By Ghani Ur Rehman
There is an old tale about a king who once asked his minister how one could easily determine whether a city was progressing or declining. The minister replied, “Your Majesty, do not judge a city by its towering buildings, bustling markets, or magnificent palaces. Instead, observe whether an ordinary citizen can walk freely, safely, and with dignity. If pedestrians have proper pathways, markets are clean, and the rule of law prevails equally for all, the city is on the path to progress. But if sidewalks disappear, roads become obstructed, and everyone follows their own rules, then decline has already begun.”
This story comes to mind whenever one walks through the historic streets and marketplaces of Peshawar. It seems as though the city’s beauty and orderly development have lost their case, while the monster of encroachments continues to grow stronger with each passing day.
Peshawar, one of the oldest living cities in South Asia, is far more than a collection of buildings and roads. It is a living symbol of history, culture, civilization, and tradition. The legendary Qissa Khwani Bazaar, the iconic Ghanta Ghar, the commercial vibrancy of Karim Pura, the historical significance of Hashtnagri, and the bustling business activities of Jhanda Bazaar once represented the true identity of this ancient city. Unfortunately, today many of these landmarks are increasingly associated with encroachments, traffic congestion, poor sanitation, and urban disorder.
Citizens often ask a simple but important question: Why has the situation deteriorated to this extent? Are government institutions and municipal authorities unable to fulfill their responsibilities? Is it really so difficult to eliminate encroachments and improve civic management?
While these questions are valid, the answers are not confined to government offices alone. They are also deeply rooted in our collective attitudes and behavior as a society.
Anyone visiting Qissa Khwani Bazaar, Dalgaran, Peepal Mandi, Ghanta Ghar, Nigran Bazaar, Karim Pura, Chowk Shadi Pir, Jhanda Bazaar, or Hashtnagri can clearly observe that sidewalks are no longer reserved for pedestrians. Merchandise spills out from shops onto public pathways, handcarts occupy walking spaces, and illegal parking further narrows already congested roads. The very sidewalks built to protect pedestrians now seem to be in need of protection themselves.
In reality, encroachments are not merely an issue of occupying physical space. They represent an infringement upon public rights. When a shopkeeper extends beyond his legal limits, he effectively deprives hundreds of citizens of their right to move freely. When unauthorized structures block public spaces, the consequences are borne by society as a whole.
It is easy to place all responsibility on government institutions and municipal authorities. However, an equally important question must be asked: Are citizens fulfilling their own civic responsibilities? Do we respect laws and regulations? Do we contribute to cleanliness and public order? If the answer is no, then we too are part of the problem.
There is no denying that district administrations and municipal agencies bear the primary responsibility for maintaining urban order. Their actions against encroachments must be consistent and sustained rather than limited to occasional, highly publicized operations. A comprehensive and long-term strategy is required—one that remains free from political interference, favoritism, and external pressure.
The city’s sanitation challenges are equally alarming. In many marketplaces, piles of garbage, clogged drains, and unpleasant odors have become common sights, posing risks to public health and diminishing the city’s appeal. Across the world, historic and tourist destinations are maintained through strict cleanliness standards and urban management policies. Yet in a city as historically significant as Peshawar, sanitation often remains a serious concern.
The need of the hour is a coordinated effort to restore sidewalks, remove encroachments, modernize marketplaces, develop proper parking facilities, and promote respect for civic laws. Government action alone will not be sufficient. Traders, citizens, civil society organizations, and the media must all play an active role in this collective struggle.
Peshawar’s beauty is not an illusion or a nostalgic dream. It is a reality that millions witnessed in the past. Even today, with sincere intentions, effective planning, and strong implementation, this historic city can regain its lost charm and restore its original identity.
It is worth remembering that the true measure of a city’s progress is not the height of its buildings but the safety of its sidewalks, the cleanliness of its markets, and the strength of the rule of law. When the sidewalks return to the people, perhaps Peshawar’s lost beauty will return as well.
