Punjab government reviews Data Darbar upgrade

In a resolute endeavour to further elevate the spiritual magnificence and architectural splendour of Lahore's most revered shrine, Senior Member Board of Revenue (SMBR) Punjab, Nabeel Javed, chaired a high-level

LAHORE: In a resolute endeavour to further elevate the spiritual magnificence and architectural splendour of Lahore’s most revered shrine, Senior Member Board of Revenue (SMBR) Punjab, Nabeel Javed, chaired a high-level review meeting to meticulously assess the progress of the intricate calligraphic embellishment and comprehensive infrastructure development works at the shrine of Hazrat Ali Hajveri (RA), affectionately revered as Hazrat Data Gunj Bakhsh (RA).

Addressing the meeting, SMBR Nabeel Javed observed that Data Darbar is not merely a pre-eminent spiritual sanctuary but an enduring emblem of Punjab’s rich religious, historical and cultural legacy. He underscored that the preservation, restoration and progressive development of this sacred heritage remain among the foremost priorities of the provincial government. He further stated that, under the visionary leadership and explicit directives of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, every facet of the project is being executed with uncompromising transparency, exceptional craftsmanship and strict adherence to prescribed timelines. The provincial administration, he added, is fully galvanized to ensure unparalleled facilitation, robust security arrangements and maximum comfort for the millions of devotees expected to attend the forthcoming annual Urs.

The high-powered meeting was attended by Secretary/Chief Administrator Auqaf Punjab Dr. Ehsan Bhutta, Khateeb Data Darbar Mukhtar Nadeem, Administrator Data Darbar Muhammad Ali Khan, General Manager NESPAK Adil Nazeer, eminent calligraphy expert Irfan Qureshi, Assistant Commissioner City Rana Aamir, SDO Data Darbar Qaiser Munir, together with other senior administrative and technical officials, reflecting the government’s unwavering commitment to rigorous oversight and flawless execution of this prestigious heritage project.

During the comprehensive briefing, Secretary/Chief Administrator Auqaf Punjab Dr. Ehsan Bhutta reaffirmed the department’s unwavering resolve to translate the Chief Minister’s visionary agenda into tangible outcomes. Through his dynamic leadership, strategic foresight and relentless supervision, the Auqaf Department is advancing the development programme with remarkable momentum while setting new benchmarks in heritage conservation, institutional reforms and pilgrim facilitation.

Dr. Ehsan Bhutta stated, “The Auqaf Department remains steadfast in implementing the vision of the Chief Minister to transform the development of Data Darbar into a benchmark for heritage preservation and world-class public facilitation. Our paramount focus is on modernizing infrastructure, strengthening crowd management mechanisms and accomplishing the exquisite calligraphic restoration with impeccable precision and artistic excellence. These transformative initiatives embody our enduring commitment to safeguarding this sacred spiritual landmark with the reverence and dignity it rightfully deserves, while creating an enduring legacy for future generations.”

He further informed the meeting that mandatory weekly review meetings are being convened to meticulously monitor progress, remove bottlenecks and ensure that every component of the project is completed in accordance with the highest engineering and conservation standards. While the overall development programme is scheduled for completion by June 2027, all priority works required for the smooth conduct of the annual Urs will be completed beforehand. These include the Outer Piazza, Parking Facilities, Pedestrian Walkway, Underpass and Façade Enhancement Works being executed by TEPA and LDA. In addition, the Communication & Works (C&W) Department will complete the laying of the main courtyard slab before the Urs, ensuring uninterrupted movement, enhanced safety and improved convenience for devotees. Collectively, these timely interventions will provide a safe, seamless and spiritually enriching environment for the millions of pilgrims expected to attend the annual Urs of Hazrat Data Gunj Bakhsh (RA).