LAHORE DIVISION

Lahore | ReNews Pakistan Pakistan Railways has announced an ambitious restoration and modernisation plan for the historic Lahore and Taxila railway stations, combining heritage conservation with contemporary passenger amenities in a move aimed at preserving the country's architectural legacy while strengthening tourism and rail travel. The comprehensive master plans have been finalised on the directives of Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi, with the Punjab government extending its support under the instructions of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. Officials said the projects are designed to restore the stations' historic character while upgrading infrastructure to meet modern operational and passenger requirements. According to Pakistan Railways, the restoration programme will prioritise the preservation of each station's original architectural identity and historical significance. At the same time, the projects will introduce improvements in accessibility, safety, passenger comfort and public services without compromising the heritage value of the sites. At Lahore Railway Station, restoration work will include structural rehabilitation, repairs to roofing and drainage systems, installation of heritage-style lighting, refurbishment of the main concourse and reservation office, and restoration of passenger platforms. Modern facilities such as a family lounge, an information centre and enhanced passenger amenities will also be added to improve the overall travel experience. The Taxila Railway Station project will focus on restoring the historic ticket office and verandahs, improving pedestrian access, developing landscaped public spaces, upgrading parking and public facilities, and transforming the former goods warehouse into a café and restaurant through adaptive reuse. The station will also feature heritage displays showcasing Taxila's rich archaeological and cultural history to encourage tourism and educate visitors. Pakistan Railways said both projects will be carried out in accordance with internationally recognised heritage conservation principles. Unauthorised additions made over the years will be removed to restore the stations' original appearance while ensuring that modern facilities are integrated in a manner that respects their historic architecture. Railways Minister Muhammad Hanif Abbasi said the initiative is part of a broader nationwide programme to restore historic railway stations across Pakistan. The programme seeks to safeguard the country's railway heritage, enhance passenger services, improve operational standards and promote tourism by transforming historic stations into attractive cultural and transportation hubs. Officials believe the restoration of Lahore and Taxila railway stations will not only preserve two of Pakistan's most significant railway landmarks but also contribute to regional economic activity, cultural tourism and a more comfortable travel experience for passengers.

Lahore : ReNews Pakistan Lahore Development Authority Director General Tahir Farooq visited Data Darbar and the Bhati Chowk Underpass to review the progress of ongoing development projects, drainage arrangements and safety measures during the monsoon rains. During the visit, TEPA Chief Engineer Iqrar Hussain briefed the LDA director general on the progress of the project, challenges caused by the rainfall and precautionary measures being implemented at the site. Officials informed the director general that heavy rain had continued intermittently around Data Darbar and Bhati Chowk. Despite the adverse weather, effective safety arrangements remained in place around the service road, the drainage well under construction and other development sites. Traffic around the underpass was also flowing without interruption, helping residents and commuters avoid major difficulties while travelling through the area. Farooq directed the relevant authorities to give the highest priority to public safety throughout the monsoon season and strengthen precautionary measures at all development sites. He said the agencies concerned were responsible not only for completing the projects but also for protecting citizens and maintaining the smooth flow of traffic. The LDA director general instructed WASA to deploy drainage teams in two shifts at Bhati Chowk and Circular Road to ensure the timely removal of rainwater. He directed officials to respond immediately wherever water accumulated so that traffic movement and daily life were not disrupted. At the conclusion of the visit, Farooq reviewed the overall progress of the development works, the drainage system and the precautions adopted during the rainy season. He directed the relevant officers to maintain continuous monitoring throughout the monsoon and ensure that all departments remained fully prepared to respond to any emergency situation.

Lahore : ReNews Pakistan Lahore Development Authority Director General Tahir Farooq visited LDA City, reviewed the land acquisition process and directed officials to ensure that development work continues without interruption. He also ordered special measures to improve residential facilities for citizens in the housing scheme. During the visit, the LDA director general inspected the One Window Cell established for land acquisition in Mouza Toor Warraich. He met residents, listened to their concerns and reviewed the complaints they were facing during the acquisition process. Farooq said land acquisition in Mouza Toor Warraich was progressing rapidly, while representatives of all relevant departments had been deployed at the One Window Cell to assist citizens and resolve their cases under one roof. He also sought details from revenue officials and LDA teams regarding the facilities being provided to the public. He directed the officials concerned to process all cases transparently and without unnecessary delays. The director general later chaired a meeting to review development progress and other matters relating to LDA City. The directors of LDA City, Engineering and Land Acquisition Collector briefed him on the status of various projects. The meeting was informed that the installation of electricity meters was under way in C Block of LDA City. Officials also briefed the director general on the measures taken and progress achieved in the land acquisition process in Mouza Halloki. Farooq directed the authorities to accelerate land acquisition in other mouzas of LDA City and ensure that work on all development projects continues without disruption so that residents can receive essential housing facilities at the earliest. Additional Director General Urban Planning, the directors of LDA City, Engineering and Land Acquisition Collector, along with other relevant officials, attended the meeting. The LDA director general later inspected the construction of the LDA City site office. Expressing satisfaction with the progress, he directed the project team to complete the work within the stipulated timeframe.