Lahore: The Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA) has initiated a PKR 1.73 billion project to rehabilitate Bhatti Gate. This project is funded by the World Bank under the Punjab Tourism Economic Growth Programme, and it is set to be completed by 2025.
The World Bank is funding a significant rehabilitation project for Bhatti Gate through the Punjab Tourism Economic Growth Programme (PTEGP), with conservation work expected to be completed by 2025. The project will be executed in two phases: the first phase focuses on the rehabilitation of house facades, followed by infrastructure improvements.
According to details shared by the Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA) on Thursday, the project will rehabilitate 1,038 properties, with nearly 190 buildings already completed. Among these, 35 buildings are recognized for their high architectural merit, and all 194 heritage properties in the area will be restored.
WCLA Director of Marketing and Tourism, Tania Qureshi, highlighted the unique historical importance of Bhatti Gate. Bhatti gate was once known as the “Chelsea of Lahore” due to its affluent residents and the literary figures who lived there.
The rehabilitation effort focuses on restoring house facades and improving infrastructure. So far, 190 of the 1,038 properties in the area have been completed. Bhatti Gate, historically referred to as the “Chelsea of Lahore,” has been home to many notable figures, including Allama Iqbal and music composer Khawaja Khurshid Anwar.
WCLA plans to transform Bhatti Gate into a tourist hub, similar to the revitalized Delhi Gate. This transformation will include converting vacated police station rooms into a tourist center and craft bazaar. A major challenge in this restoration project has been removing unauthorized structures, which even included relocating a police station.
Restoration efforts at Bhatti Gate include structural repairs, woodwork, fresco lining, and installing lighting to illuminate the historic gate.
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