Historic Clock Tower bazaars to get pedestrian-friendly makeover

FAISALABAD:

Under an urban regeneration project, the Metropolitan Corporation (MC) Faisalabad has launched a comprehensive plan to refurbish the colonial-era eight bazaars surrounding the historic Clock Tower, a landmark of the city popularly known as the Manchester of Pakistan.

The initiative aims to promote modern "walk, shop and eat" concepts, similar to those in major international cities, and has been widely welcomed by citizens and private-sector town planners.

Sharing details of the project, Chief Officer MC Murtaza Malik said that Katchery Bazaar is being developed as a pilot project.

A central green belt will be created, featuring small benches, greenery and water elements, including two to three fountains at various points. This will be followed by a dedicated footpath, the main road, paver blocks, and then shop fronts.

"The idea is to create a true 'walk and shop' environment," Malik explained.

"All billboards will follow a single, uniform design. Individual or irregular signage will not be allowed."

He added that the standardized design has been prepared by NESPAK in consultation with the MC, with room for future improvements.

As part of the facelift, the facades of existing buildings are also being upgraded.

Damaged or unattractive exteriors are being repaired to ensure a uniform and visually appealing look.

Plastering, window repairs, and other necessary works are included in the project cost, which has already commenced in full swing. Historical buildings within the project area will be conserved in their original form, with a special team from the Archaeology Department hired for this purpose.

Addressing concerns about congestion, Malik clarified that the entire area will be completely traffic-free.

"No cars or motorcycles will be allowed to enter. This is purely a pedestrian zone based on a walk, shop and eat concept," he said.

A parking plaza is being planned nearby, and the approval process is underway. For internal mobility, electric shuttle cars will operate within the bazaar area.

Their tendering has been completed, and a few vehicles are already operating on a rental basis until official procurement is finalized.

"This is an internationally developed concept, and Faisalabad will be among the first cities in Punjab to implement it," Malik noted. "It is similar to electric shuttle systems seen in developed countries."

After the completion of Katchery Bazaar, work will begin on Jhang Bazaar.

Malik said that FESCO has already started its work there, while WASA will soon address drainage issues.

"All eight bazaars cannot be excavated at the same time. We will proceed gradually, one bazaar after another, so that traders and the business community are not unduly affected."