BAHAWALPUR: The divisional administration has started construction of balconies over shops in the historic Shahi Bazaar inside Farid Gate, as part of a project aimed at preservation and restoration of the architectural heritage of the defunct Bahawalpur state.

Under the project costing over Rs442.6 million the defunct state’s architectural heritage and cultural legacy is being restored to beautify the Shahi Bazaar, Farid Gate and its trail up to the historic central mosque known as Jamia Masjid Al-Sadiq located in the heart of Bahawalpur city’s Chowk Bazaar.

The balconies are being constructed over the shops inside the historic bazaar as per their original design, in addition to the installation of modern lights.

Under the project, the electric wires in the bazaar would be laid underground, while coloured tuff tiles would be installed on footpaths for the convenience of pedestrians.

Commissioner Ms Musarrat Jabeen, who is supervising the project, has instructed the officials concerned to complete the renovation and restoration work at the earliest.

She told Dawn that the mega project was being implemented as per the vision of Chief MinisterMaryam Nawaz, who was keen to see its completion as soon as possible.

She said after the completion of the project, the historic bazaar will attract more visitors, including foreigners.

About the renovation of Masjid Al-Sadiq built by the late Nawab Sadiq V, she said the mosque had been neglected in the past and needed a major renovation work, which would also be started soon. She added that the engineers and the contractors of the project have been directed to expedite the restoration work.

Published in Dawn, January 15th, 2026