Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) President Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz chaired a high-level meeting focused on restoring and preserving Lahore’s historical heritage.

A new authority, the Lahore Authority for Heritage Revival (LAHR), has been established to oversee the city's restoration efforts. Nawaz Sharif will serve as the Patron-in-Chief of LAHR’s steering committee, while a sub-functional committee comprising relevant officials has also been formed.

It was decided in the meeting that encroachments around Lahore’s historical sites will be identified and removed.

PMLN supremo Nawaz Sharif directed authorities to provide alternative locations and compensation for businesses affected by encroachment removal.

A comprehensive plan for the restoration of Lahore’s heritage areas has been requested. The city will be divided into six zones for simultaneous restoration work.

Underground shifting of electric wires on Mall Road is progressing rapidly to enhance its aesthetic appeal.

Five locations in the city have been identified for underground parking projects. Proposals for restoring the original structure of Neela Gumbad are under review.

Circular Road, Baghichiyan, and old drainage systems will be restored to their original condition.

Maryam Nawaz expressed displeasure over encroachments around Circular Road and historic city gates, ordering their removal.

A plan is under consideration to develop a pedestrian pathway from Shah Alam Market to Bhatti Gate.

Major historical landmarks, including Lahore Fort, the tombs of Jahangir and Noor Jahan, Shalimar Gardens, and Kamran’s Baradari, will also be restored.

Nawaz Sharif emphasized the importance of preserving Lahore’s historical identity, stating:
"Old Lahore is incredibly beautiful and must be restored to its original form. Preserving our lost heritage is a national duty."

He further compared the initiative to European cities, saying:
"Even after centuries, European nations have maintained their old castles and buildings. Destroying our national heritage is a sign of backwardness."

Maryam Nawaz reaffirmed the government’s commitment:
"Encroachments will no longer be allowed to ruin cities. We are working on the restoration of old Lahore, and in a few years, people will see a transformed city."

She also highlighted the importance of civic awareness:
"Restoring historical buildings is not enough; their maintenance is equally essential. Public awareness about heritage conservation is crucial."

Briefing

Lahore’s historical gates will be restored to their original state. The city has at least 115 buildings classified as historical heritage sites.

Out of 75 colonial-era buildings, restoration work is ongoing on 48 structures.

Mall Road will feature plaques marking the residences of literary figures like Saadat Hasan Manto and Shorish Kashmiri. The heritage revival initiative aims to restore Lahore’s cultural and historical charm, ensuring its legacy for future generations.