RAHIM YAR KHAN: The centuries-old Badli Sharif presents a picture of neglect due to indifference of the district administration and archaeology department.

Nineteen kilometres towards northwest of Rahim Yar Khan, the area was known as a famous river port where trade items were delivered by small ships. Its foundation was laid almost 400 years ago according to the residents.

The town was built at the Indus bank and was originally named Dabli but when the river changed its course, people began to call it ‘Badli’. It has ancient building structures but most of them are in a state of disrepair.

Locals claim they have found rare coins and pots during construction of houses. The old temple is given on rent by the Evacuee Trust Property Board to a family. The well is no more in use.

The district coordination officer formed a heritage society for the preservation of historical sites but there is no practical work in this direction so far.

Residents have time and again demanded that the authorities save the civilisation the town was once known for.

Historians record different communities lived in the town but the Hindus captured it and built houses, a large temple and a deep well. Before the partition the trade was in the hands of the Hindus who would give loans to the Muslims on interest and occupy agricultural lands of the defaulters.

Published in Dawn, June 11th, 2014