The Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA) has launched the first phase of its Dilkash Lahore renovation project to restore and beautify The Mall.
Syed Mubashar Hassan, Punjab Secretary for LG and Community Development, was the chief guest at the ceremony, which took place at Dayal Singh Mansion on The Mall.
The initiative is part of the Dilkash Punjab project to beautify the province’s major cities. The Local Government Community Development Department assigned the beautification work to the WCLA.
The project will cost Rs 487.7 million and run from Charring-Cross to Old Tollinton Market. The project’s first phase will include the development of recreational areas such as public gathering places, public sitting areas, electric lighting, and traditional activities, as well as the placement of billboards, directional signs, and historical plaques at various locations.
According to WCLA Director General Kamran Lashari, the initiative aims to improve The Mall’s historic and aesthetic appearance and turn it into a tourist destination.
“Being the heart of Lahore, the Mall has always been the center of attraction, and this endeavor will further increase the beautification of the road. We are excited to execute this project as it will help revive the old glory of the Mall and its historic fabric”, he said.
Moreover, a couple of months ago, WCLA announced its decision to convert the Wazir Khan Mosque’s 17th-century hujras into a business hub to showcase the works of famous artisans and companies.
Following the renovation and conservation of these hujras, local businesses can be displayed for tourists. Luna Heritage has opened its first on-site franchise location, featuring products such as handmade artifacts, clothing, antiques, museum replicas, and other accessories. Pen Asia, Khazineyi, Hast-o-Neest, Indus Heritage Trust (IHT), and Tahir Mahmood Designs are also expected to open stores in these hujras.
This business hub aims to preserve the walled city’s historical sites while also traditionally promoting local products. An inaugural ceremony was held in this regard at Wazir Khan Square. The ceremony was addressed by WCLA Director General Kamran Lashari, who expressed the department’s vision of resurrecting the grandeur of old Lahore and transforming it into a “prized piece of civilization for posterity.”