The Lahore Heritage Areas Revival Board (LHAR) has issued a clarification regarding recent reports and public concern over Ewing Hall located in Anarkali, Lahore, stating that the building will not be demolished and will instead be preserved and restored as part of its heritage protection mandate.
According to the LHAR statement, Ewing Hall was leased out in 1915 for use as student hostel accommodation and has remained unused for its original educational and hostel purpose since 2015.
The board stated that rental dues exceeding Rs. 10 crore (approximately Rs. 107 million) had accumulated over time despite repeated reminders and notices.
The statement further noted that the Board of Revenue, Punjab issued a formal show-cause notice in March 2026, providing all stakeholders an opportunity to present their position.
After hearings involving Forman Christian College and the Higher Education Department, the Member (Colonies) passed a legal order on April 27, 2026, resuming the land in favour of the provincial government.
LHAR emphasized that the decision was not abrupt, but the result of a prolonged legal process spanning several years. It also clarified that Ewing Hall will not be demolished, adding that the building will be restored in line with heritage conservation principles.
The board stated that both LHAR and the Walled City of Lahore Authority are focused on preservation and restoration of historic structures rather than their destruction, and described Ewing Hall as an important part of Lahore’s architectural heritage that will be maintained and rehabilitated.
It further added that the organization holds deep respect for Forman Christian College, its historical legacy, and the minority communities associated with the institution.
LHAR stressed that the matter is legal and administrative in nature and not directed against any community or institution, reiterating its openness to dialogue with all stakeholders.
