Deputy Speaker Sindh Assembly Anthony Naveed, Director General of Archeology Department Abdul Fattah Sheikh and Bishop Kaleem John of Hyderabad Diocese inaugurate the Kotri Church renovation project. Photo: Express
HYDERABAD:
As the Christmas season fills the air with joy and anticipation, a historic church in the railway colony of Kotri is being lovingly restored to its original grandeur. Built in 1846, Kotri Railway Church is one of the oldest places of worship in Sindh. Nearly 179 years later, its renovation began, an effort that holds immense significance for the Christian community in and around Hyderabad.
For local Christians, restoration is about more than bricks and mortar. It is a reaffirmation of their heritage, their faith and their place in the diverse social fabric of Pakistan. The timing, coinciding with Christmas, adds to the symbolism: a season of hope, renewal and unity. Families preparing for the festive celebrations see the revival of this church as a gift that strengthens their spiritual connection and preserves a legacy for future generations.
The project was officially inaugurated by Deputy Speaker Sindh Assembly Anthony Naveed along with Director General of Archeology Abdul Fattah Sheikh, Bishop Kaleem John of Hyderabad Diocese and other community leaders. Their presence underlined the government’s commitment to protecting the rights of minorities and preserving cultural monuments. Naveed highlighted that Sindh has long been a beacon of interfaith harmony, where people of all religions live with respect and dignity. He described the restoration of the church as “a practical demonstration of religious freedom and solidarity with minority communities.”
Officials said the renovation would be completed in about 150 days, without compromising on quality. The project, costing around Rs30 million, will also include basic facilities such as toilets and improved infrastructure. According to Director General of Archeology Abdul Fattah Sheikh, Sindh has more than 3,200 heritage-listed buildings, of which nearly 200 have already been restored, including several churches. The Kotri Railway Church, however, is of particular importance due to its age and historical value.
Community members expressed joy over the initiative, noting that the church has long been in need of attention. For them, restoration is not just about preserving a building but also about saving a space where generations have gathered for worship, weddings and Christmas services. The revival of this sacred site during the holiday season is seen as a powerful message of inclusion and respect.
Beyond the Christian community, the renovation finds an echo in society at large. It reflects Pakistan’s commitment to ensuring religious freedom and equal opportunities for minorities.
As Vice President Naveed noted: “True progress is only possible when every citizen enjoys dignity, equality and protection. » The restoration of the Kotri church is therefore more than a heritage project: it is a symbol of peace, love and fraternity.
