Islamabad, 29 May 2025: Heritage Push has emerged as a cornerstone of Punjab’s upcoming development plan, with the provincial government allocating Rs60 billion in the new budget to revive and enhance 60 key archaeological and heritage sites.
The initiative is being viewed as a strategic effort to boost cultural tourism and safeguard centuries-old historical assets.
The Heritage Push campaign also includes infrastructure upgrades and digital access to heritage, reflecting a broader vision to make cultural heritage more accessible and well-preserved for future generations.
Massive Budget Set to Reinvigorate Punjab’s Cultural Landscape
As part of its renewed commitment to cultural preservation, the Punjab government has earmarked a substantial sum in the forthcoming provincial budget to breathe new life into 60 selected archaeological sites.
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These include historical landmarks, religious shrines, and museums that embody the diverse heritage of Pakistan’s most populous province.
According to official sources, the funding will not only support the renovation of these sites but also enhance visitor facilities through better transport networks and tourist-friendly infrastructure.
One of the flagship components of this Heritage Push is the comprehensive restoration of the Lahore Museum, for which Rs6 billion has been allocated. Officials expect the refurbishment of the iconic museum to be completed within one year.
Taxila to Receive International Recognition
A major highlight of the heritage initiative is the declaration of Taxila as an International Heritage City. The city, steeped in Buddhist and Gandhara-era history, will undergo multi-phase development under a dedicated master plan.
In the initial phase, authorities are setting up a Project Management Unit and expanding the existing museum, while planning digital representations of ancient monuments and constructing a ceremonial gateway to welcome visitors.
Short-distance eco-friendly transport options like electric carts will connect various cultural trails across the site.
Medium-term targets involve developing tourist amenities, deepening archaeological research, and protecting sensitive excavation zones.
For the long term, the government aims to restore larger complexes such as Dharmarajika and Mohra Moradu, ensuring that the city reflects its full historical depth and global significance.
The ‘Heritage Push’ in Taxila is being seen as a model for future cultural tourism development across South Asia.
Broader Digital and Security Reforms Introduced
In tandem with physical restoration, a mobile application linking 160 historic locations—including spots in Murree has been launched to offer virtual tours, historical details, and navigation support for tourists.
This digital expansion is meant to complement the ‘Heritage Push’ and provide a platform for citizens and international visitors to engage with Punjab’s cultural wealth, even from afar.
To ensure better management and safety at these destinations, the government has initiated the creation of a dedicated Tourist Police Force. Recruitment of 600 personnel is currently underway, with 200 officers expected to be deployed in Murree, a major hill station with high footfall.
Of the roughly 800 heritage sites identified across the province many of which were neglected following administrative decentralisation under the 18th Constitutional Amendment 60 have been prioritised for immediate restoration.
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Authorities hope that this investment will encourage domestic tourism by offering culturally rich alternatives to international travel.
Officials have stated that PC-1 documentation for all projects is nearly finalized, and groundwork is expected to begin with the start of the new fiscal year on July 1, ensuring no bureaucratic delays stall this ambitious cultural revival plan.
Through this strategic Heritage Push, the Punjab government aims to not only protect its ancient treasures but also promote economic growth through sustainable tourism and cultural pride.
