Islamabad: Secretary Auqaf Punjab, Dr. Ehsan Bhutta on Sunday revealed that all sacred shrines across the province were being modernized with state-of-the-art facilities, combining traditional decor with technology, separate female and male community kitchens, hygienic washrooms, CCTV security and organized management for devotees’ ease.
Speaking on the PTV News program, he said that sacred shrines across Punjab were being transformed with state-of-the-art amenities while preserving their historic and spiritual heritage, offering devotees modern comfort without compromising their traditional charm.
In Lahore, prominent shrines including Data Darbar (Hazrat Ali Hujwiri Shrine), Bibi Pak Daman, Shrine of Hazrat Mian Mir, Shrine of Shah Jamal, Shrine of Shah Hussain, Bulleh Shah Shrine and Shrine of Baba Farid are undergoing comprehensive upgrades under the visionary instructions of the Punjab Chief Minister, with billions of rupees invested to enhance infrastructure, accessibility and security.
The renovations feature widened roads, well-maintained washrooms, separate community kitchens for men and women with displayed rate lists, underpasses, advanced CCTV surveillance and professional management, ensuring that devotees can perform their religious duties in safety, peace and spiritual serenity, he said, adding, traditional decorations are being preserved and enhanced with modern lighting and technology to maintain the cultural and spiritual essence of these historic sites.
Bhutta added that additional facilities such as proper shoe racks, directional signage, cleanliness drives and crowd management systems are being implemented to provide a seamless experience for visitors.
Addressing devotees’ concerns, he emphasized that any complaints regarding hygiene, security, or management will be addressed immediately through a dedicated mechanism, reflecting the CM’s commitment to making these sacred sites safe, welcoming, and spiritually uplifting for all.
In addition to shrine restoration, the project aims to upgrade the entire pilgrim trail by developing gateways, parking areas, a tourist facilitation centre, restrooms, ablution and drinking water facilities, while improving road surfacing, installing directional signage, implementing underground sewerage and drainage, providing sheltered sitting areas and illuminating the route to ensure a safe, comfortable and convenient experience for all visitors, he added.
He also praised the landmark announcement by CM Maryam Nawaz to provide stipends for 65,000 mosque imams across Punjab, highlighting it as a significant step in supporting religious leaders and strengthening the province’s spiritual framework.