WCLA conserving Mughal-era tombs in Shahdara

LAHORE:The Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA) is spearheading the conservation of the historic Shahdara Complex, a renowned Mughal-era architectural masterpiece along the River Ravi.

The site includes the revered tombs of Emperor Jahangir, Empress Noor Jahan, and Asif Jah, alongside the Akbari Sarai Mosque and the Bagh-e-Dilkusha. To ensure the historical essence of the monument, the WCLA authorities has constituted an Advisory Committee for valuable advice in conservation of ongoing and future works. The committee comprises of a technical background team from Archaeology Department Punjab, AKTC and the WCLA.

According to WCLA Deputy Director Conservation Mubashar Hassan, the WCLA Conservation wing has also framed different new conservation schemes recently that includes the preservation and restoration of Jahangir’s Tomb, Noor Jahan Tomb, restoration of missing walkways, conservation of Daak Bangla, Pindi Gate and Hujras of Akbari Sarai and flooring of Asif Jah’s Tomb, are the part of financial year 2025.

The details of conservation works include consolidation of structures, crack repairs, dome repair, inlay works, replacement of red sand stone of facad, reproduction of missing floors, fresco lining works and Ghalib Kari works. WCLA Director General Kamran Lashari said the Shahdara Complex stood as a testament to Mughal grandeur. We were dedicated to restoring its historic brilliance and preserving this legacy for future generations." He said through these efforts, the WCLA aims at fostering a deeper appreciation for Pakistan's rich history, ensuring the site remains a cherished cultural asset.