The Historic Commissioner’s House in Sukkur: A Colonial Architectural Gem

Introduction

Commissioner’s House, Circuit House

The Commissioner’s House in Sukkur, Pakistan, is a remarkable piece of history that dates back nearly a century. Originally constructed in 1926-27 as Bungalow No. 2 for the Superintendent Engineer of the Lloyd Barrage (now Sukkur Barrage), this colonial-era building has served multiple roles over the decades. From housing Sir Arnold Musto until May 1932 to becoming an inspection bungalow, and finally transforming into the Commissioner’s residence in 1974, its journey reflects Sukkur’s evolution. This article delves into its history, architecture, and why it deserves recognition as a heritage site.

A Glimpse into History

Commissioner’s House, Sukkur

The Commissioner’s House was built during the construction of the Sukkur Barrage, a monumental irrigation project that transformed agriculture in Sindh. Initially, it was the residence of Sir Arnold Musto, the Superintendent Engineer overseeing the barrage’s development, from 1926 to May 1932. After his tenure, the bungalow was repurposed as an inspection bungalow for visiting officials. In 1974, it was designated as the official residence of the Commissioner of Sukkur, a role it continues to fulfill today. This rich history ties the building to both colonial engineering feats and Pakistan’s administrative past.

Architectural Features: A Colonial Masterpiece

Designed in the colonial architectural style, the Commissioner’s House is a two-story structure featuring girder tiers, thick walls, high ceilings, and a robust roof. Its windows on all sides ensure excellent ventilation, making it well-suited to Sukkur’s hot climate. The thick walls provide natural insulation, a design choice that surpasses many modern RCC (Reinforced Cement Concrete) buildings in efficiency. Surrounded by a garden, the building combines practicality with elegance, showcasing the ingenuity of colonial-era architecture in Pakistan.

Why It Should Be a Heritage Site

The Commissioner’s House is more than just a residence it’s a symbol of Sukkur’s historical and cultural heritage. Its connection to the Sukkur Barrage, its colonial design, and its century-long legacy make it a valuable asset. Declaring it a heritage site would protect it from neglect and promote tourism, allowing visitors to explore its architectural beauty and historical significance. Preserving such landmarks ensures that future generations can connect with Pakistan’s past.

Conclusion

From its origins as a superintendent engineer’s bungalow to its current status as the Commissioner’s House, this building stands as a testament to Sukkur’s history and architectural brilliance. Its colonial design, climate-friendly features, and historical importance make it a gem worth preserving. Granting it heritage status would honor its legacy and highlight Sukkur’s role in Pakistan’s story.

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References and Books

1. "Sukkur: Nostalgia of Things Past" by Momin Bullo
   • Description: This book explores the history of Sukkur, including the construction of the Commissioner's House as part of the Lloyd Barrage project. It details its initial use by Sir Arnold Musto, the chief architect of the barrage, and its later role as the Commissioner's residence.
   • Relevance: Offers specific insights into the historical significance of the Commissioner's House in Sukkur.
2. "Pakistani Architecture"
   • Description: A broader examination of architectural styles in Pakistan, including colonial-era buildings. It provides context for the Commissioner's House, noted for its colonial design with features like girder tiers, thick walls, and high ceilings.
   • Relevance: Helps situate the building within Pakistan's architectural history.
3. "Colonial Architecture in Pakistan"
   • Description: This book focuses on colonial architectural heritage in Pakistan, with references to structures in Sindh province, such as the Commissioner's House.
   • Relevance: Provides architectural and historical context for colonial colonial buildings like the Commissioner's House.
4. "A Study of Significant Historic Buildings in Lahore Leading Towards the Formulation of a National Conservation Policy for Pakistan" by Muhammad
   • Description: An academic work focused on Lahore’s historic buildings, but it discusses preservation challenges relevant to colonial-era structures across Pakistan, including those in Sukkur.
   • Relevance: Offers a framework for understanding the heritage value and preservation needs of the Commissioner's House.
5. "Pakistan's Architectural Heritage" by Zeeshan Bukhari
   • Description: An article covering Pakistan’s architectural history, including colonial influences, providing additional context for the Commissioner's House.
   • Relevance: Connects the building to the broader narrative of Pakistan’s architectural legacy.

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Links to Reliable Websites

1. Heritage Foundation of Pakistan
   • Description: A site dedicated to heritage preservation in Pakistan, including information on colonial-era buildings and the Sindh Cultural Heritage (Preservation) Act, which protects sites like the Commissioner's House.
   • Relevance: Provides details on legal protections and preservation efforts.
2. UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Pakistan
   • Description: Lists Pakistan’s World Heritage Sites and tentative candidates, offering context for heritage preservation efforts that could apply to the Commissioner's House.
   • Relevance: Highlights Pakistan’s commitment to preserving its historical sites.
3. Pakistan's Crumbling Architectural Heritage
   • Description: A Reuters article on the state of colonial-era buildings in Karachi, addressing preservation challenges relevant to Sukkur’s Commissioner's House.
   • Relevance: Discusses broader issues of neglect affecting similar structures.
4. List of Cultural Heritage Sites in Karachi
   • Description: A Wikipedia page listing protected heritage sites in Sindh province, providing insight into how the Commissioner's House fits into this category.
   • Relevance: Offers a regional perspective on heritage site classification.
5. Colonial Architecture of Pakistan
   • Description: An article exploring colonial architecture across Pakistan, with examples that parallel the style of the Commissioner's House.
   • Relevance: Enhances understanding of the building’s architectural significance.

Additional Resources

• Project Gutenberg
  • Description: A digital library offering free access to historical texts, potentially including works on colonial architecture or Sindh’s history.
  • Relevance: Useful for finding supplementary historical documents or maps.
• National Heritage and Culture Division, Pakistan
• Description: The official government site for Pakistan’s heritage policies, which may include information on the Commissioner's House.
• Relevance: Provides authoritative updates on preservation status.
• Sukkur Barrage History

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