Bibi Pakdaman shrine to reopen this week

Official statement quotes about 97% of work has been completed

LAHORE:

The historic Bibi Pakdaman shrine is set to reopen its doors to devotees before December 31 after renovation and expansion.

According to an official statement, about 97% of the work has been completed.

During a visit to the shrine, Caretaker Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi inspected the ongoing finishing touches on the main structure and domes. He directed the officials concerned to prioritise the completion of a widened pathway surrounding the shrine.

He stressed the need for dedicated space for lamps and aesthetic lighting arrangements in the central chamber.

Read  Gold worth Rs12.5m stolen from Lal Qalandar’s shrine

Meanwhile, he Lahore Ring Road Southern Loop-3 project is on track for completion in the coming months as 60 per cent of the work has been completed. The project valued at over Rs17 billion spans 8km and consists of three lanes.

Speaking to the media after visiting the project site from Adda Plot to Maraka and receiving a briefing at the FWO camp office, Naqvi acknowledged weather-related challenges, particularly fog, affecting motorway operations and causing traffic congestion, saying the issues would be resolved without allowing an increase in project costs.

Discussing environmental concerns, he acknowledged the need for favourable conditions for artificial rain to combat smog.

He affirmed the government’s commitment to taking necessary measures for a sustainable solution.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 27^th, 2023.