Bhatkal’s Iconic Shamsuddin Circle Clock Tower Demolished for National Highway Expansion
Landmark structure removed to facilitate road widening; residents divided over development vs heritage.
Bhatkal (Fikro Khabar News): The historic clock tower at Shamsuddin Circle, long regarded as a symbol of Bhatkal’s identity, was demolished today as part of the ongoing National Highway expansion project.
After years of delay, work on widening the highway has resumed, and authorities cleared the tower to make way for road expansion.
Shamsuddin Circle is named after the well-known local personality Shamsuddin Saheb, remembered for his social and charitable contributions to the town. The clock tower had stood for years as a prominent landmark at the site, but officials deemed its removal unavoidable due to the widening project.
Residents expressed mixed reactions to the demolition. While some citizens described the development work as a necessity of the times, others voiced sadness over the loss of a historic symbol associated with the town’s identity.
Authorities have not yet clarified whether a new monument or a replacement clock tower will be constructed at the same location in the future.
It is noteworthy that the clock tower was built in 2002 by local businessman Shaique Kola, owner of Pure Gold. The construction reportedly cost around ₹10 lakh.
According to Shaique Kola, the clock tower was conceived as a “Symbol of Unity,” aimed at promoting harmony and brotherhood within the city. Clocks were installed on all four sides so that the time could be viewed from every direction. The central section featured two large, gold-plated bangles, enhancing its beauty and giving it a distinctive character.
Over time, the clock tower became synonymous with Bhatkal. Its image was frequently used in the town’s promotional materials, invitation cards, and on various occasions to represent the city.
