LAHORE:
The historic Akbari Gate of Lahore Fort is expected to be reopened to the public next month after remaining closed for nearly two centuries.
Built during the reign of Mughal Emperor Akbar, the gate was closed during British rule.
A restoration project launched in 2023 has revived the historic structure for tourism and public activities.
Located on the eastern side of the fort, the Akbari Gate had been constructed to connect the Walled City with the royal citadel. It served as an entry point for citizens, traders and royal delegations.
An official said the gate was among the earliest structures of the fort. He said the fort was subsequently expanded towards west, with additional gates constructed during different periods.
He added that the British government had closed the gate as part of its administrative policy to demonstrate its authority.
The restoration has been completed through collaboration between the Punjab Walled Cities and Heritage Areas Authority, the French Development Agency (AFD) and Aga Khan Cultural Service Pakistan (AKCSP).
During the work, layers of plaster added during the Sikh and British periods were removed, revealing historic fresco paintings, including images of Hindu deities. Measures have been taken to preserve these paintings.
Project Engineer Yasir Ali said prolonged closure had left the massive wooden main gate jammed and unbalanced.
It has been repaired and made functional again.
He said an access route and ramp had been constructed from the Ram Market side to improve public access. Excavations in the courtyard also revealed an old drainage system, which has been incorporated into the restoration project.
Under the plan, a ticketing booth will be set up on the ground floor, while the first floor will house a gallery featuring historical photographs and documents. A CCTV monitoring room will also be set up. Facilities including a wheelchair ramp and parking space will also be provided to visitors.
An official, Owais Raza, said the gate would be opened to the public in December, allowing visitors to enter the fort through the historic route.
He said work was also under way to preserve other historic structures and adapt them for public use, including galleries, cafes and other facilities.
