LAHORE: “All development work at Data Darbar shrine must be completed within the stipulated time,” said Secretary Auqaf Punjab Dr Ehsan Bhutta during his visit to the Data Darbar shrine and its affiliated hospital, where he reviewed the progress of ongoing development activities. Dr Ehsan Bhutta inspected various components of the mega uplift project and expressed satisfaction over the coordinated efforts of all concerned departments. He directed officers to ensure high-quality workmanship, strict adherence to timelines, and effective inter-departmental coordination so that the project is completed without delay. Dr Ehsan Bhutta stated that this mega development project is being closely monitored by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz, and Chief Secretary Punjab Zahid Akhtar Zaman, reflecting the government’s strong commitment to the timely completion of the project. He was briefed that the Traffic Engineering and Planning Agency (TEPA) and the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) are jointly carrying out the removal of the frontal wall for extension purposes, and that the work is progressing at a rapid pace. He was also informed that tile work on four out of eight small tombs is currently underway, while work on the remaining tombs will commence shortly. The Secretary Auqaf emphasised that adequate facilities for Zahireen have been ensured on both the male and female sides of the shrine, and that construction activities are being managed in a way that does not hinder devotees’ visits or religious practices. He further disclosed that development and demolition work has also started in the outer areas from Bhatti Gate up to Karbala Gamay Shah, which is an important component of the overall plan aimed at improving infrastructure, traffic management, and the surrounding environment of the historic shrine. Dr Ehsan Bhutta added that the development work outside Data Darbar will be completed by March 2025, and all departments have been directed to maintain efficiency, pace, and quality standards. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026