the Ghanta Ghar Heritage Trail and adjacent food street, which has been a significant cultural and tourist attraction in the city.

“Preserving the beauty and integrity of the Ghanta Ghar Heritage Trail and the adjacent food street is paramount,” stated the commissioner while speaking on the occasion.These sites represent a significant cultural and tourist attraction for Peshawar, and this action ensures their continued vibrancy, he added.

The commissioner appointed focal persons, including Assistant Commissioner Peshawar City and Director East Capital Metropolitan, Rahman Khattak, to ensure the maintenance and upkeep of the Heritage Trail and food street.Daily reports were sought to prevent further damage to the historic trail and ensure the success of the relocation initiative.