LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Nawaz Sharif chaired a meeting that led to the establishment of the Lahore Authority for Heritage Revival (LAHR).
This new authority is tasked with preserving and restoring historical heritage sites in the province.¹ Nawaz Sharif has been appointed as the Patron-in-Chief of LAHR’s steering committee, while a sub-functional committee comprising relevant officers has also been formed.
The meeting focused on identifying and removing encroachments from Lahore’s historical sites, with directives to provide alternative spaces for businesses and compensation for those affected.
A comprehensive plan is being developed to restore Lahore’s heritage areas, dividing the city into six zones for simultaneous restoration work. Additionally, efforts are underway to shift electricity wires underground to improve the aesthetic appeal of Lahore Mall Road.
Five locations have been identified for underground parking sites, and suggestions are being reviewed for restoring the original appearance of the Neela Gumbad.
The meeting also decided to restore Circular Road and surrounding areas to their original state. CM Maryam Nawaz expressed her frustration over encroachments around Circular Road and historical gates, instructing officials to remove obstacles and restore the landscape of Bhati Gate and other areas.
A proposal to build a pedestrian walkway from Shah Alam Market to Bhati is also under consideration. Nawaz Sharif emphasized the importance of restoring Lahore’s historical heritage, stating that it’s a national duty to preserve the city’s original state.
CM Maryam Nawaz assured that the provincial government is working to restore ancient Lahore, promising that the city will be transformed in the next few years.
