LAHORE: The Punjab government has allocated Rs1.7 billion for the upgradation and beautification of two historic bazaars in Lahore—Shah Alam and Ichhra.
According to officials, the district administration has completed all necessary preparations and the Finance Department has approved the funds. Work on the project will begin after the removal of encroachments.
The development plan includes improvement of the sewage system, street paving, and installation of new streetlights. Shah Alam Bazaar will get the largest share of the funds, with Rs900 million allocated for its renovation.
In the first phase, entrance gates will be built for both bazaars, while dangling wires and poles will be removed. The electrical system will be modernized with underground wiring.
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Other upgrades will include new sidewalks, benches, tuff tiles, plantations, and uniform shop signage to give the markets a cleaner and more attractive look.
Officials said Shah Alam and Ichhra have been chosen as pilot projects to revive the cultural and historical value of Lahore’s markets. Once completed, similar projects will be launched in other city bazaars.
Meanwhile, Punjab government is also setting up 15 Sahulat On-the-Go bazaars in Lahore to provide essential items at affordable prices.
Secretary Price Control and Commodities Management Department Punjab Dr Ehsan Bhutta said the initiative, launched under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif and Chief Secretary Punjab Zahid Akhtar Zaman, aims to support daily wage earners and low-income families by ensuring access to affordable goods and controlling profiteering.
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He shared this while visiting the site of a Sahulat Bazaar in Gulshan Ravi. General Manager Sahulat Bazaar Authority Roshan Zamir and other officials accompanied him.
Officials informed that seven sites are already under development, including Gulshan Ravi, Shadman, Madar-e-Millat Road Township, Faisal Town Kothey Pind, Manga Mandi Multan Road, and Raiwind near Sabzi Mandi.
Dr Bhutta directed the authority to ensure quality construction with strong materials, regular testing, and safety measures such as bamboo barriers around electricity poles and greenery to improve the environment.
