The Punjab government has launched an ambitious initiative to restore the historic charm of Lahore, bringing back original names of streets, buildings, and cultural landmarks. The project aims to boost tourism while preserving the city’s rich heritage.
A high-level meeting on Lahore Heritage Areas Revival was chaired by Mian Nawaz Sharif and Maryam Nawaz Sharif. Officials presented visual updates on ongoing restoration work, outlining plans for streets, historical gates, museums, and public spaces.
Under the initiative, old street names will be reinstated, and several government colleges upgraded to universities will revert to their original names by removing the “University” suffix.
Plans include developing a Convent Garden behind Tollinton Market, with semi-covered areas, shops, and a two-level underground parking facility for cars and bikes. An Everything Organic Café will also be established at the market.
The New Museum Block will feature world-class galleries, historical weapons, coin collections, and exhibits on Chinese and Sikh heritage. Interactive displays are being added to engage tourists. The route from Shah Alam Gate to Rang Mahal Chowk will be converted into a pedestrian pathway.
Eight historic passageways—including Bhatti, Mori, Mochi, Shah Alam, Yeki, Musti, and Delhi Gate areas—will be restored to their original grandeur. Iconic structures like Maryam Zamani Mosque will undergo renovation. Electric carts will transport tourists along the royal routes, and a tourist information office will be set up at Akbari Gate.
Restoration of the royal fort walls is underway, with Phase One covering Taxali Gate to Bhatti Gate, and Phase Two from Yeki Gate to Musti Gate. Water channels around the walled city are being reviewed for cleaning and rehabilitation.
A “Suthra Punjab” wing may be established for ongoing maintenance of heritage buildings. Bowli Bagh at Shah Alam Chowk will be cleared of encroachments, and the Diwadhi near Neela Gumbad will be restored with historical accuracy. A Neela Gumbad Café will also be opened for visitors.
Renovation work is also planned at First India Bank, Evening Hall, and the iconic Pak Tea House. Officials presented updates on 36 lanes of skilled artisans in Inner Lahore and the expansion of Data Darbar, requiring acquisition of 18 kanals of land.
CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif instructed that affected parties be fairly compensated at market rates to ensure smooth execution of the restoration projects.
