LAHORE: The Punjab government has decided to undertake a comprehensive beautification andrestoration project at the historic Lakshmi Chowkand its adjoining areas to revive the architectural character of the locality and preserve its heritage buildings and monuments.
The decision was taken at a meeting chaired by Chief Minister’s Adviser Zeeshan Malik at the Town Hall on Saturday, followed by a visit to Lakshmi Chowk to review the proposed development and conservation measures.
The meeting and subsequent inspection were attended by Lahore Deputy Commissioner retired Capt Muhammad Ali Ijaz, Lahore DevelopmentAuthority (LDA) Director General Tahir Farooq, Local Government Special Secretary Syed Moosa Raza, Lahore Metropolitan Corporation Chief Officer Kaleem Yousaf and other officials.
The participants reviewed proposalsfor the restoration of historic buildings, monuments and archaeological structures in and around Lakshmi Chowk.
Particular attention was given to the proposed facelift of building facades on both sides of the road and the beautification of the Orange Line MetroTrain bridge.
Mr Malik directed the relevant departments to ensure that the original architectural character and structuralfeatures of historic buildings were preserved during restoration work.
He stressed that uniformity in facade improvement and standards of beautification should not be compromised.
He said the initiative was being undertaken on the directions of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz with the aim to restore the historic character of the area and safeguard Lahore’scultural and architectural heritage.
The adviser said the government was working to revive the old identity of Lakshmi Chowk, adding that the beautification of the Orange Line bridge would further enhance the area’s appearance. He emphasised the need to protect and maintain the city’s cultural and historical assets.
DC Ijaz, while speaking on the occasion, said that the improvement of the facade on both sides of the road and restoration of historic buildings would be carried out in accordance with high quality construction and finishing standards.
He said that resources were being provided for the conservation and restoration of heritage structures, adding that all relevant departments would work in coordination to ensure the timely and quality completion of the project.
Speaking on the occasion, LDA DG Farooq stressed that preserving the original appearance of historic monuments and buildings was essential. He said the facade improvement projeet would incor-porate a blend of modern design elements and traditional architecture. He added that the restoration of historic buildings would also help promote tourism in the provincial capital.
Talking to Dawn, Mr Ijaz said thatbefore the start ofthe restoration work, the government would make all out efforts to carry out construction work in line with the engineering and architectural techniques used during the British era.
VISITOR BAN: Lahore Commissioner Muhammad Jahanzaib Awan has directed the authorities concerned to ensure a complete ban on public entry into the ongoing construction and restoration sites in theWalled City of Lahore, stressing that the safety of citizens must remain the top priority.
He issued the directive during a visit to various development and conservation projects in the historic Walled City, accompanied by Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA) Director General Najamus Saqib.
The commissioner visited Delhi Gate, Masala Bazaar, Dry Fruit Bazaar and the areas outside the Delhi Gate, where he reviewed the progress of ongoing infrastructure development, conservation and urban improvement initiatives being undertaken by the WCLA.
He inspected the installation of traditional cultural jharokhas(ornamental overhanging balconies), sewerage works, conservation activities and construction projects, and was briefed on measures aimed at restoring the historic character of the area while improving facilities for residents,traders and visitors.
Earlier, a meeting chaired by the commissioner reviewed the progress of various development and restoration schemes across the Walled City.
Officials briefed the meeting on ongoing infrastructure improvement and heritage revival projects, including restoration work at Anarkali, the Old Steam Pump House, the Old State Bank, Ewing Hall, Neela Gumbad Parking and Circular Road, besides other sites.