A unique recreational project aimed at food-loving Lahoreites has officially begun, with the launch of a canal ship restaurant at Jallo, offering dining and entertainment right on the water.

Construction work on the canal ship restaurant has formally started at Jallo Mor, where heavy machinery has already reached the site. To facilitate the project, canal water has been temporarily shut off, allowing excavation and structural work to proceed smoothly.

Officials say the initiative is designed to transform the canal area into a modern recreational hub.

Canal depth, width being expanded

For the construction of the floating ship restaurant, the canal depth is being increased to 13 feet, while the width is being expanded to 30 feet. These changes are necessary to safely accommodate the ship and related facilities.

The development will span an area of up to one kilometre once completed.

Lights, picnic areas, green spaces planned

After construction, the entire stretch of the canal will be illuminated with modern lighting models to enhance its nighttime appeal. Surrounding greenbelts will be converted into dedicated picnic areas for families and visitors.

The project aims to combine natural beauty with urban leisure in a single destination.

Cultural performances and live music

In addition to dining on the water, citizens will be able to enjoy a range of recreational activities. Plans include live cultural performances, evening music, and other entertainment both inside the ship restaurant and in the surrounding areas.

Residents have already expressed excitement about the prospect of enjoying food while seated on canal waters.

Punjab Housing Minister Bilal Yasin said the canal ship restaurant project is expected to be completed within this year.

The Punjab cabinet approved the project in August last year, allocating a total cost of Rs549.4 million, underscoring the government’s push to develop new urban recreation facilities in Lahore.