LHAR Board vows to preserve Ewing Hall, denies demolition concerns

In a statement issued on Sunday, the board said Ewing Hall had originally been leased in 1915 for use as student hostel accommodation. However, the building has remained

LAHORE: The Lahore Heritage Areas Revival (LHAR) Board has moved to address growing public concerns regarding the future of Ewing Hall in Lahore’s historic Anarkali area, assuring citizens that the landmark building will be restored and preserved rather than demolished.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the board said Ewing Hall had originally been leased in 1915 for use as student hostel accommodation. However, the building has remained unused for its intended educational purpose since 2015. During this period, unpaid rent accumulated to more than Rs107 million despite repeated notices and reminders from authorities.

According to the LHAR Board, the Board of Revenue Punjab initiated legal proceedings earlier this year by issuing a show-cause notice in March 2026. After hearing the positions of both Forman Christian College and the Higher Education Department, the Member (Colonies) passed an order on April 27, 2026, returning control of the property to the provincial government.

The board emphasized that the decision was reached through a lengthy legal process and was not taken abruptly. Officials stressed that the action was based on legal and administrative grounds rather than any intention to target a particular institution or community.

Responding to fears about the building’s future, the LHAR Board categorically stated that Ewing Hall will not be torn down. Instead, it plans to restore the structure to its original architectural character as part of ongoing efforts to protect Lahore’s cultural and historical heritage.

The board highlighted its commitment, along with the Walled City of Lahore Authority, to conserving historic sites across the city. It described Ewing Hall as an important part of Lahore’s heritage whose historical significance would be respected and safeguarded.

The statement also acknowledged the longstanding contributions of Forman Christian College and recognized the emotional attachment many people, particularly members of minority communities, have with the institution. The board reiterated its willingness to engage with all stakeholders and maintain open dialogue while ensuring the preservation of the historic building.