Nawaz Sharif appointed Patron-In-Chief of Lahore Heritage Revival Authority

Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) President Nawaz Sharif has been appointed Patron-in-Chief of the newly established Lahore Authority for Heritage Revival (LAHR), tasked with overseeing the city's historic restoration efforts.

The decision was made during a high-level meeting chaired by Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, focusing on preserving Lahore’s architectural and cultural heritage.

The initiative aims to remove encroachments, restore colonial-era buildings, and enhance historical landmarks to revive the city's original grandeur.

Under the plan, Lahore has been divided into six zones to facilitate structured restoration work. Authorities will identify and clear encroachments around heritage sites while ensuring compensation and relocation for affected businesses.

Key projects include:

🔹 Underground parking at five locations

🔹 Underground shifting of electric wires on Mall Road

🔹 Restoration of Neela Gumbad’s original structure

🔹 Rehabilitation of Circular Road, Baghichiyan, and drainage systems

CM Maryam Nawaz has directed the immediate removal of encroachments near Circular Road and Lahore’s historic gates. Plans are also underway for a pedestrian corridor from Shah Alam Market to Bhatti Gate.

Read more: 'Animosity' towards Nawaz Sharif plunged Imran Khan into crisis: Bokhari

Major historical sites such as Lahore Fort, Shalimar Gardens, Jahangir and Noor Jahan’s tombs, and Kamran’s Baradari will undergo extensive conservation efforts.

Emphasizing the importance of Lahore’s heritage, Nawaz Sharif compared it to European cities that have preserved their historic identity. “Old Lahore is incredibly beautiful and must be restored to its original form,” he remarked.