WCLA completes Kashmiri Gate conservation

LAHORE:The Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA) has completed the conservation project of the Kashmiri Gate, which is one of the 13 gates in the walled city of Lahore. The estimate cost spent on this project was Rs11.47 million. WCLA initiated the project on 7th November, 2023.

According to history, the gate gets its name as it faces the direction towards Kashmir. Historically, traders and merchants coming from Kashmir entered Lahore from this gate. According to the officials of WCLA, the objective of conserving Kashmiri Gate was to preserve the heritage of the walled city so that it stays intact for the historical exploration of the region. The Director Conservation WCLA Najam ul Saqib explained that in the conservation project, the process of surface rendering has been done on the gate. ‘The structure of the gate has been consolidated. Similarly, Fresco-lining on the gate has been renovated to give the actual outlook of the gate. He said the floor around the gate has been repaired for the smooth access of the visitors. The cemented fortification has been done to the walls and roof of the gate.

Apart from this, commercial activity around the gate has been ceased, and all the encroachment construction has been removed. Moreover, the Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA) has also worked on the electricity supply to the region. For which, it has taken some significant steps to provide electricity for the Kashmiri Gate's illumination and the commercial activity inside the bazaar,’ he added.

Before the renovation of the gate, the doors were not functional. However, since the project has been completed, the doors of Kashmiri Gate have been made functional to open and close the passage. About the renovation of Kashmiri Gate, Tania Qureshi, Director Media and Marketing WCLA, said, ‘Our efforts on the Kashmiri Gate have focused on retaining its authentic structure and appearance. Through our renovation initiative, we have enhanced its accessibility for visitors by halting commercial activities, allowing the gate's original character to be fully restored. In conserving the Kashmiri Gate and other landmarks of the walled city, we are successfully preserving the cultural heritage of our nation.’

Kamran Lashari, Director General of the Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA), said, ‘Recognising the historical importance of the gates of the walled city, our institution prioritizes their preservation. Kashmiri Gate, which once facilitated vibrant commercial exchanges, stands out as a heritage landmark. The Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA) is dedicated to ensuring that this gate's historical essence is preserved for visitors and future generations to explore’.