The district administration in Attock, Punjab has restored the century-old Raees Khana building and converted it into a commercial and cultural center, bringing a historic structure back into active public use.
Built in 1908 by the feudal elite of Fatehjang in tribute to Queen Victoria, Raees Khana had long been considered one of the city’s notable colonial-era landmarks. Over time, especially after Partition, the building fell into decline and later became associated with neglect and illegal activity.
Officials said the site has now been revived at an estimated cost of Rs. 38 million. Spread over around 3.2 canals in central Attock, the restored complex now includes 27 commercial outlets, a filtration plant, and a gazebo for visitors.
According to the administration, the commercial units attracted strong interest during auction, with shops fetching nearly three times the reserve price.
Assistant Commissioner Muhammad Arif Qureshi said the project also includes dedicated space for women entrepreneurs, along with facilities such as separate washrooms and a secure environment.
Deputy Director Development Zameer Janjua said the restoration focused heavily on preserving the building’s original character. He said the same Victorian architectural style was used during reconstruction, while the site had remained in a ruined condition for decades and had turned into a hub for drug addicts.
Deputy Commissioner Rao Atif Raza said the project combines heritage restoration with modern public utility. As part of the redevelopment, a Campbellpur Tea House has been established inside the complex, inspired by the traditional tea house model and developed in collaboration with the Pakistan Academy of Letters.
Officials said the tea house has been designed as a literary and cultural space featuring paintings, artifacts, and books related to Attock’s history.
The restored complex also includes the city’s first food street and a rooftop dining area, adding a new public attraction for residents and visitors.
shall visit, thanks govt of punjab
The former colonies of Western imperial powers continue to experience challenges stemming from the enduring influence of feudal elites in Asia and Africa. In Pakistan, for instance, individuals who demonstrated loyalty to the British were granted land, and these loyalists reportedly perpetuate discrimination against the peasantry. This discrimination allegedly manifests as limited access to education, adequate healthcare, and other fundamental necessities, thereby hindering social mobility. Furthermore, opposition to these practices is said to be met with severe repercussions, including banishment, sexual assault, or even death, with perpetrators often acting with impunity. This systemic and unpunished violence is reported to persist to the present day.
What kind of restoration is this, the building does not look like a period architecture anymore. One had to be a Dubai appreciative numb to do this kind of job.