Major Demolition and Land Retrieval in Data Darbar and Bhati Chowk Remodeling Project
A significant step has been taken in the ongoing remodeling and expansion project of Data Darbar and Bhati Chowk, as various government agencies have collaborated to address encroachments on public land. The Lahore Development Authority (LDA) and the Town and Country Planning Authority (TEPA) conducted a large-scale joint operation with the support of the district administration and the Auqaf Department. This initiative aimed to clear illegal structures and shops that had occupied government land in the vicinity of Data Darbar, one of Lahore’s most revered religious and historical sites.
The operation began early in the morning, with heavy machinery and police contingents deployed to ensure smooth execution. Several encroaching shops and unauthorized constructions were demolished, and the site was completely cleared. As a result, 16 kanals of state land were successfully retrieved, which is a crucial part of the broader remodeling plan for Bhati Chowk and Data Darbar.
Director General LDA Tahir Farooq visited the site in the early hours to oversee the progress of the operation. He was briefed by Chief Engineer TEPA Iqrar Hussain and LDA Director Enforcement Captain (R) Ahmad Faraz. According to the officials, the retrieved land has been integrated into the remodeling and expansion project, which is designed to improve traffic flow, enhance accessibility, and beautify the area surrounding this important landmark.
DG LDA issued immediate instructions to the teams to remove all debris from the site and directed the Project Director to begin development work on the cleared land without delay. This move is expected to accelerate the transformation of the area into a more organized and aesthetically pleasing space for visitors and residents alike.
Senior officials from LDA, TEPA, Auqaf Department, and the District Administration were present during the operation, highlighting the collaborative effort among different government bodies. Their presence underscored the importance of the project and the commitment to restoring public spaces for the benefit of the community.
The operation marks a critical milestone in the long-term vision for Data Darbar and Bhati Chowk. By reclaiming the land and initiating development work, authorities are taking concrete steps toward creating a more functional and visually appealing environment around these historic sites.
- The demolition of illegal structures was carried out with precision and care to minimize disruption to nearby areas.
- The retrieval of 16 kanals of land represents a major achievement in the project’s implementation phase.
- Officials emphasized the need for continued coordination between departments to ensure the success of the redevelopment efforts.
- The focus on improving traffic flow and accessibility reflects a broader strategy to enhance the visitor experience and promote tourism in the region.
- The involvement of multiple government agencies highlights the significance of the project and the shared responsibility in its execution.