The Punjab government has unveiled a broad plan to bring back the original names of Lahore’s old neighborhoods, roads.
Lahore has long been shaped by multiple civilizations, with traces of Muslim, Hindu, Sikh, and British rule still visible across the city. Over the years, political, administrative, and social shifts led to the renaming of many well-known places, leaving several original identities pushed to the margins.
Among the examples cited are Krishan Nagar, which became Islampura, Dharampura, which was renamed Mustafabad, and Ram Gali, which became Rehman Gali. Major public spaces and roads also saw similar changes, including Mall Road being renamed Shahrah-e-Quaid-e-Azam, Mohan Lal Bazaar becoming Urdu Bazaar, and Abbott Road being changed to Ghaznavi Road.
Other prominent sites also underwent changes, such as Lahore Stadium becoming Gaddafi Stadium, Gol Bagh being renamed Nasir Bagh, and Minto Park being turned into Iqbal Park. However, officials note that several of these renamed places never fully replaced the old names in popular public use.
The Punjab government has not yet released a final list of names to be restored. However, officials say consultations are underway with experts, public representatives, and relevant institutions, and the process will move ahead gradually to ensure both heritage preservation and social harmony.