Rs18 billion allocated for restoration of heritage inside Walled City of Lahore

The Punjab government has earmarked Rs17.97 billion in the budget for a wide range of development and heritage conservation projects under the chief minister’s initiative, aimed at revitalising the historic Walled City of Lahore and improving urban infrastructure.

According to budget documents, the allocation is part of approved projects worth Rs56 billion focused on preserving Lahore’s cultural heritage, enhancing tourism facilities and upgrading civic amenities.

Among the major allocations, Rs990 million has been set aside for the Spice Market at Delhi Gate, while Rs790 million has been allocated for Shahdara Complex Phase-II.

The government has also earmarked Rs360 million for the restoration of the historic Lahore Fort and Rs700 million for conservation and development work at Shalimar Gardens.

To address longstanding infrastructure challenges, Rs600 million has been allocated for sewerage projects in the old city areas, while an additional Rs1.10 billion has been dedicated specifically to improving the walled city sewerage system.

For the restoration and rehabilitation of historic commercial centres, Rs590 million has been allocated for New Anarkali, Old Anarkali and Pan Market, while Rs580 million has been earmarked for the restoration of Tollinton Market.

The budget also includes Rs690 million for the restoration and beautification of the Neela Gumbad, Ewing Hall and Pak Tea House surroundings, key landmarks in Lahore’s historic urban landscape.

To ease traffic congestion and improve parking facilities in the densely populated Walled City, the government has allocated Rs750 million for the Neela Gumbad Parking Plaza, Rs1.60 billion for the Sheeranwala Gate Parking Plaza and Rs1.85 billion for the Mochi Gate Parking Plaza.

In addition, Rs2 billion has been allocated for the Taxali Gate Parking Project, while Rs600 million has been earmarked for parking facilities at Tollinton Market.

Officials said the projects are aimed at preserving Lahore’s historical identity while improving infrastructure, tourism potential and public amenities across the city’s centuries-old urban core.