Data Darbar, Bhatti Chowk remodelling project transforms Lahore’s historic religious hub

By Wasif Mahmood

The Data Darbar and Bhatti Chowk remodelling project, along with the construction of the Hazrat Ali Hajveri Underpass, has transformed the area surrounding the historic and religious landmark in Lahore under an urban regeneration initiative.

The shrine of Hazrat Ali bin Usman Al-Hajveri, commonly known as Data Darbar, is one of the most important historical and religious sites in Pakistan, attracting millions of visitors from across the country. For years, the area surrounding Data Darbar had been facing serious challenges, including traffic congestion, inadequate parking facilities, pollution, dust, encroachments and sanitation issues, which had affected the overall appearance and functionality of the area.

The mega project for the remodelling, expansion and rehabilitation of Bhati Gate and the Data Darbar area was initiated by the Traffic Engineering and Planning Agency (TEPA) under a sustainable development model on the special directions of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and under the supervision of LDA Director General Tahir Farooq. The project was completed in less than six months at a total construction cost of Rs2.5 billion.

Talking to GNN TV, DG Farooq said a total of 22 kanals of land was acquired for the remodelling of roads and construction of the underpass around the Data Darbar expansion project. The scheme included widening of roads and upgrading basic infrastructure to improve traffic management and facilitate the movement of citizens and visitors.

He said to address traffic problems at Bhatti Chowk, the Hazrat Ali Hajveri Underpass was constructed at a cost of Rs1.062 billion. The three-lane underpass provides a signal-free corridor for traffic travelling from Azadi Chowk towards Kacheri, helping improve traffic flow in the area.

Illegal encroachments, including the Parinda Market in front of Data Darbar, were removed, and a modern parking area and state-of-the-art toilet blocks were constructed. These facilities have provided visitors with improved parking and essential amenities.

The remodelling of roads around Bhatti Chowk was accompanied by the development of green areas, seating spaces, and a Goshe-e-Mazdoor, while solar lights were installed throughout the area A drainage network was also laid along the roads to address longstanding drainage problems and improve the overall environment.

For the convenience of local and international visitors, spacious pedestrian pathways, walkways, seating areas, and parking facilities were developed. A modern pedestrian underpass was also constructed to provide safer and easier movement for pedestrians.

The outer portion of the veranda of Data Darbar was expanded to create a landscaped piazza, while a dedicated Hajveri Street was developed along the route from Gama Shah to Data Darbar. The façades of shops and other properties along the street were also upgraded.

The façades of old and deteriorated buildings surrounding Data Darbar, as well as those along Ravi Road and Circular Road, were renovated and improved. The restoration work has enhanced the overall appearance and urban landscape of the historic area.

Roads connecting Lower Mall, Bhatti Chowk, and Mohni Road were also widened and upgraded as part of the project. The improvements have contributed to smoother traffic flow and easier access for citizens and visitors.

Following completion of the project, the Data Darbar and Bhatti Chowk area has been transformed into a more organised, cleaner, and environmentally friendly urban space. Improvements and expansion of roads, surrounding neighbourhoods, and public facilities have given the entire area a significantly improved appearance.

The project provides improved mobility and facilities to more than 300,000 vehicles and pedestrians on a daily basis. The upgradation of the area has also contributed to a reduction in dirt, environmental pollution, and encroachments, while visitors to Data Darbar now have improved access to parking, pedestrian routes, sanitation and other basic facilities.