Data Darbar expansion project set to transform Lahore’s historic heart

Construction work on the Data Darbar Expansion Project and the Bhatti Chowk Underpass is progressing rapidly under the directions of Punjab Chief Minister

Construction work on the Data Darbar Expansion Project and the Bhatti Chowk Underpass is progressing rapidly under the directions of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, marking a major step towards improving traffic flow, preserving heritage areas, and modernising Lahore’s urban infrastructure.

The ambitious initiative aims to ease congestion in one of the busiest parts of the provincial capital, where thousands of commuters, traders, and devotees pass through daily. Authorities believe the project will significantly improve accessibility to the shrine and surrounding commercial areas while enhancing the city’s overall appearance.

As part of the rehabilitation and expansion plan for Data Darbar, Bhatti Chowk, Mohni Road and adjacent localities, compensation payments have been distributed among residents and property owners affected by land acquisition. More than Rs600 million worth of compensation cheques were handed over to 234 owners of acquired properties during a ceremony held at Lahore Town Hall.

Punjab Minister for Housing and Urban Development Bilal Yasin said the project reflects the government’s commitment to developing the Walled City and inner Lahore on modern lines while preserving its cultural and religious heritage. He added that the expansion of Data Darbar and improvement of surrounding road infrastructure would bring visible improvements in traffic movement and public convenience.

The Bhatti Chowk Underpass is expected to remove major traffic bottlenecks on routes connecting Circular Road, Ravi Road and the old city areas. Officials say the project will reduce travel time and provide smoother movement for both residents and visitors.

Data Darbar holds immense historical and spiritual significance in Pakistan. It is the shrine of the revered 11th-century Sufi saint Hazrat Ali Hajveri, popularly known as Data Ganj Bakhsh, who migrated from Ghazni and settled in Lahore where he preached peace, tolerance, spirituality and service to humanity.

His famous Persian work, “Kashf al-Mahjub”, is regarded as one of the earliest and most influential books on Islamic mysticism and Sufism in South Asia. The shrine attracts millions of devotees and visitors every year from across Pakistan and abroad, making it one of the largest and most visited Sufi shrines in South Asia.

Urban planners believe the expansion project will not only improve facilities for pilgrims but also contribute to the preservation and promotion of Lahore’s historic identity. Wider roads, improved pedestrian access, better traffic management and upgraded public spaces are expected to create a more organised and visitor-friendly environment around the shrine.

Meanwhile, the Punjab government has also accelerated pre-monsoon preparations across the province. A large-scale desilting campaign is underway to clean drains, sewerage lines and nullahs to minimise the risk of urban flooding during the rainy season. Authorities are using digital monitoring systems and real-time reporting tools to supervise field operations and ensure timely completion of the work.