TAXILA: The Punjab government has launched a multi-million project for restoration of 10 ancient sites, including eight revered by Buddhists.

Talking to newsmen here on Wednesday, department of archaeology and museum deputy director Mohammad Iqbal Manj said the development plan would be completed in three years in which restoration, face lift and preservation work would be carried out in different sites belonging to Taxila valley civilisation of historical and religious importance.

He said these sites included Sirkap, Dharmarajika Stupa, Mohra Moradu Stupa, Bhir Mound site, Bahalar Stupa, Mankiala Stupa, Kalawan Stupa and Giri archeological remains.

He said face lift and provision of different facilities especially gift shops, cafeteria and public toilets facilities would be provided at two different sites including Mughal garden Wah and Taxila Museum.

Responding to a question, Mr Iqbal said the government had released a sum of Rs7 million for execution of work during this fiscal year under which Mughal Garden Wah would be preserved and restored, besides constructing walkways, developing lawns and children area.

He said provision of public facilities, especially development of parking areas, construction of cafeterias, public toilets, gift shops and booking counters would also be carried out during the current fiscal year.

Seven held in robbery case

Police in Attock have arrested seven suspects in a robbery case in which ornaments and cash worth over Rs10 million were looted from two jewellers in Hazro on November 9.

District Police Officer (DPO) Rana Shoaib Mehmood said police have made a major breakthrough in the case by arresting seven suspects, including the mastermind of the crime who turned out to be a cousin of one of the victims.

He was talking to newsmen after holding an open court at the TMA hall in Hassanabdal.

Subdivisional Police Officer Raja Fayyazul Haq was also present.

The DPO said police were taking all possible steps to combat crime, adding after an effective strategy by the police crime was decreasing in the area.

He said open court interactions would help improve public confidence in the police and check crime through citizens’ cooperation.

He said the police were organising open courts at the tehsil, city and police station level to resolve public problems at their doorsteps.

Earlier, the DPO listened to public applicants and issued directives for their timely disposal.

Published in Dawn, December 25th, 2021