WCLA conserving Lahore Fort Akbari Gate

LAHORE:The Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA) is working on the conservation project of Akbari Gate, located at the eastern end of Lahore Fort, in collaboration with Aga Khan Cultural Service Pakistan (AKCS-P) & Agence Francaise de Development (AFD).

The Akbari Gate, located at the eastern end of Lahore Fort, was constructed in 1566 CE by Mughal Emperor Akbar as a crucial entrance to the ancient Walled City, connecting the royal enclave with the urban centre. This significant two-storey structure exemplifies a blend of military architecture and aesthetic design, characterised by heavy semi-octagonal bastions, battlements, machicolations, and a sturdy timber gate.

In July 2022, an agreement between the Agence Francaise de Development (AFD) and the GoPunj was signed. As per the agreement, the general objective of the “Heritage and Urban Regeneration: Tourism Development in Lahore Fort and its Buffer Zone” (HURL) project is to contribute to tourism development through heritage conservation, new facilities, and urban regeneration in the Lahore Fort. Amongst the first few components of the extensive project is the complete rehabilitation of the Akbari Gate. Following the site handover in 2023 to AKCS-P, a comprehensive documentation process commenced, including condition assessments and emergency stabilization.

The current phase focuses on removing inappropriate interventions, structural consolidation, and surface conservation. Investigations revealed multiple cycles of repairs and prolonged vacancy. It is proposed that the structure be preserved based on historical evidence and made accessible to the public. The Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA) has also preserved other Buildings within Lahore fort, Walled City Lahore and in other parts of the city, following its objective of preservation of architectural & cultural heritage.

Moreover, the Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA) has been organising several tours and events at heritage sites. At Lahore Fort, WCLA has been organising "History by Night" which takes place on every Saturday and Sunday, and it is attended by hundreds of people. Kamran Lashari, Director General, Walled City of Lahore Authority, said, "Akbari Gate stands as one of the most significant and historically rich entrances to the Lahore Fort, offering a profound glimpse into the cultural and Royal heritage of our region. “We firmly believe that the preservation of heritage sites should not be confined solely to the restoration and structural consolidation of these landmarks. Instead, it is equally important to ensure their accessibility and appeal to the public. Recognising this, we have undertaken comprehensive efforts to create engaging opportunities that invite both local and international tourists to explore and appreciate these cultural treasures. To achieve this, we have developed a variety of initiatives, including guided tours and interactive events, designed to make these sites more engaging and educational for visitors.

“By fostering accessibility, engagement, and innovation in heritage tourism, we aim to preserve our shared history while promoting cultural appreciation and economic growth through sustainable tourism practices."