By Team Clarion
RAMPUR — A mazar believed to be around 150 years old was removed by authorities in Rampur district during a road widening project, leading to concern and disappointment among some locals and devotees.
The action took place on the Johar Bypass in the Ajimnagar police station area, where officials said the mazar of Hazrat Bairam Shah Miyan stood in the middle of the proposed road expansion route.
According to the district administration, the removal was carried out as part of an infrastructure project aimed at widening the road and improving traffic movement and safety in the area.
The operation was conducted late at night under heavy security arrangements. Officials deployed personnel from four police stations along with additional forces from the police lines to maintain law and order during the exercise.
Authorities also restricted public movement around the site and diverted traffic while the work was being carried out.
Public Works Department teams arrived at the location with machinery and began the removal process during the early hours of the morning. Officials said the debris was cleared immediately after the structure was removed so that construction work could continue without interruption.
On the following day, a large neem tree located near the mazar was also removed as part of the project. Workers used heavy equipment to cut the tree, and its remains were transported away from the site.
The mazar, locally known as the “Neem Wali Ziyarat”, had long been recognised by residents of the area. Many people said it held historical and religious significance and had been visited by devotees for generations.
News of the removal spread among locals on Wednesday morning, leading to expressions of dissatisfaction and concern. Police personnel remained present in the area and spoke with residents to prevent tensions from escalating.
This story was originally published in clarionindia.net. Read the full story here.
