Wagah check-post expansion to be completed by Dec 25

By Our Correspondent
September 11, 2024
Pakistani paramilitary soldiers walk at a check post near the India and Pakistan border on the Pakistani side of the Wagah border. — AFP/File
Pakistani paramilitary soldiers walk at a check post near the India and Pakistan border on the Pakistani side of the Wagah border. — AFP/File

LAHORE:The Punjab government is giving a new look to the joint check post at Wagah border, it was learnt here Tuesday. Currently, work is in progress on the project under the supervision of NESPAK and expected to be completed by December 2025.

The ‘Expansion of Joint Check-Post Wagah’ project is aimed at enhancing security, facilities, and tourism infrastructure at the border crossing. The project's estimated cost is Rs3 billion, funded by the Punjab government, and the Works Department of Pakistan Rangers Punjab is acting as the Client.

Zargham Eshaq Khan, Managing Director of NESPAK, along with Rana Dawood, Executive Vice President of NESPAK, visited the expansion site of Wagah check post. During the visit. Khan inspected the site, assessing all potential risks related to Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE).

He inquired about the detailed working methodology and project progress. He emphasised the importance of identifying all critical activities and calculating zero float to ensure timely completion of the project.

He also directed a detailed radiography of the Pakistan flag to identify all potential risks associated with the relocation of the 410 feet high Pakistan pole at Wagah. Construction work started on June 10, 2024. The project's duration is 18 months, with a phased completion approach to ensure minimal disruption to border operations.

The expansion will increase spectator capacity from 8,000 to 24,000, featuring notable additions such as a state-of-the-art historical museum, modern waiting lounges with amenities for tourists and a green room for dignitaries.

The project involves relocating and increasing the height of the world's 5th tallest flagpole from 115 to 135 meters, making it the world's 3rd highest flagpole. The flagpole will be designed to withstand extreme weather conditions and will be illuminated at night, making it an iconic landmark. A total of 15 Rangers offices will be constructed, while Rangers barracks could accommodate 100 persons.