Lahore to Restore Lakshmi Chowk Heritage Area Using British-Era Construction Techniques

The Punjab government has approved a major restoration and beautification project for Lahore's historic Lakshmi Chowk and the surrounding neighbourhood, with plans to revive the area's original architectural character while safeguarding its heritage buildings, monuments and archaeological structures.

The decision was taken at a meeting chaired by Zeeshan Malik, Adviser to the Chief Minister, at Town Hall on Saturday. Officials subsequently visited Lakshmi Chowk to inspect the proposed restoration and development work. The meeting was attended by Lahore Deputy Commissioner retired Captain Muhammad Ali Ijaz, Lahore Development Authority Director General Tahir Farooq, Local Government Special Secretary Syed Moosa Raza, Lahore Metropolitan Corporation Chief Officer Kaleem Yousaf and other officials.

During the session, officials reviewed plans to restore historic buildings and monuments in and around the square. The project also covers improvements to building facades on both sides of the road and the beautification of the Orange Line Metro Train bridge, which runs through the area.

Malik directed the relevant departments to preserve the original design and structural features of historic buildings during restoration work, and stressed that authorities must apply consistent standards to facade improvements and beautification. He said the initiative follows directions from Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to revive the area's historic character and protect Lahore's cultural and architectural heritage.

According to Malik, the government wants to restore Lakshmi Chowk's old identity, and beautifying the Orange Line bridge would improve the overall appearance of the locality. The project is part of broader efforts to conserve Lahore's architectural legacy while upgrading public spaces in the heart of the city.