The year 2025 marked a period of exceptional achievement for the Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA) in its mission to protect and revitalize the cultural heart of Pakistan. Guided by scientific research and international conservation standards, the authority executed a series of ambitious projects that not only preserved Lahore's glorious past but also adapted it for sustainable contemporary use.
Major Restoration Projects Reshape the City
Among the most significant undertakings was the comprehensive Akbari Bazaar Restoration Project, approved by the Punjab Chief Minister. With a total budget of Rs 1,005.39 million and a completion target of June 2027, this initiative aims to resurrect Lahore's historic Spice Market as a vibrant commercial hub. Key efforts include the reconstruction of the historic Akbari Gate, creating a model market to boost tourism linked to the Delhi Gate trail and Shahi Hamam, and upgrading infrastructure with facilities that respect the historical environment.
Parallel efforts focused on the Circular Garden and Neela Gumbad area. After detailed surveys of over 2,000 shops across 12 historic gates, the project plans to restore the Circular Garden, clearing visual pollution and improving traffic. A novel solution involves constructing underground plazas with parking and relocating shops using a key-to-key model, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality for visitors and local businesses.
Infrastructure Modernization and Monument Conservation
In a landmark move for inner-city Lahore, the WCLA launched the Mall Road underground wiring project, burying overhead electricity lines from State Bank to Hall Road signal. This first-of-its-kind initiative removes visual obstructions against the historic facades, modernizing infrastructure while preserving scenic beauty. Similar underground utility work was completed on the Fort Lahore (Ram Market Side).
Monument-specific conservation saw substantial progress. The restoration of the Mughal-era Anarkali Tomb, a Rs 181 million project launched in July 2024, is approximately 70% complete, with focus now on delicate fresco painting restoration for a June 2026 finish. At the Shahdara Complex, the Akbari Sarai Mosque and surrounding heritage elements were fully restored, reviving the site's integrated historical character.
Strategic Partnerships and Future Safeguards
Collaborating with the Aga Khan Trust for Culture and AFD, the WCLA initiated major upgrades around the Shahi Qila and Badshahi Mosque buffer zone. This project, set for completion by 2027, involves relocating overhead utilities underground, replacing old water and gas pipes, and restoring basements, alongside setting up the Akbari Gate and Summer Palace Museum.
To proactively protect the city's architectural fabric, the authority began a comprehensive survey of dilapidated buildings in inner Lahore. Using digital technology and ground inspections, this effort aims to identify dangerous structures to safeguard both heritage and human life, with a special committee monitoring illegal constructions and demolitions.
Beyond Lahore, significant progress was reported at the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Haveli in Gujranwala, where over 50% of work on structural strengthening, roof restoration, and system installation is complete.
Through these multifaceted efforts in 2025, the WCLA has successfully strengthened Lahore's historical identity while delivering tangible cultural, educational, and economic benefits. The authority's work stands as a global example of how heritage conservation can be seamlessly integrated with modern urban development for the benefit of communities and future generations.
