In a recent development, the demolition of a 16th-century Mughal-era structure in Rehara village, near Islamabad, has sparked significant controversy and criticism. This follows the earlier destruction of a World War I memorial in the same area, both of which were razed to make way for a private housing project. According to the Department of Archaeology and Museums (DOAM), the Mughal structure, believed to have been built during the reign of Emperor Akbar, was the oldest historical ruin in the region. It featured an above-ground arch and a main chamber measuring 8 by 4.5 meters, with 1.5-meter-thick walls made of limestone and sandstone, which required careful excavation. However, these remains have been entirely wiped out, as noted by a DOAM team that inspected the site post-demolition (Tribune Latest, ProPakistani, Dawn). The demolition has been met with negative sentiment across various sources, highlighting the unchecked urban development and the loss of historical heritage. Dawn reported that DOAM had been in communication with the Capital Development Authority (CDA) since 2020, seeking records to protect such sites, but received no response. A senior official anonymously revealed that a report on the destruction had been sent to the Prime Minister's Office, emphasizing the cultural and historical significance of these sites (Dawn, Daily Pakistan). Interestingly, DOAM reversed its stance on the World War I memorial, stating it was not protected under the Antiquities Act of 1975, thus not requiring a no-objection certificate for demolition, despite earlier claims of unauthorized removal (Dawn, Daily Pakistan).