Godee Bungalow on the right side the protective bund on Indus river, in Deh Pako Buddani (near Buddani), is a unique example of classical architecture. Based on a platform comprising three semi circular tunnels, the ruined structures of this rest house has no match in the entire province of Sindh, built during colonial times. It is well equipped with the system to counter rain related and lightening accidents. Its outer wall is about 3 feet wide while the thickness of interior wall is about 5 feet. It has a common stairs with a facility of spending night on its top during hot seasons. It comprises over two bed rooms with a vast drawing room. Half of its wooden roof plastered with mud has been teared apart by the local thieves in order to get prized teek wooden logs. All its wooden fixtures have been uprooted and stolen.
Moreover, the illegal and unchecked trend of tearing its structures and getting bricks was on the rise, when the writer visited it. The only architectural monument in Sindh, which is more or less identical to the design of this building is Halani Darbar in District Naushahro Froze. It is also based on semi circular vast tunnels with red brick masonry.
Mr. Muhammad Ali Chachar, a local school teacher and a roving encyclopaedia on the history and heritage of this area claims that this bungalow was built in 1876. He further claims that such a commemorative plaque was installed in the building until recently. However, it was removed by thieves during their operation to get precious material out of this unclaimed historical building.
In 1864, then British Government, in order to avoiding the ravages caused during the flood seasons, built a protective bank on the Indus River in between Kashmore-Sukkur section. To facilitate the field staff and the inspection officers, this rest house was built. It is about 10 feet high above the ground level. It is said until mid 1960s, (when Guddu Barrage was constructed), this rest house was very much in use of the irrigation staff and was also a worth visiting and living place. Seeking or getting accommodation in Godee Bungalow became the symbol of status. Big landlords of the areas used to feel proud in accommodating their friends in this rest house. Seeking accommodation in this rest house was not the job of Tom, Dick and Herry. The bungalow is also equipped with the earth system in case of lightening fall during rainy season.
Mr. Muhammad Ali also claims that Bakhshapur Police Station was established near to it in 1932. Moreover, during the same period a Post Office was also setup near to it in order to improvise the communication system of the occupants of this rest house with the outside world. During its heydays a visitors' book was used to be maintained in the house. However, following its ruinage all its belongings vanished away without any account for.
The building very much qualifies to be declared as a protected site and may be maintained according to the prescribed laws.
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