Data Darbar uplift work should be completed by March 31: Dr Ehsan

LAHORE: Secretary and Chief Administrator Auqaf Punjab Dr Ehsan Bhutta has directed all relevant departments to ensure the timely completion of development works outside the Data Darbar Shrine area by March 31, 2026. He issued these instructions during his visit to the shrine, where he conducted a detailed review of the ongoing development projects.

Dr Ehsan Bhutta stated that the initiative is being carried out under the vision of Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and the guidance of Chief Minister Punjab, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, while the Chief Secretary Punjab Zahid Akhtar Zaman is fully supporting and personally overseeing all development work to ensure timely and high-quality execution.

He also made an on-site review visit in which Chief Engineer TEPA Iqrar Hussain, Director Projects Auqaf Rafiq Noor Wattoo, NESPAK DGM Adil Raza, Administrator Data Darbar Muhammad Ali Khan, XEN Auqaf Muhammad Qaiser, and other concerned officials were present.

During the visit, Dr Ehsan Bhutta highlighted that TEPA is responsible for the comprehensive development of the shrine’s external infrastructure, including the Piazza, sitting areas, a modern parking facility opposite the road, pedestrian pathways paved with tuff tiles, the pedestrian underpass, and the main entrance of the shrine.

He emphasised the need to accelerate the pace of work without compromising quality and instructed that vigorous and continuous monitoring be conducted for all project components to ensure completion in line with approved standards. Furthermore, he directed the Communication & Works Department to commence work on its assigned portions inside the shrine. He also instructed the Deputy Commissioner and Assistant Commissioner (City) to expedite the land acquisition process to facilitate smooth progress.

Dr Ehsan Bhutta reiterated that the overarching goal of the project is to provide safe, convenient, and modern facilities for devotees visiting the shrine. He urged all departments to work in close coordination, emphasising that timely execution, quality assurance, and adherence to approved standards remain the top priority.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026