The Punjab government has decided to launch a major restoration and beautification project at Lahore’s historic Lakshmi Chowk and surrounding areas.
The initiative aims to revive the area’s original architectural identity while protecting its heritage buildings, monuments and archaeological structures.
Historic Buildings and Facades to Be Restored The decision was taken during a meeting chaired by Chief Minister’s Adviser Zeeshan Malik at Town Hall on Saturday.
Officials later visited Lakshmi Chowk to inspect the proposed restoration and development work.
Lahore Deputy Commissioner retired Capt Muhammad Ali Ijaz, Lahore Development Authority Director General Tahir Farooq, Local Government Special Secretary Syed Moosa Raza, Lahore Metropolitan Corporation Chief Officer Kaleem Yousaf and other officials attended the meeting and inspection.
During the meeting, officials reviewed plans to restore historic buildings, monuments and archaeological structures in and around Lakshmi Chowk.
The government also plans to improve building facades on both sides of the road and beautify the Orange Line Metro Train bridge.
Original Architectural Character to Be Preserved Zeeshan Malik directed the relevant departments to protect the original design and structural features of historic buildings during restoration.
He also stressed that authorities must maintain consistent standards for facade improvements and beautification.
According to Malik, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz directed the government to undertake the project to revive the area’s historic character and protect Lahore’s cultural and architectural heritage.
He said the government wants to restore Lakshmi Chowk’s old identity. He added that beautifying the Orange Line bridge would also improve the overall appearance of the locality.
British-Era Construction Techniques to Be Used Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Ali Ijaz said authorities would ensure high-quality construction and finishing while improving road-side facades and restoring historic buildings.
He said the government is providing resources for the conservation of heritage structures. All relevant departments will also coordinate to complete the project on time and maintain quality standards.
Speaking to National Press Bureau, Ijaz said the government would make every effort to use engineering and architectural techniques similar to those used during the British era when carrying out the restoration work.
Modern and Traditional Designs to Be Combined LDA Director General Tahir Farooq said preserving the original appearance of historic buildings and monuments remains essential.
He said the facade improvement project would combine modern design elements with traditional architecture. Farooq added that restoring historic buildings could also help promote tourism in Lahore.
Public Entry Banned at Walled City Construction Sites Separately, Lahore Commissioner Muhammad Jahanzaib Awan directed authorities to impose a complete ban on public entry at ongoing construction and restoration sites in the Walled City.
He said citizen safety must remain the top priority during development work. The commissioner issued the directive while visiting several development and conservation projects with Walled City of Lahore Authority Director General Najamus Saqib.
He inspected work at Delhi Gate, Masala Bazaar, Dry Fruit Bazaar and areas outside Delhi Gate. Officials briefed him on infrastructure upgrades, conservation projects and urban improvement work being carried out by the WCLA.
Jharokhas, Sewerage and Heritage Sites Under Restoration During the visit, the commissioner inspected the installation of traditional cultural jharokhas, sewerage works, conservation activities and other construction projects.
Officials said the work aims to restore the historic character of the area while improving facilities for residents, traders and visitors.
Earlier, a meeting chaired by the commissioner reviewed progress on several restoration and development schemes across the Walled City.
Projects discussed included restoration work at Anarkali, the Old Steam Pump House, the Old State Bank, Ewing Hall, Neela Gumbad Parking and Circular Road, among other locations.
Awan said these projects would help preserve Lahore’s historic and cultural heritage while supporting commercial activity in the old city.
He directed authorities to keep all construction zones completely closed to the public until work is finished. He also stressed that development and conservation work must protect Lahore’s architectural heritage without compromising public safety.