Lyallpur's legacy to come alive with double-deckers
Photo : File
The Punjab Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC), in collaboration with the city district administration, has launched a sightseeing bus service to highlight the city's rich art, culture, and heritage.
The initiative aims to attract not only locals but also foreign delegates and visitors from across Pakistan.
The PTDC has handed over two double-decker buses to the Faisalabad district administration. Deputy Commissioner Faisalabad Capt (retd) Nadeem Nasir stated that preparations are underway to operationalise the buses on three proposed routes: Canal Road (30km), Iqbal Stadium Road (19km) and D-Ground People's Colony (28km).
The Bagh-e-Jinnah (Boranwali Ground) will serve as the starting point for all routes.
To enhance tourist accessibility, Fridays have been designated for visits to the iconic Clock Tower intersection and its surrounding eight bazaars, coinciding with the weekly market closures to minimise traffic congestion.
A fare proposal for different routes has been submitted to PTDC, and the buses are expected to be operational within one or two weeks after resolving minor infrastructural and administrative challenges.
PTDC Operations Manager Zakir Ali revealed that infrastructure adjustments are in progress to accommodate the 18-foot-high double-decker buses.
Internet, PTCL, and NTCL cables are being relocated, electricity wires are being adjusted, and tree trimming along the routes is being conducted to ensure smooth operations.
Additionally, branding and painting of the buses, featuring historical landmarks and heritage sites, are being completed.
To engage the youth, PTDC plans to prioritise bookings for students from schools, colleges, and universities.
This effort aims to educate the younger generation about Faisalabad's history and cultural significance.
The buses will feature images of landmarks such as the Lyallpur Museum, Clock Tower, Kaiseri Gate, Gatwala Wildlife Park, Allama Iqbal Library, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan Auditorium and Company Bagh.
Commissioner Faisalabad Silwat Saeed described the initiative as part of a broader tourism campaign to rejuvenate the century-old history of Sandal Bar.
"Our 'Lyallpur Tourism' series is designed to revive the resilient past of the region and leave a lasting impression on the collective memory of Faisalabad's residents," she stated.
Officials said the sightseeing bus service is expected to serve as a gateway for residents and visitors to explore the city's cultural richness while fostering a deeper connection to its historical roots.