Historic Jamia Mosque Rajgan faces mounting decay

ISLAMABAD: Concern is rising in Old Khanpur over the worsening state of Jamia Mosque Rajgan, a historic structure believed to be more than 150 years old and regarded by residents as one of the area’s most important cultural and religious landmarks.

The mosque, situated near Khanpur Dam, has fallen into disrepair after years of neglect and the absence of organised conservation work. Residents, historians and visitors have voiced concern about visible deterioration, including cracks, worn surfaces and weakening foundations, and have called for prompt action by the relevant authorities.

Locals say the mosque remains central to the cultural and spiritual identity of the region, even as its condition continues to worsen. They say the structure is affected by weathering, structural strain and a lack of regular upkeep, while heritage conservation institutions have paid little attention despite its significance.

Local elder Haji Saeed said the wider Old Khanpur area was once known for its natural beauty, traditional settlements and cultural life, but many historic sites are now deteriorating. He said the mosque and surrounding heritage reflect the area’s past.

"The mosque's minarets, ancient graves and adjoining shrine all narrate the story of a glorious past. Unfortunately, the absence of effective conservation measures has placed this heritage at serious risk," he added.

Graveyard and shrine also under concern

Next to the mosque is an old graveyard containing burial sites of several generations, with weathered gravestones said to date back centuries. Residents say the graveyard is also deteriorating, citing damaged boundary walls, fading inscriptions and sinking graves, and are demanding restoration and protection of the broader site.

The complex is also linked to Hazrat Syed Sakhi Inayat Bukhari, whose shrine continues to receive devotees and visitors. Residents say the mosque, shrine and graveyard should be preserved together as a single heritage complex to protect the area’s historical continuity and religious importance.

There have also been appeals to the descendants of the Rajgan family, whose ancestral graves are located within the premises, urging them to play a more active part in preservation efforts. Tourists visiting Khanpur Dam have similarly expressed concern and asked provincial and federal authorities to declare the site protected heritage and begin restoration work before the damage becomes irreversible.

Historical background and official response

Historical accounts cited by residents indicate that Jamia Mosque Rajgan was commissioned in 1872 by Sultan Raja Jehandad Khan, the great-grandfather of current Gakhar chief Sultan Raja Shiraz Haider Zaman. Built with red brick, stone and lime mortar, the mosque reportedly took 10 years to complete and was constructed by artisans from across the subcontinent.

For many years, it served as the main place of worship in the area, hosting daily prayers, Friday congregations and major religious gatherings attended by thousands. Although the adjoining palace was demolished during the construction of Khanpur Dam, the mosque remains standing as one of the few visible reminders of Old Khanpur’s past.

Residents continue to call on the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and federal governments, as well as archaeology and tourism authorities, to place the site under a formal conservation programme. They have also proposed the creation of a heritage village to promote cultural tourism. District administration officials have reportedly acknowledged the concerns and told residents the matter would be forwarded to senior authorities for consideration.