Punjab Decides to Ban Protest Rallies on Major Lahore Road

The Punjab government has decided to ban all protest gatherings and rallies on The Mall as part of measures linked to the Lahore Heritage Areas Revival (LAHAR) project.

The decision was taken at a meeting jointly chaired by Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz in Lahore on Wednesday. The meeting reviewed progress on restoration projects related to historic sites in the provincial capital.

Officials briefed the meeting on plans to restore all sections of the Lahore Fort to their original condition. Spread over 40 acres, the fort complex includes 26 monuments that will undergo restoration.

The meeting discussed a proposal to establish a dedicated wing in the tourism department for restoration and maintenance of historic buildings. Authorities also plan to convert Kharaak Singh Haveli and old servant quarters into a heritage hotel.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz directed authorities to remove electricity and other overhead wiring from across the Walled City. Restoration work from Tollinton Market to Lahori Gate and from Kutchery Chowk to Neela Gumbad was also reviewed.

Officials also discussed restoration of historic façades from Shah Alam Market to Rang Mahal Chowk, rehabilitation of Railway Station Chowk, and revival of the Misri Shah area.

The meeting reviewed the Nasser Bagh underground parking project and approved an enhanced exterior design for Pak Tea House to restore its traditional appearance.