Punjab to form Tourism & Heritage Authority

Lahore: The Punjab Government has decided to form a Tourism and Heritage Authority in the province.

The summary of the Punjab Tourism and Heritage Authority has been sent to the cabinet for formal approval. All institutions related to history, heritage, and tourism will be under the authority. 170 historical sites of Punjab will be converted into world-class tourist centers. Mapping of the sites included in the list has been completed, including 101 gurdwaras and 53 churches.

Senior Provincial Minister of Punjab Marriyum Aurangzeb, as the concerned minister, approved all the proposed projects. To ensure the success of the project, the Punjab Tourism and Heritage Authority Act 2024 has also been implemented for the first time, while the first comprehensive tourist policy has also been prepared.

Chief Minister of Punjab Maryam Nawaz has included the three-phase restoration plan of Punjab’s historical sites in the annual development program and directed to start tendering in July. The first phase will start in June, while the restoration of other historical sites will be completed in the second and third phases.

The immediate preparation of PC-1 for tourism projects has been directed. The construction of Bansara Gali, a Tourist Village, and 16 parks is also included. The historic city of Taxila will be made an international ‘tourist city,’ while it has also been approved to make Changa Manga a modern entertainment center on the model of Switzerland.

Places of worship and new galleries named Siddhartha will also be built in Taxila for the convenience of Buddhist followers.

Approval has also been given to restore 46 inactive gurdwaras for the convenience of the Sikh community. Excellent roads will be constructed for the promotion of tourism, and complete upgradation of infrastructure and modern facilities of world standard will be provided.

Chief Minister Maryam says that through this program for the revival of tourism, Punjab will be made a better tourism destination. The whole world will be made a guest of Punjab and the cultural colors of the land of five rivers will be shown.

She stated that rivers of many religions, eras, and cultures have flowed in Punjab. Protecting our history, culture, and heritage is a trust for future generations. Promoting tourism will help in economic development. The global image of Punjab and Pakistan will shine with new glory in the world.