Walled city restoration under way in Rawalpindi on Punjab Govt directives

Comprehensive measures are under way for the restoration, beautification and improvement of civic facilities in Rawalpindi’s walled city, in line with directives of the Punjab Government

RAWALPINDI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Apr, 2026) Comprehensive measures are under way for the restoration, beautification and improvement of civic facilities in Rawalpindi’s walled city, in line with directives of the Punjab Government.

The progress was reviewed at a meeting chaired by Deputy Commissioner Rawalpindi, Dr Hassan Waqar Cheema, on Tuesday. Additional Deputy Commissioner (Headquarters) Abdul Rehman Khan, along with officials of the Archaeology Department and other relevant agencies, attended the meeting.

The participants were informed that restoration and development work in the walled city was being carried out in accordance with the special instructions of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif and the provincial government’s policy, with a focus on preserving historical heritage while ensuring provision of modern amenities.

The deputy commissioner directed the departments concerned, particularly gas, electricity, telecommunication and other utility agencies, to remove overhead poles and installations in phases and shift the system underground in the old city areas to preserve the locality’s aesthetics, safety and historical character.

He further instructed that renovation of historic buildings and old bazaars in the walled city be completed on a priority basis through a coordinated strategy.

Maintaining the original identity of the old city while equipping it with modern facilities remained the district administration’s foremost priority, he added.

Later, the district administration team, accompanied by archaeology officials, visited various historical sites in the inner city, including Purana Qila, Jamia Masjid Road, Sarafa Bazaar and urdu Bazaar.

During the visit, a detailed review of the condition of historical buildings, bazaars, sanitation, encroachments and utility installations was carried out. The officials concerned were directed to ensure immediate measures for preservation, cleanliness and improvement of basic facilities in these areas while maintaining their historical significance, so as to provide a better environment for residents and visitors alike.

The meeting also reviewed steps related to sanitation, drainage, traffic management and removal of encroachments, with instructions issued to the relevant departments to enhance coordination and ensure prompt, practical measures.

It was reiterated at the conclusion of the meeting that all available resources would be utilised to restore and beautify the walled city and to provide improved facilities to the public in line with the provincial government’s directives.