Punjab approves Pakistan’s first floating restaurant in Lahore Canal

In a move that has stirred both curiosity and criticism, the Punjab government has greenlit the construction of a ‘Canal Ship Restaurant’ — a floating dining space designed to attract visitors with scenic views and a unique experience.

The decision comes despite serious reservations from the provincial finance department and the Planning & Development (P&D) Board, which had flagged the project as an unnecessary and costly indulgence. 

A Price Tag That’s Making Waves 

Initially estimated at Rs 350 million, the project’s cost has now ballooned to Rs 540 million after design revisions and an evaluation by the National Engineering Services Pakistan (NESPAK). According to official documents, changes in construction plans and additional features have pushed the budget far beyond its original scope. 

Among the most debated expenses is the per-seat cost — a staggering Rs 4 million per diner. The finance department expressed strong opposition, arguing that public funds should be prioritized for essential services, not luxury dining experiences. They also questioned the need for a Rs 50 million bridge leading to the restaurant and a ‘selfie point’ worth over Rs 10 million. 

Who’s Footing the Bill? 

Despite these objections, the government has decided to proceed. The Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) will be responsible for executing the project, with the P&D Board arranging the supplementary funding. Officials have framed the venture as a tourism boost that could potentially pay off in the long run by attracting both local families and high-spending visitors. 

Read more: First ever floating restaurant in Lahore to take fine dining to new heights

The Allure of a Floating Restaurant 

Supporters of the scheme argue that the Canal Ship Restaurant could become a landmark attraction for Lahore, offering a rare combination of dining and waterfront leisure.

Set along the canal, the venue would help in permitting guests to enjoy panoramic views while dining aboard a stationary, ship-shaped structure — a concept already popular in tourist-friendly cities abroad. 

Masses who prefer to go for a special night out, families celebrating milestones, or tourists seeking Instagram-worthy backdrops, the project promises an experience that will not be given by any other province of Pakistan. The inclusion of landscaped surroundings, the selfie point, and decorative lighting is aimed at making it a highly impressive and photogenic hotspot. 

Public Reaction: Mixed Plates 

While some citizens welcome the idea as a refreshing addition to Punjab’s leisure options, others share the finance department’s concerns. With inflation biting and basic infrastructure needs still unmet in many areas, critics see the restaurant as lavish spending at the wrong time. 

Whether the Canal Ship Restaurant becomes a beloved local treasure or a true reflection of misplaced priorities, one thing is certain — it’s a project everyone in Punjab will be gazing at very closely.