Punjab moves to upgrade historic shrines to international standards

LAHORE: Punjab is stepping up efforts to promote religious tourism by upgrading its historic shrines with modern facilities, improved infrastructure and international-standard visitor services, Secretary and Chief Administrator Auqaf Punjab Dr. Ehsan Bhutta has said.

Dr. Bhutta said the provincial government was committed to preserving Pakistan’s rich spiritual, historical and cultural heritage while making important religious sites more accessible and attractive to domestic and international visitors.

He made these remarks during a visit to the shrines of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh Ali Hajveri (RA) and Hazrat Bibi Pak Daman (RA) in Lahore. He was accompanied by Director Projects Rafiq Noor Wattoo, XEN C&W Fahad Naveed and other officials.

During the visit, the Auqaf secretary offered Fateha at both sacred sites and prayed for Pakistan’s security, peace, prosperity, stability and continued progress. He also prayed for the welfare of the country’s people.

The visit included a detailed inspection of various sections of the shrines, where Dr. Bhutta reviewed ongoing development projects and assessed arrangements for pilgrims and devotees. Particular attention was given to cleanliness, security, maintenance, renovation and the overall quality of facilities available to visitors.

Directing officials to improve essential amenities, he stressed the need for clean drinking water, better sanitation, adequate lighting, well-maintained washrooms, comfortable seating and effective visitor guidance. He also called for stronger security arrangements in line with modern requirements and international best practices.

Dr. Bhutta emphasised that facilities must be designed to accommodate everyone, particularly senior citizens, women, children and persons with disabilities, ensuring a safe, comfortable and dignified experience for all visitors.

Highlighting the wider significance of these religious sites, he said the teachings of Sufi saints promote love, tolerance, peace, brotherhood, humanity and interfaith harmony. These values, he added, represent an invaluable part of Pakistan’s spiritual and cultural identity.

He noted that historic shrines are more than places of religious devotion, describing them as important symbols of the country’s Islamic heritage and cultural history. Their preservation and development could also help strengthen Pakistan’s international image, attract religious tourists and create broader socio-economic opportunities.

Reaffirming the Auqaf Department’s commitment, Dr. Bhutta said the objective was to transform Punjab’s prominent shrines into exemplary religious tourism destinations through modern infrastructure, professional management and effective monitoring without compromising their sacred character and historical traditions.

He directed officials to carry out development work with dedication and efficiency, making pilgrims’ safety, comfort and satisfaction the top priority.