South Punjab’s Hidden Treasures Set for Grand Revival

Atif Ismail

Multan: Under the golden glow of Multan’s ancient skyline, where centuries-old shrines and crumbling gates whisper stories of forgotten grandeur, a quiet transformation is underway. 

The Walled City Authority (WCA) has embarked on an ambitious journey to breathe new life into South Punjab’s historic heartlands — reviving lost heritage, reconnecting communities with their roots, and turning culture into a catalyst for economic growth.

For the first time in Pakistan’s history, a coordinated effort is being made to restore iconic landmarks across Multan and Bahawalpur, not merely as relics of the past but as engines of sustainable tourism and local livelihood. The initiative signals a new chapter in Pakistan’s approach to heritage management — one that values preservation and prosperity in equal measure.

Restoring Multan’s Historic Soul

Known as the “City of Saints,” Multan’s heritage is a tapestry of Sufi shrines, Mughal architecture, and ancient fortresses. To preserve this legacy, the WCA is executing two flagship projects — the Haram Gate Heritage Trail and the Qila Kohna Qasim Bagh Conservation and Renovation Mega Project.

Both undertakings aim to restore the city’s centuries-old urban fabric and enhance its potential as a cultural tourism hub. The Haram Gate Trail reconnects visitors with Multan’s living history through rejuvenated streets, restored monuments, and public spaces that blend tradition with modern amenities. 

Meanwhile, the Qila Kohna Qasim Bagh project focuses on conserving the historic fort’s walls, gates, and adjoining neighborhoods — safeguarding one of South Asia’s oldest continuously inhabited urban sites.

Bahawalpur’s Renaissance Through Heritage

In Bahawalpur, another jewel of South Punjab’s cultural crown, the WCA is leading restoration work at the Wali Muhammad Mosque, the Jain Temple, and the historic Freed Gate. Alongside these efforts, a new Food Street is being developed to highlight local cuisine, hospitality, and the region’s vibrant traditions.

The revival plan envisions more than architectural conservation — it seeks to reimagine Bahawalpur as a living museum of history, art, and culture. Once completed, the projects are expected to draw both domestic and foreign tourists, revitalize local businesses, and strengthen the city’s identity as a heritage destination.

A People-Centered Approach

Assistant Director of the Walled City Project, Umair Ghazanfar, says the Authority’s efforts go beyond preservation. “We are introducing guided tours, hosting cultural events, organizing the annual ‘Dekh Lo Multan’ festival, and arranging photo walks to engage citizens and celebrate the region’s cultural richness,” he said.

By highlighting local crafts, folk music, and traditional art forms, the WCA aims to create livelihood opportunities while strengthening community bonds. The initiative also borrows inspiration from international models — such as Egypt and neighboring countries — where heritage tourism has successfully transformed cultural assets into engines of prosperity.

“By preserving our past, we can build our future,” Ghazanfar remarked, underscoring that heritage tourism, if managed with vision and coordination, can play a transformative role in Pakistan’s economy.

Tapping Into Global Tourism Potential

Globally, tourism contributes around 10 percent of world GDP, generating over $10 trillion annually. Analysts note that Pakistan — with its vast cultural and historical wealth, from Indus Valley ruins to Mughal-era monuments and living craft traditions — has immense untapped potential in this sector.

Through its South Punjab initiatives, the WCA hopes to unlock this potential by positioning heritage as a dynamic economic resource. The combination of conservation, cultural festivals, and community engagement could establish a sustainable model that benefits artisans, entrepreneurs, and local communities alike.

Heritage as a Path to Prosperity

The WCA’s initiatives in Multan and Bahawalpur demonstrate how heritage can serve as both a symbol of identity and a tool for inclusive growth. By merging cultural revival with economic empowerment, the Authority is setting a precedent for how Pakistan can turn its historical assets into a source of pride and progress.

As restoration work continues, South Punjab stands on the threshold of a cultural renaissance — one where the echoes of the past are not merely preserved but allowed to shape a more vibrant, resilient, and prosperous future. 

If sustained with strategic vision and community participation, the WCA’s efforts could well become a model for heritage-led development across Pakistan.

The Feature Report was released by APP on October 19, 2025.