The Punjab Department of Archaeology has announced that the newly developed Sialkot Museum will officially open its doors on December 25.
The decision was confirmed following consultations led by Dr. Ehsan Bhutta, Secretary of Tourism, Archaeology, and Museums, Punjab. Dr. Bhutta said the museum aligns with Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s “Magnificent Punjab” vision and supports Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb’s commitment to preserving the province’s archaeological heritage.
A high-level meeting in Lahore brought together key stakeholders, including Deputy Commissioner Sialkot Saba Asghar Ali, Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Syed Ehtisham Mazhar, representatives from the Punjab Small Industries Corporation (PSIC), and officers from the Department of Archaeology.
During the discussions, the Chamber President assured full support for heritage initiatives and praised Dr. Bhutta’s efforts, particularly the establishment of the Business Facilitation Center and the development of the Tannery Zone, both designed to boost Sialkot’s industrial and cultural sectors.
The meeting also focused on the restoration of Sialkot Fort and the development of the new museum, with the Chamber reaffirming its commitment to assist in the fort’s rehabilitation.
Dr. Bhutta acknowledged the contributions of various departments in bringing the museum project near completion. Deputy Commissioner Saba Asghar Ali provided the building for the museum, while Director General of Archaeology Zaheer Abbas Malik oversaw the establishment of two key galleries: Archaeology and Heroes of Sialkot.
Additionally, PSIC Managing Director Saira Umar and her team developed the Art and Craft (Industrial) Gallery, showcasing Sialkot’s craftsmanship heritage.
Following the meeting, Dr. Bhutta, accompanied by officials from Archaeology, PSIC, and Sialkot district administration, visited the museum to inspect ongoing work. He directed all departments to expedite preparations to ensure the museum is ready for the December 25 inauguration and scheduled another inspection for December 13.
Dr. Bhutta also visited Iqbal Manzil, the ancestral home of Allama Muhammad Iqbal, instructing officials to prepare restoration estimates to return the building to its original 1861 condition.
He further ordered the activation of an LED system to screen documentaries on Iqbal’s life, poetry, and philosophy for students and visitors.
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