Punjab govt initiates Rs2.9bn project to restore historic forts in Cholistan

MULTAN: The Punjab government has launched an ambitious Rs 2.9 billion project aimed at conserving more than 20 historical forts located across the Cholistan Desert.

The first phase of this restoration initiative will focus on the rehabilitation of the iconic Derawar Fort in Bahawalpur, with a budget of Rs 1.80 billion allocated for its two-year restoration project.

Additional Chief Secretary of South Punjab, Fuad Hashim Rabbani, expressed his gratitude to Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif for providing the necessary funding. The project aims to restore the historical forts to their original grandeur, preserving their cultural and architectural significance.

As part of this initiative, other forts in the Cholistan region, including Jamgarh, Meergarh, Moujgarh, Deengarh, Phulara, and Marot, will also undergo restoration work. The restoration effort will be carried out in phases, with the aim of preserving the region's rich cultural heritage.

The conservation of these forts is expected to boost tourism in the region, attracting visitors interested in the historical and architectural legacy of the Cholistan Desert.

The Punjab government is optimistic that the project will not only protect these national treasures but also contribute to the local economy through increased tourism.