Secretary Auqaf reviews progress of development works at Lahore shrines

LAHORE, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 20th Jun, 2026) Secretary/Chief Administrator Auqaf Punjab Dr. Ehsan Bhutta has directed all relevant officers to ensure timely completion of ongoing development projects at shrines and religious heritage sites, stressing that facilitating devotees and preserving Punjab’s spiritual heritage remain among the Punjab government’s top priorities.

During a visit to various Auqaf-managed sites in Lahore, Dr. Bhutta reviewed progress on key projects being executed under the Annual Development Programme (ADP). He said Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif was closely monitoring the progress of shrine development schemes and had directed that all projects be completed within the stipulated timeframe. He added that Chief Secretary Punjab Zahid Akhtar Zaman was also personally overseeing the pace and quality of development works at shrines across the province.

The secretary paid special attention to the Phase-II Master Expansion Plan at the shrine of Hazrat Bibi Pakdaman (RA), where infrastructure is being upgraded to accommodate the growing number of devotees visiting the shrine. He observed that the project would improve crowd management, accessibility, security arrangements and visitor facilitation, providing a safer and more comfortable environment for pilgrims.

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During the visit, Dr. Bhutta also inspected development works at the shrines of Shrine of Hazrat Shah Kamal Ichra (RA), Shrine of Hazrat Mian Wadda (RA), Shrine of Hazrat Abu al-Mualli (RA), Shrine of Hazrat Hassan Shah Wali (RA) and the historic conservation site of Shrine of Hazrat Shah Chiragh (RA), where he reviewed recently completed works.

He also visited the Shah Kamal Auqaf Colony and inspected facilities at the local park, including recreational equipment installed for children and families. He directed officials to improve the park environment by planting fresh grass and upgrading walking and jogging tracks. Residents and children present at the site appreciated the renovation of the park.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Bhutta said the province’s shrines remained centres of faith, spirituality, tolerance and interfaith harmony, attracting thousands of devotees from across the country. He directed officers and contractors to maintain high standards of quality, transparency and efficiency in all development projects and reaffirmed the Auqaf Department’s commitment to preserving Punjab’s religious and cultural heritage while providing modern facilities for devotees.