CM eyes Punjab as tourist hub

170 historical sites to be transformed into tourist attractions

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LAHORE:

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has announced the launch of a tourism project, "Magnificent Punjab," aimed at transforming the province into a regional and international hub for history, culture, and tourism.

As part of the initiative, 170 historical sites, including 101 gurdwaras and 53 churches, will be developed into world-class tourist destinations. The mapping of these sites has already been completed.

The project has been in the works for five months under the leadership of Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, who approved key proposals.

The Punjab Tourism and Heritage Authority is set to be established to oversee all tourism and heritage-related institutions.

A new tourism policy and the Punjab Tourism and Heritage Authority Act 2024 have also been prepared to ensure structured development.

CM Maryam Nawaz has allocated funds in the Annual Development Plan for the restoration of Punjab's heritage sites in three phases, with work starting in July.

The first phase is expected to be completed by June, while the second and third phases will follow.

Immediate PC-I approval has been directed for 16 tourism projects, including Bansara Gali, Tourist Village, and various parks.

Among the major initiatives, Taxila will be developed into an international "tourist city", while Chhanga Manga will be transformed into a modern entertainment center modeled after Switzerland.

The Taxila Museum will be upgraded with modern display centres, a Siddhartha Gallery, and new places of worship for Buddhist visitors. 46 inactive gurdwaras will also be restored to attract Sikh pilgrims.

CM Maryam Nawaz emphasized the protection of minority religious sites and the upgradation of infrastructure to provide world-class facilities for tourists.

The Dilkush Lahore project has been allocated Rs400 million to preserve Mall Road's historical significance.

For the first time, Punjab has been divided into nine tourist regions under the "Tourist Trails" initiative, covering key historical and cultural sites.

A safari train will run along these trails, and tourists will receive special discounts through partnerships with the private sector.

The 17th-century Hiran Minar is also set for restoration, and the Blue Dome will be expanded. Around Rs240 million has been approved to modernize the 131-year-old Lahore Museum.

With UNESCO's support, Punjab's 1,000-year history will be preserved using digital storytelling. Tourists will experience Punjab's culture, folk tales, music, art and Sufi heritage through interactive technology.

A digital tourism app has also been developed to provide travel information and services directly to visitors.

CM Maryam Nawaz emphasised that promoting tourism will boost Punjab's economy and enhance Pakistan's global image.

"Nations that forget their history, culture, and heroes disappear. We are bringing Punjab's rich heritage to the world," she stated.

She also praised Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb and her team for their dedication, expressing confidence in the successful execution of the project.