The head of Aga Khan Foundations Heritage Department Luis Monrel called on Caretaker Chief Minister Punjab Mohsin Naqvi to discuss projects aimed at protecting and restoring historic buildings and places.
The CM expressed his appreciation for the foundations support and stated that efforts were being made to restore historical buildings and places throughout Punjab. He mentioned that the Walled City of Lahore Authority was already restoring several historical buildings, including Shalamar Gardens and Jahangirs Tomb. Additionally, the Qasim Bagh Fort in Multan would be restored to its original condition to attract more tourists. The CM noted that work was ongoing to restore other historical places, such as the Lahore Fort and Badshahi Masjid. The recent discovery of a thousands of years old city near Dardawar Fort was also deemed a significant achievement by Chief Secretary Zahid Akhtar Zaman. Monrel praised the provincial governments efforts to protect historical buildings and noted that the CM seemed fully committed to preserving ancient cultural heritage. The CEO of Aga Khan Foundation Pakistan Kh Tauseef and DG WCLA Kamran Lashari were also present.
Punjab Caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi presided over a meeting of the cabinet committee for eradication of smog at his office to review the current situation. The meeting included discussions with environmental and health experts, who extended suggestions to combat smog and its harmful effects. After detailed deliberations, CM Naqvi announced that smog-related restrictions were being withdrawn and markets, restaurants, institutions and businesses would remain open on Friday and Saturday. Additionally, winter vacation for educational institutions in Punjab will start on Dec 18. The CM directed the administration, LWMC and PHA to continue road cleaning and water sprinkling. He also ordered a crackdown on excessive smoke-emitting vehicles and tire-burning factories to ensure efforts are made to keep the air quality index low. The meeting was attended by provincial ministers including SM Tanvir, Dr Javed Akram, Mansoor Qadir, Amir Mir, Azfar Ali Nasir, Ibrahim Hasan Murad, Bilal Afzal, CS, IGP, chairman P&D, ACS (Home), secretaries and others.
