Mardan Railway Station, a British-era building linked to the region’s transport history and cultural identity, has become the focus of renewed public concern after reports of possible leasing of railway property near the station.

The station is considered an important part of Mardan’s historic landscape. For decades, it served not only as a transport point but also as a public space connected to local memory, architecture and the city’s colonial-era railway heritage.

Historic railway buildings are valued not only for their age but also for their design, public attachment and role in preserving local identity. Pakistan Railways’ Railway Works Handbook of 1928 and Ways and Works Manual of 1969 are cited by heritage advocates as documents that stress the need to protect the original structure and architectural character of railway buildings.

Concerns have grown over the possibility that commercial activity, shops or new structures could be allowed in front of the station building. Local heritage supporters say such development may block the historic façade, weaken the station’s original character and create difficulties for future restoration work.

A similar issue emerged a few years ago when an attempt was reportedly made to shift the historic platform shelter of Mardan Railway Station to Faisalabad. The plan was later dropped after opposition from local residents, social activists and people interested in preserving the city’s history.

The episode showed that many residents of Mardan see the railway station as more than unused public property. For them, it remains part of the city’s shared heritage.

In several countries, old railway stations are preserved as cultural and tourism sites while still being used for public engagement. Heritage experts argue that such buildings can generate long-term public value if restored and maintained, rather than being treated only as short-term commercial assets.

Mardan Railway Station could also regain practical importance if railway services are restored in the future. In that case, the historic building may once again serve thousands of passengers and become a centre of public movement in the city.

Local voices have urged the Government of Pakistan, Pakistan Railways, the Department of Archaeology and elected representatives to ensure that any decision regarding railway property does not damage the station’s heritage value.

They say leasing plans should be reviewed in a way that protects the station’s historic view, original structure and future restoration potential.

Once a historic building loses its character, it cannot easily be recovered. For Mardan, preserving the railway station means protecting a visible part of the city’s history and passing that inheritance to future generations.

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