Identification of Industrial Heritage and a Theoretical Framework for an Industrial Heritage Inventory System in Pakistan

Heritage studies and historical preservation in Pakistan, which have gained momentum in the past few decades, have been focused primarily on residential, commercial, and religious architecture dating to the British and Mughal eras, leaving aside an important layer of economic and urban history related to the industrialization of major cities. Most industrial buildings are left to decay or are demolished to make space for new development. Based on a literature review of Pakistan’s industrial heritage and site surveys conducted in Pakistan between 2019 and 2021, several industrial facilities were identified that have social, cultural, and economic potential for reuse or retooling to address the problem of inadequate public amenities in urban areas. There is, however, no documentation regarding such sites that is available for use by potential stakeholders. An inventory system is proposed to establish an overview of the industrial heritage in Pakistan (types of sites, current properties, spatial characteristics, significance) and to facilitate the recognition and management of these sites. An “industrial site inventory record” (ISIR) form is proposed to record information about industrial buildings and sites. In addition, an “industrial site statement of significance” (ISSOS) is proposed for use in recording the description, heritage value, and important architectural elements of significant industrial buildings and sites. The proposed inventory system is a step toward the recognition of industrial heritage and its potential for adaptive reuse and contribution to urban regeneration.