LAHORE, Jul 19 (APP):Pakistan Railways has finalized comprehensive master plans for the restoration, conservation and modernization of the historic Lahore and Taxila Railway Stations, following the special interest of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and the directives of Railways Minister Muhammad Hanif Abbasi. Pakistan Railways spokesperson said on Sunday, the Punjab government would provide full support for the implementation of projects on the instructions of the Chief Minister Punjab. The …
Railways finalizes master plans for upgradation of Lahore, Taxila railway stations
LAHORE, Jul 19 (APP):Pakistan Railways has finalized comprehensive master plans for the restoration,
conservation and modernization of the historic Lahore and Taxila Railway Stations,
following the special interest of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and the
directives of Railways Minister Muhammad Hanif Abbasi.
Pakistan Railways spokesperson said on Sunday, the Punjab government would
provide full support for the implementation of projects on the instructions of the
Chief Minister Punjab. The initiative aims to preserve the country’s railway heritage
while introducing world-class passenger facilities and transforming the stations into
modern, secure and tourism-friendly public spaces.
The restoration plans focus on protecting the original architectural character, historical
identity and cultural significance of both stations while upgrading infrastructure,
improving passenger amenities and creating a welcoming public environment.
The Lahore Railway Station project includes structural strengthening of the heritage
building, repair of damaged sections, waterproofing, roof rehabilitation, drainage
improvement, installation of heritage-style lighting and uniform signage, refurbishment
of the main concourse and reservation office, establishment of a modern family lounge,
redesigned information desk, dedicated history wall, restoration of platforms, comfortable
seating and modern kiosks. All work would be carried out without compromising the
station’s historic character, he added.
For Taxila Railway Station, the master plan includes pedestrian-friendly walkways,
organized parking, modern public washrooms, restoration of the historic ticket office,
adaptive reuse of the old goods warehouse as a café and restaurant, Taxila stone
paving, Victorian-style lighting, landscaped public spaces, restoration of historic
verandahs and platforms, and heritage displays highlighting the rich civilization and
cultural legacy of Taxila.
Pakistan Railways said both projects would follow internationally recognized heritage
conservation principles. Unauthorized additions made over the years would be removed
to restore the original architectural appearance, while improved accessibility, landscaping,
lighting, safety measures and modern passenger facilities would be introduced.
The projects would also promote adaptive reuse of historic railway buildings, allowing
them to serve cultural, public and tourism-related purposes while preserving their
heritage value.
Railways Minister Muhammad Hanif Abbasi said that Lahore and Taxila Railway Stations
were not merely transport facilities but important symbols of Pakistan’s historical, cultural
and national heritage.
He thanked Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for her support, saying the restoration would
preserve the stations’ historic identity while providing passengers with modern, safe and
comfortable facilities.
The minister added that Pakistan Railways was undertaking phased restoration of historic
railway stations across the country to preserve railway heritage, promote tourism, enhance
passenger services and modernize railway infrastructure in line with international standards.
He said the landmark projects would help protect Pakistan’s historical heritage while
transforming the two stations into major centers of cultural identity, tourism and urban
development for future generations.
