TAXILA: The multi-million beautification and facelift plan ofHassanabdalis in the final stages which would give the city a look of an international tourist city.
This was stated by Deputy Commissioner Attock Rao Atif Raza while talking to newsmen after reviewing the progress of the project.
Assistant Commissioner Ahsan Ali, Chief engineer municipal committee Zulfiqar Butt and other officials of building, roads and public health engineering department were also present on this occasion.
He added that the plan would not only help promote the soft image of the country but provide better tourist facilities to Sikh pilgrims who visit the city twice a year from across the world. He said the project would not only improve civic infrastructure and tourist facilities but also help project Pakistan’s soft and peaceful image internationally.
“Hassanabdalis one of the most sacred destinations for the Sikh community after Amritsar due to the presence of Gurdwara Sri Panja Sahib. The government is committed to giving the city a modern yet culturally rich look due to of its religious importance,” he stated.
Every year, thousands of Sikh devotees from countries including India, the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States visitHassanabdalto participate in major religious events, particularly the annual Baisakhi celebrations and the birth anniversary of the founder of Sikhism.
According to Mr Raza, the ongoing uplift plan covers a wide range of urban development and beautification measures aimed at creating a cleaner, more organized, and visually attractive city environment before the upcoming international pilgrimage season.
He said that a major component of the project involves concealment of utilities infrastructure. Officials believe the move will improve safety, reduce visual clutter, and give the city a modern metropolitan appearance.
“To further enhance the city’s entrance points, grand decorative gates are being constructed at key points leading intoHassanabdal, including a dedicated gateway for the Municipal Committee. Road networks are also being upgraded with modern tuff tiles to improve both durability and pedestrian convenience”, he added.
In addition, a food park is being established within the public square to provide hygienic and organised dining facilities for visitors, while a separate food street is under development at Lalarukh Park.
Published in Dawn, May 27th, 2026