Data Darbar, Bibi Pak Daman renovation work gains pace

LAHORE: Development and restoration work at two of Lahore’s prominent religious landmarks, Data Darbar and Bibi Pak Daman, is moving ahead rapidly, with the Punjab Auqaf Department setting firm deadlines for completion of ongoing projects.

Secretary/Chief Administrator Auqaf Punjab Dr Ehsan Bhutta inspected various construction sites at both shrines and directed officials and contractors to accelerate work while maintaining quality, safety and structural standards.

During his visit to Data Darbar, Dr Bhutta offered Fateha and prayed for the safety, stability and prosperity of the country. He then reviewed reconstruction, plastering, alignment and marble work across the shrine complex and Ghulam Gardish.

Officials briefed him on marble cladding, the fabrication of large and small jalis, and the preparation of plain marble at the factory.

The secretary also inspected development work in the Sama Hall, basement and courtyard, being carried out according to NESPAK designs. The works include a retaining wall, retrofitting, dismantling and reinforcement binding for the upper veranda.

One of the major concerns discussed during the inspection was the removal of debris from the central hall. Flooring has been dismantled to a depth of around 35 feet, and Dr Bhutta ordered officials to clear the debris quickly so foundation and column construction could begin without further delay.

Deadlines Set for Key Works

Officials said shuttering for the front and side sections of Zildar Road had been completed, with concreting expected to finish within two weeks. Manual dismantling up to the central shrine was also underway and was expected to be completed in about 20 days.

The possibility of carrying out calligraphy, plain marble, illumination and fresco work inside the main dome simultaneously was also discussed.

Dr Bhutta inspected column retrofitting, the front Piazza, external parking, pedestrian underpass and washrooms being developed under TEPA. He directed that the remaining works be completed urgently, with relevant works targeted for completion by August 31.

Officials also informed him that the permanent escalator for the pedestrian underpass was being imported and would take additional time to arrive.

Bibi Pak Daman Work Also Accelerated

At Bibi Pak Daman, Dr Bhutta offered Fateha before inspecting ongoing development projects.

Officials told him that shuttering for the male musafirkhana had been completed and concreting would be finished within two days. Excavation for the female musafirkhana had also begun.

The secretary ordered officials to increase the pace of construction and directed that the relevant works, including concreting, be completed within one month.

Dr Bhutta said restoration and development of historic shrines were important not only for religious purposes but also for preserving Pakistan’s spiritual, historical and cultural heritage.

He stressed that every project must meet high standards of quality, structural strength, aesthetics, transparency and timely completion.

He added that under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s “Magnificent Punjab” vision, sacred sites were being upgraded with modern, secure and devotee-friendly facilities.

Continuous monitoring of the projects is also being carried out under the supervision of Punjab Chief Secretary Zahid Akhtar Zaman, officials said.