Lahore’s historic Neela Gumbad, one of the city’s busiest and most congested areas, is set for a major Rs. 2.45 billion redevelopment aimed at easing traffic, resolving parking shortages, and reviving its cultural value.
Located near King Edward Medical College, Punjab University, and Anarkali Bazaar, the site holds historical significance as the location of Sufi saint Sheikh Abdul Razzak Maki’s shrine, built in 1673 during Aurangzeb’s reign. Over the centuries, it has served as a mosque, garden, weapons depot, and later a cafeteria under British rule.
The Traffic Engineering and Planning Agency (TEPA) plans to redesign 16 kanals of land, demolishing 62 shops and nine houses to construct three underground basements. Two floors will be dedicated to parking—providing space for 374 cars and 790 motorcycles—while the first basement will accommodate relocated shops.
The project will feature pedestrian walkways, elevators, modern parking systems, CCTV surveillance, firefighting setups, and improved drainage. About 29 trees will be replanted, and utilities relocated.
According to TEPA Chief Engineer Iqrar Hussain, Rs. 300 million has already been released, and the 18-month project will restore Neela Gumbad as Lahore’s first fully pedestrian-friendly zone, blending modern facilities with historical preservation.
