Eight months after the demolition of the two main entrance gates and security infrastructure at the historic 130-year-old Rawalpindi District Courts for the construction of the Kachehry Underpass project, the promised rebuilding work has yet to begin, raising serious security and welfare concerns.
Demolition and Unfulfilled Promises
The main entrance gates, police guard rooms and the dedicated women's screening area were demolished on November 3, 2025, as part of the underpass project. However, despite the passage of eight months, the facilities have not been reconstructed. According to officials and lawyers, responsibility for rebuilding the entrance gates formed part of the project committee's obligations.
Security Risks at the Court Complex
In their absence, the court complex now remains accessible through an open area, allowing unrestricted entry without proper security screening and creating what they describe as a significant security risk. The original iron main gate, removed during construction, has reportedly been left exposed to the elements and has begun to rust.
Before the demolition, security checkpoints were located at both the Kachehry Chowk entrance and the gate opposite Jinnah Park, while a separate enclosed area had been designated for the screening of female visitors.
Hardship for Police Personnel
Police personnel deployed at the court complex say they have been forced to construct makeshift shelters using wooden shuttering boards to protect themselves from the intense summer heat. The temporary structures are unstable and have reportedly collapsed on several occasions during strong winds, with the metal roofing also becoming dangerously hot under direct sunlight.
Officers remain on duty from 7am to 5pm in extreme temperatures without fans, cooling facilities or an official supply of drinking water. Several personnel have reportedly suffered nosebleeds and heat-related illnesses while on duty. They say they arrange drinking water at their own expense.
Calls for Immediate Action
Police officials and members of the legal fraternity have urged the authorities to construct permanent, well-ventilated guard rooms immediately, restore the women's security screening facility and rebuild the main entrance gates to improve both security and working conditions.
President of the Rawalpindi District Bar Association, Tariq Mahmood Sajid Awan, said the matter had been raised with the police, judicial authorities, the High Court administration and the government. He expressed hope that an early decision would be taken to construct modern entrance gates, covered guard rooms and proper security screening facilities in line with contemporary security standards.
