The demolition of the historic Mahafezkhana in Guwahati has sparked a wave of outrage among local residents, with many expressing concerns over the government’s handling of the city’s heritage preservation. The Mahafezkhana, an iconic structure situated on the banks of the Brahmaputra, has stood as a symbol of the region’s history and culture for over a century. However, the building was recently razed as part of the Brahmaputra riverfront beautification project initiated by the Guwahati Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA). This move has sparked debates over the preservation of historical sites versus urban development.
The structure, which was part of Assam’s architectural legacy, has been the subject of discussions for years. Although there is no exact record of when it was built, many believe it was constructed after 1855. The Mahafezkhana served as a record room with an 86ft by 77ft area that housed crucial documents, including land records, maps, and administrative orders. This structure had withstood significant challenges over the years, including surviving the 1897 earthquake with its thick, 20-inch walls. Its historical importance made it one of the few buildings in Guwahati that was thought to hold immense cultural and archival value.
Despite its historical significance, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma defended the demolition of the Mahafezkhana. According to Sarma, the structure represented a “symbol of gulami,” or slavery, and was not an archaeological site worth preserving. His comments, however, have only fueled public anger, with many accusing the government of erasing a part of the city’s heritage in the name of development. Sarma’s position has led to divided opinions, with some agreeing with the idea of removing colonial symbols, while others see it as a disregard for Guwahati’s rich history.
The demolition was carried out as part of the GMDA’s plan to develop the Brahmaputra riverfront, aiming to create a modern, tourist-friendly environment along the river. While riverfront beautification projects are common in cities worldwide, the destruction of heritage sites to accommodate such developments raises important questions about the balance between modernization and preservation. Many residents argue that the Mahafezkhana could have been incorporated into the riverfront project as a heritage site, possibly transforming it into a museum or cultural center to celebrate Guwahati’s history.
Citizens took to social media platforms to express their frustration, calling for a rethinking of the government’s approach to heritage preservation. They have questioned why the Mahafezkhana, which had survived over a century, was demolished when it could have been preserved and integrated into the city’s urban development plans. The loss of such a building feels like a missed opportunity to showcase the history and culture of Guwahati to future generations.
The demolition also sparked a broader conversation about the importance of protecting historical landmarks. While urban development and modernization are essential for cities to grow, many argue that historical buildings can coexist with modern structures. Cities across the world have found ways to preserve their heritage while developing their infrastructure. In Guwahati’s case, it seems that the removal of Mahafezkhana could have been avoided by incorporating it into the riverfront project, preserving its significance while still allowing for modernization.
As the controversy continues to unfold, the future of Guwahati’s heritage sites remains uncertain. While Chief Minister Sarma may view the Mahafezkhana as a colonial relic, many locals view it as a testament to the city’s resilience and history. The debate over this demolition underscores the tension between progress and preservation, and it remains to be seen whether the city will adopt a more balanced approach to heritage conservation in the future.
Ultimately, the demolition of the Mahafezkhana raises important questions about the role of history in shaping the present and future of a city. While change is necessary, preserving the legacy of the past can serve as a foundation for a city’s identity and growth. Guwahati’s residents hope that the city will find a way to honor its past while moving forward into a modern future.
