Punjab Housing Secretary reviews Data Darbar expansion, Bhatti Chowk underpass progress

LAHORE, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 1st May, 2026) Punjab Housing Secretary Noor-ul-Amin Mengal on Friday visited the Data Darbar expansion project and the under-construction Bhatti Chowk underpass to review progress on ongoing development work.

During the visit, LDA Director General Tahir Farooq and TEPA Chief Engineer Iqrar Hussain briefed him on the status of various projects. They informed him that piling work for the Bhatti Chowk underpass is expected to be completed within the next three to four days, while excavation and retaining wall construction are also progressing rapidly. Overall, more than 40% of the underpass project has been completed.

The Housing Secretary directed officials to accelerate construction so that relief can be provided to citizens at the earliest.

Later, Mengal inspected different sections of the Data Darbar expansion project, reviewing progress on pedestrian walkways and the upgrading of surrounding building facades under the remodeling plan.

Officials shared that around 70% of the expansion work has been completed, with the remaining proceeding on schedule.

He emphasized strict adherence to safety measures and SOPs at all construction sites to ensure the protection of visitors and pedestrians.

Mengal noted that, on the directives of the Punjab Chief Minister, the project was launched to facilitate devotees and visitors to Data Darbar, improve traffic flow, and address long-standing public concerns. He added that Bhatti Chowk has long faced heavy traffic congestion, which is expected to ease significantly after completion of the underpass and related remodeling work.

Marking Labour Day, he also paid tribute to workers, acknowledging their vital role and dedication in delivering major development projects.