The Punjab government, illuminating its commitment to heritage and urban renewal, has sanctioned Rs 29.24 billion for the restoration of the Walled City of Lahore. As one of South Asia’s most historically significant urban landscapes, the Walled City project balances architectural conservation, tourism enhancement, and quality urban infrastructure for one of the country’s cultural treasures.

Why the Restoration Matters

The Walled City also called “Androon Lahore” is home to centuries-old monuments, narrow bazaars, havelis, and iconic gateways that narrate the city’s rich Mughal, Sikh, and British colonial past. However, its aging infrastructure, unchecked development, and lack of modern amenities have put its heritage at risk. The restoration aims to preserve historic buildings, revive traditional trades, and improve living standards without compromising the city’s unique character.

Strategic Investment Areas

The Rs 29.24 billion funding will be distributed across multiple strategic domains:

  1. Architectural Conservation: Careful restoration of key historical buildings, gates, mosques, havelis, and courtyards using period-appropriate materials and methods
  2. Tourism Infrastructure: Upgrades to streets, lighting, signage, pedestrian walkways, public toilets, and information centers to enhance visitor experience
  3. Traffic and Mobility: Installation of waste management systems, restricted vehicular zones, electric shuttle services, and better parking solutions
  4. Community Infrastructure: Investments in water, sanitation, health, and primary schools, ensuring local residents enjoy improved services
  5. Craftsmanship and Livelihoods: Support for artisan cooperatives, revival of textile, metalwork, woodcraft, and traditional cuisine, with enhanced market linkages for artisans

This multi-layered approach aims at long-term sustainability, benefiting both residents and the tourism economy without compromising heritage imperatives.

Civic Ownership and Local Engagement

Core to the restoration strategy is community engagement. The plan includes:

  • Active roles for neighborhood councils, resident associations, and local heritage trusts in decision-making
  • Skills development programs to train youth in heritage documentation, guided tours, and craft restoration
  • Public-private partnerships to foster responsible tourism, cultural festivals, and heritage trails

By empowering local communities, the project aims to ensure ownership and accountability.

Alignment with Broader Urban Revitalization Goals

The restoration of the Walled City is part of Punjab’s larger urban transformation agenda under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, complementing initiatives like the E‑Taxi and trackless metro projects. These initiatives collectively seek to modernize infrastructure, reduce pollution, and boost public transport, while preserving the cultural identity of urban centers.

Project Timeline and Oversight

  • Initial architectural assessments and master planning commenced in early 2025
  • Phase one (2025–2027): Stabilization and restoration of key heritage landmarks, street upgrades, and basic utilities
  • Phase two (2027–2030): Expansion of conservation efforts, community facilities, tourism marketing, and economic revitalization

A dedicated Walled City Authority, under provincial oversight and advisory committees, will coordinate implementation. A multi-tier monitoring system involving heritage experts, resident representatives, and independent auditors will ensure transparency and adherence to conservation standards.

Expected Cultural, Social, and Economic Benefits

The restoration is projected to:

  • Preserve heritage: Safeguard the architectural and cultural legacy of Lahore for future generations
  • Boost tourism: Increase local and international tourism, generating new income streams
  • Support livelihoods: Revive local crafts and small businesses tied to heritage tourism
  • Improve living conditions: Provide residents with better public amenities and cleaner living environments
  • Strengthen civic pride: Build a shared sense of history and cultural identity among communities

Conclusion: Heritage Meets Modernity

Punjab’s Rs 29.24 billion investment in the Walled City of Lahore reflects a powerful synthesis of heritage conservation, urban renewal, and community uplift. By blending restoration, infrastructure improvements, and economic inclusion, the project is poised to reposition Androon Lahore as a vibrant cultural and touristic heart of the province reserving its soul while embracing the future.