Works on the reconstruction of the Queenstown Jama Masjid, which was dismantled in early 2007, are scheduled to recommence within two months, according to Chairman of the Building Committee Sattaur Gafoor.
After being in existence for over 100 years, the Masjid, which is located on Church Street, was demolished on February 10, 2007. It had a leaking roof and rotting floor.
The Queenstown Jama Masjid was the first Muslim place of worship to be built in Georgetown, back in 1895, according to caribbeanmuslims.com.
Before the previous building was demolished there were calls for it to be preserved as a part of the country’s architectural heritage.
As promised by Imam Shaheed Mohammed, the reconstruction of the building had begun, but works were halted after the laying of the foundation and flooring of the new mosque.
Speaking with Stabroek News last week, Gafoor explained that “the building has a unique design,” so a special steel frame building was ordered from overseas.
This, he said, should arrive in the country within another month and after it has been cleared through customs, the reconstruction process can recommence “hopefully within another two months.” Gafoor said that the mosque is being constructed by Correia & Correia Construction Company. a
