Lahore: The Punjab government has earmarked PKR 60 billion in the upcoming provincial budget for the development and restoration of 60 archaeological and heritage sites across the province, marking a significant push to promote cultural tourism and preserve the region’s historic legacy.
The initiative includes the revitalization of major landmarks such as the Lahore Museum — set to undergo a PKR 6 billion upgrade to align with international standards — and the declaration of Taxila as an International Heritage City through a comprehensive master plan.
The selected sites span diverse cultural and religious backgrounds, representing Punjab’s multi-faith heritage. To support these developments, the government also plans to enhance transportation and tourism infrastructure, ensuring easier access for domestic and international visitors.
According to senior provincial officials, PC-1 documents for these projects are already under preparation to allow physical work to begin at the start of the new fiscal year on July 1, avoiding procedural delays.
The Punjab government is also embracing technology to improve tourist experiences. A new app is being launched to virtually connect 160 sites and guide visitors in areas like Murree. Meanwhile, a dedicated Tourist Force comprising 600 personnel is being deployed, with 200 already stationed in Murree.
The initiative is part of a broader plan to promote domestic tourism, especially for citizens who cannot afford international travel. Of the 800 archaeological sites identified across the province, 60 have been prioritized for immediate development, many of which were neglected after the 18th Constitutional Amendment.
Taxila’s master plan includes short-, medium-, and long-term interventions such as expansion of the museum, road upgrades, creation of a Gandhara Crafts Street, and an Open-Air Museum at Bhir. Tourist trails will be introduced using electric carts to connect key heritage sites like Dharmarajika, Mohra Moradu, and Sirkup.
Medium- and long-term plans cover excavation, preservation of complexes such as Sirkup and Kalawan, digital archaeology projects, and restoration of monuments including Mankiala and Bhallar.
To ensure legal compliance, all interventions will follow the Punjab Antiquities Act 1975, which mandates approval from the Director General of Archaeology for any development in protected areas. Specific bylaws and zoning regulations are also being formulated under the UNESCO Habitat HUL framework to balance urban development with heritage conservation.
Commenting on the initiative, Senior Provincial Minister for Planning, Development, Environment and Tourism Marriyum Aurangzeb said the government is committed to building a complete ecosystem for tourism under the leadership of the Punjab Chief Minister. “Sites ignored for decades will now be preserved and promoted globally through a well-thought-out strategy,” she stated.
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