Abbotsford Renames South Fraser Way To “Komagata Maru Way”

The City of Abbotsford passed a motion for commemorative renaming of South Fraser Way to “Komagata Maru Way” between Fairlane Street to Ware Street and create an interpretive plaque at the Heritage Sikh Temple. Abbotsford Mayor Ross Siemens and Councillors joined Vice president and Spokesperson of the Descendants of Komagata Maru Society Raj Singh Toor in unveiling the Komagata Maru Way Street Sign on Monday in the City Hall Council Chambers.

By DESIBUZZCanada Staff

ABBOTSFORD – The City of Abbotsford passed a motion for commemorative renaming of South Fraser Way to “Komagata Maru Way” between Fairlane Street to Ware Street and create an interpretive plaque at the Heritage Sikh Temple.

Abbotsford Mayor Ross Siemens and Councillors joined Vice president and Spokesperson of the Descendants of Komagata Maru Society Raj Singh Toor in unveiling the Komagata Maru Way street Sign on Monday in the City Hall Council Chambers.

Toor had contacted Abbotsford staff in the Parks, Recreation and Culture department (“PRC”) requesting the renaming of a park, street, or the development of a commemorative interpretive plaque as a tribute to educate the public about the tragic event.

The Sikhs were some of the early pioneers of Abbotsford making important contributions to the labour pool for the lumber mills, railway projects, and industries of the area. Support of the passengers of the Komagata Maru was a very pressing concern for all Sikhs in BC during the summer of 1914, Some Sikhs lived in Abbotsford Summer of 1914 as well and they generously responded with donations of food, water, money, and medicine.  The City of Abbotsford  have direct connection to the Komagata Maru incident.

“I would like to say thank you to Respected MayorRoss Siemens the Councillors and   the City of Abbotsford staff, and for their work commemorative renaming of South Fraser Way to “Komagata Maru Way” between Fairlane Street to Ware Street; and, create an interpretive plaque at the Heritage SikhTemple Historic Site a reality,” Toor said. “We can’t undo the past, but we can move forward and leave a legacy for future generations by educating them about the past.” 

Way to “Komagata Maru Way” between Fairlane Street to Ware Street; and Komagata Maru Plaque will help educate the community and remind us of Abbotsford’s diverse makeup. I hope that it will help in connecting British Columbians, Canadians and Abbotsford residents with their past, in order to build a more peaceful and tolerant tomorrow.”