Lahore: The Punjab government has decided in principle to restore the original names of several historic roads, streets and educational institutions in Lahore as part of a broader effort to revive the city’s heritage. However, no final decision has yet been made on restoring Minto Park’s historic cricket ground and wrestling arena.
The decision was taken during a meeting on the Lahore Heritage Areas Revival (LAHR) project, jointly chaired by PML-N President Nawaz Sharif and Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. The meeting reviewed progress on multiple restoration initiatives and outlined new interventions aimed at preserving Lahore’s historic identity while improving urban infrastructure.
According to officials, a number of institutions that were later upgraded to universities will revert to their original names, with the term “university” to be removed. These include Government College Lahore, Lahore College for Women, Forman Christian College, King Edward Medical College, Kinnaird College for Women and the University of Home Economics.
The meeting also discussed restoring the original names of several roads and localities that had been renamed over time. These include Queen’s Road, Jail Road, Lawrence Road, Empress Road and others, which were changed to reflect local or national figures and identities.
In addition to name restoration, the government reviewed a series of heritage conservation and urban improvement projects. Plans were approved to develop a Convent Garden behind Tollinton Market, featuring landscaped areas, retail outlets and a two-storey underground parking facility, along with an “Everything Organic Café.”
A proposal for a New Museum Block was also examined, which will house galleries displaying historical artefacts such as ancient weapons, coins, and exhibits on Chinese and Sikh heritage, supported by interactive digital installations.
The meeting further decided to convert the route from Shahalam Gate to Rang Mahal Chowk into a pedestrian-only walkway, while restoration work will be carried out on eight historic routes within the Walled City, including areas around Bhati, Mochi, Akbari, Yaki, Masti and Delhi Gates.
Other initiatives include the establishment of a Tourist Information Office at Akbari Gate and the restoration of key heritage sites such as Mochi Gate, Yaki Gate and Masti Gate. The phased restoration of the Lahore Fort’s outer walls was also discussed, with an emphasis on maintaining architectural authenticity.
Authorities were directed to clear encroachments at Shah Alami Chowk to restore Baoli Bagh, while a historic structure near Neela Gumbad will be rehabilitated in line with heritage design. Plans for an underground parking facility and a themed café at the site were also reviewed.
The meeting also assessed progress on the expansion of Data Darbar, with a decision to acquire 18 kanals of land for the project. Officials were instructed to ensure compensation to affected individuals at prevailing market rates.
Overall, the initiative reflects a comprehensive approach to preserving Lahore’s historic character through restoration, improved accessibility and tourism-oriented development, while integrating modern urban planning measures.
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