Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has instructed her officials that she wants to make Punjab an attractive province at the regional and international levels, so she has launched a Mega Tourist Project Punjab. She also directed that 170 places in Punjab be converted into tourism centers and these places be ecologically transformed, including 101 gurdwaras and 53 churches.

وزیر اعلیٰ پنجاب مریم نواز شریف نے اپنے حکام کو ہدایت کی ہے کہ وہ پنجاب کو علاقائی اور بین الاقوامی سطح پر ایک پرکشش صوبہ بنانا چاہتی ہیں اس لیے انہوں نے میگا ٹورسٹ پروجیکٹ پنجاب کا آغاز کیا ہے۔ انہوں نے یہ بھی ہدایت کی کہ پنجاب میں 170 مقامات کو سیاحتی مراکز میں تبدیل کیا جائے اور ان مقامات کو ماحولیاتی لحاظ سے تبدیل کیا جائے جن میں 101 گوردوارے اور 53 چرچ شامل ہیں۔

The vision of the Hon’ble Chief Minister has been turned into reality. A great effort has been made for five months to achieve this goal. This work has been implemented under the supervision of Punjab’s Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb. She has ensured the completion of these projects with dedication and commitment. The aim of this initiative is to put Punjab on the path of development and provide better facilities to all citizens.

Mega Tourist Project Punjab Authority

The Punjab government has decided to establish the Mega Tourist Project Punjab to protect and promote historical sites.

Objectives of the Authority:

• All historical, cultural, and tourism sites will come under this authority.
• The Mega Tourist Project Punjab 2024 will be implemented for the first time.
• Punjab’s first comprehensive tourism policy has been developed to protect culture and promote tourism.
• New tourism opportunities will be created for local and foreign tourists.

Annual Development Plan for Historical Places

The Punjab government has included a revival plan for all historical sites in its annual Mega Tourist Project Punjab development framework.

Key Features of the Plan:

• The work has been divided into three phases for systematic execution.
• The tendering process will start in July to ensure timely completion.
• The first phase will be completed in June, while the second and third phases will include the restoration of all remaining sites.
• 16 tourism projects, including Tourist Village, Bansara Gali, and parks, will be developed as part of this initiative.

Transforming Taxila and Changa Manga

The government has ambitious plans to convert Taxila into a tourist city and Changa Manga into a modern entertainment center like Switzerland.

Key Transformations:

• Taxila Museum will be upgraded with modern technology.
• Sadarshan Gallery will be built for Buddhist followers.
• 46 closed gurdwaras will be reopened to restore Sikh heritage.

Protection of Religious and Historical Sites

A structured plan has been developed to protect religious and historical sites of minority communities.

Implementation Strategies:

• Best road infrastructure and modern facilities will be provided.
• RS 400 million are Provided For This Work.
• The historic significance of Mall Road will be revived.

Division of Punjab into Nine Tourism Zones

For the first time, Punjab has been divided into nine tourism zones to boost historical and religious tourism.

Tourist Trails Include:

• Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s sites
• Cultural District (Mall Road, Lahore)
• Walled City of Lahore
• Gujranwala & Aimanabad
• Sikhism-related historical places
• Mughal-era monuments on GT Road
• Taxila Gate & Salt Range

Safari Train and Museum Renovation

The government plans to launch a Safari Train on major tourist trails.

Key Developments:

• Special transport and accommodation facilities will be provided for tourists.
• 17th-century Hiran Minar will be upgraded.
• Blue Dome will be expanded for better visitor experience.
• Rs. 240 million allocated for the renovation of Lahore Museum.

Preserving Punjab’s Thousand-Year History

With the cooperation of UNESCO, Punjab’s thousand-year history will be digitally preserved.

Digital Initiatives:

• Historical stories, civilization, Sufism, music, and folk tales will be digitally showcased.
• Qasim Bagh Fort restoration will be completed with newly released funds.
• A modern footpath will be built in Uch Sharif for the convenience of visitors.

Launch of a Modern Digital App for Tourists

A new tourism app will provide tourists with real-time information and services.

Features of the Digital App:

• Information on restaurants, transport, and tourist places will be available.
• Tourists will receive guidance and support at every step.
• Punjab’s tourism will be promoted on domestic and international levels.

Punjab – A Cultural and Religious Hub

Punjab will be made a center of attraction for global tourists by highlighting its rich culture and traditions.

Cultural and Religious Importance:

• Punjab has been home to Buddhism, Sikhism, Hinduism, and Islam for centuries.
• The province is a spiritual hub for followers of all religions.
• Shrines of Sufi saints and spiritual leaders attract visitors from all over the world.

Economic Benefits and Job Creation

Tourism development will significantly contribute to Punjab’s economy.

Economic Advantages:

• Punjab’s global image will improve.
• Tourism-based businesses will flourish.
• Employment opportunities will be created for locals.
• The culture of Punjab will be presented to the world, enhancing international recognition.

Appreciation for the Tourism Development Team

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has congratulated the entire team involved in making this vision a reality.

Special Acknowledgment:

• Special appreciation for Senior Minister Punjab Marriyum Aurangzeb for her leadership.
• Recognition of the hard work, dedication, and passion of the entire team.
• A commitment to complete these projects with greater speed and efficiency.

Conclusion

The Punjab government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, has launched a Mega Tourist Project Punjab to promote cultural heritage and economic growth. The Magnificent Punjab project will revive historical sites, develop tourist destinations, and enhance infrastructure to make Punjab a leading tourist hub. These efforts will not only boost the economy but also ensure that Punjab’s rich history and traditions remain alive for future generations. This comprehensive plan will transform Punjab into an international tourism hotspot, strengthening its position on the global stage.