CM Maryam Nawaz Launches “Magnificent Punjab” Mega Tourism Project to Boost Heritage and Tourism

Punjab’s Chief Minister, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, has announced the launch of the “Magnificent Punjab” mega tourism project, aimed at transforming Punjab into a regional and international hub for history, culture, and tourism. As part of this historic initiative, 170 heritage sites across Punjab, including 101 gurdwaras and 53 churches, will be converted into world-class tourist attractions.

Under the leadership of Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb, a five-month effort has brought the Chief Minister’s vision to life. Maryam Aurangzeb has approved all the proposed projects, and the creation of the Punjab Tourism and Heritage Authority has been decided. The summary for formal approval has been sent to the Cabinet, and all institutions related to history, heritage, and tourism will be placed under the authority. To ensure the success of the project, the Punjab Tourism and Heritage Authority Act 2024 has been enacted for the first time.

The first-ever comprehensive tourism policy for Punjab has also been finalized. The Chief Minister has included a plan for the restoration of historic sites in three phases in the Annual Development Program. Tendering for the project will begin in July, with the first phase of restoration set to be completed by June. The restoration of other historic sites will be completed in the second and third phases.

A major announcement was made to turn the historic city of Taxila into an international “Tourist City.” The approval has also been granted for the development of Changa Manga into a modern recreational hub, modeled after Switzerland. Taxila’s museum will be upgraded, and new display centers with modern technology will be constructed. New worship spaces and galleries named after Siddhartha will also be built in Taxila for the comfort of Buddhist followers.

Immediate preparation of the PC-1 for 16 tourism projects has been instructed, including the construction of Bansra Gali, tourist villages, and parks. The restoration of 46 inactive gurdwaras for the Sikh community has also been approved. A comprehensive system for the protection of religious and historical sites for minority communities will be established. The development of world-class roads, infrastructure, and modern facilities for tourism will also be undertaken.

The “Attractive Lahore” project has been allocated 400 million rupees, with instructions for the preservation and immediate completion of the history of Mall Road. For the first time, Punjab has been divided into nine tourist zones under the “Tourism Trails” initiative, which includes: Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the Cultural District of Mall Road Lahore, the Walled City of Lahore, Gujranwala, Aimanabad, and historical Sikh sites in Lahore, Mughal-era landmarks along the Grand Trunk (GT) Road, Salt Range, Bhatti Gate, and Taxali Gate.

Safari trains will operate along the “Tourism Trails,” and transportation facilities will be provided, with private sector involvement to offer special discounts to tourists. The restoration survey of the 17th-century historical Heron Minar has been completed, and the expansion of the Blue Dome has also been decided. The 131-year-old Lahore Museum will be transformed into a modern museum with a 240 million rupee investment.

With UNESCO’s support, Punjab’s thousand-year history will be preserved, and the province’s culture, history, and traditions will be promoted. Through digital technology, tourists will be able to listen to and view stories about Punjab’s history, culture, folk tales, music, heroes, art, culture, and the works of Sufi poets.

Tendering for the restoration of the historic Qasim Bagh Fort has been completed, and funds have been released. Plans are also in place to create pedestrian pathways and facilities for visitors at Uch Sharif. A digital app has been developed to provide all information, guidance, and services related to tourism directly on mobile phones.

In her remarks, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif expressed her commitment to making Punjab the best tourism destination. She said, “We will make the whole world a guest of Punjab, showcasing the cultural diversity of the land of five rivers. Punjab has been home to many religions, eras, and cultures, and the preservation of our history, culture, and heritage is a responsibility for future generations.”

She added, “Punjab, once called the granary of the subcontinent, has also been a place of spiritual solace for followers of various religions. Promoting tourism will contribute to economic growth and enhance the global image of Punjab and Pakistan. A nation that forgets its history, culture, heroes, and traditions fades away—through this project, we are bringing Punjab’s rich heritage and culture to the world.”

The Chief Minister commended Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb and all the team members involved in this initiative. She expressed confidence that, with the same enthusiasm, dedication, and speed that brought this mega plan together, the projects will be completed successfully.