Punjab government has completed restoration of 23 historic buildings and 76 shops along Murree’s iconic Mall Road as part of a Rs 555 million beautification initiative expected to finish by June 2026.
The project transforms Pakistan’s 167-year-old colonial-era commercial hub while preserving its historic character and boosting tourism infrastructure.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz launched the restoration in March 2025, assigning the Walled City of Lahore Authority to execute the comprehensive facelift under strict heritage preservation standards.
Historic Restoration Project
Mall Road has served as Murree’s cultural and commercial heart since 1857, originally constructed during British colonial rule and known initially as Jinnah Road.
The cultural hub for over 167 years has long needed careful restoration due to rampant commercialization and neglect.
The restoration forms part of the broader Murree Tourism Development Plan spearheaded by PML-N President Nawaz Sharif to reestablish Murree as Pakistan’s premier hill station destination.
167-Year-Old Commercial Hub
The main road, Jinnah Road, originally known as Mall Road and still commonly referred to as “The Mall”, was built in 1857.
The area developed as the commercial center for British troops stationed in Murree, which served as a sanatorium and summer retreat for colonial officials.
Today, Mall Road attracts millions of domestic and international tourists annually seeking scenic mountain views, shopping, and cultural experiences.
Project Scope and Investment
The Walled City Lahore Authority is executing the “Beautification and Facade Uplifting of Mall Road Murree” project at an estimated cost of Rs 554.88 million.
CM Maryam Nawaz pledged the historical beauty of Murree would be fully restored within a year through WCLA collaboration with experts, local community, and administration.
Rs555 Million Beautification Initiative
Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb heads the steering committee, stating the government is committed to restoring Murree’s historical charm while ensuring improved tourist facilities.
WCLA Director General Kamran Lashari emphasized Mall Road Murree is a treasure trove of history and natural beauty, stating commitment to ensuring this iconic landmark continues to inspire visitors from around the world.
The project represents the first major restoration of Mall Road’s historic architecture since Pakistan’s independence in 1947.
Restoration Progress
Restoration of 23 buildings and 76 shops on Mall Road has been completed as of February 2026, representing significant progress toward the June 2026 completion target.
The completed structures showcase restoration to original architectural styles while incorporating modern safety and accessibility standards.
Buildings and Shops Restored
The restoration plan preserves Mall Road’s historic charm by revamping old buildings and footpaths while maintaining original architectural style.
Uniform appearance, signs, and colour schemes for old buildings on Mall Road were implemented.
The restored buildings feature period-appropriate facades, traditional color palettes, and historically accurate architectural details including colonial-era windows, cornices, and rooflines.
Illegal Structures Removed
Illegal three-storey structures on Mall Road, Hall Road and Imtiaz Shaheed Road have been removed, with reclaimed land converted into parks and green spaces.
The demolition of unauthorized constructions obstructing natural scenery opens views of Murree’s surrounding pine forests and mountain vistas.
High-rise hotel buildings obstructing the natural scenery of Mall Road were removed and hotels from GPO Chowk relocated to alternative locations.
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Design and Heritage Preservation
The project prioritizes authentic heritage conservation while integrating visitor amenities and modern infrastructure supporting increased tourism.
WCLA applies expertise gained from Lahore Walled City restoration to preserve Murree’s colonial-era architectural legacy.
Architectural Standards
Strict regulations enforce uniform advertisement board design, and historically styled electric lights preserve the area’s traditional aesthetic.
Historical footpaths are being revived, and shops and buildings along Mall Road restored in traditional architectural style.
The restoration removes visual clutter from decades of unregulated commercial development, revealing the original colonial town planning aesthetic.
Modern Amenities Integration
A modern hospital will be constructed to improve healthcare facilities in the region.
Tourists will benefit from upgraded public washrooms strategically placed along the pedestrian corridor.
The project focuses on enhancing cleanliness and improving infrastructure to provide maximum convenience to tourists.
Improved drainage systems, underground utility lines, and enhanced street lighting complement the historic aesthetic while meeting modern urban standards.
Complementary Tourism Projects
A multi-billion-rupee development package was approved at a special meeting chaired by PML-N President Nawaz Sharif and CM Maryam Nawaz, reviewing the comprehensive Murree Development Plan to transform the hill station into a modern, eco-friendly tourist destination.
A Glass Train project is being introduced to enhance the tourism experience, offering panoramic views of Murree’s scenic mountain landscapes.
CM approved 14 tourism schemes for Kotli Sattian including a new chairlift, eco-friendly glamping pod village and resort, Punjab’s first modern paragliding centre and sky glass bridge.
Construction and rehabilitation of 70 roads in Murree and adjoining areas have been finalized, with 120 more roads under development in the second phase.
A multi-storey parking plaza accommodating 1,500 vehicles addresses chronic traffic congestion during peak tourist seasons.
Economic and Tourism Impact
The restoration positions Murree to recapture its status as Pakistan’s premier domestic tourism destination while attracting international heritage tourism.
The initiative develops Murree into a premier tourist destination for Punjab and Pakistan, transforming it into a global tourism hub.
Restored historic buildings create opportunities for boutique hotels, cafes, artisan shops, and cultural centers celebrating Murree’s heritage.
The Rs 4.5 billion Murree project will transform the hill station into a world-class tourist destination, showcasing Pakistan’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage while focusing on sustainable development that preserves Murree’s natural environment.
The enhanced tourism infrastructure generates employment for local residents in hospitality, retail, transportation, and service sectors.
The Murree Tourism Development Plan is expected to revitalize the hill station, ensuring it regains its status as Pakistan’s premier tourist destination while maintaining its rich cultural and historical identity.
The project demonstrates Punjab government’s commitment to heritage conservation as an economic development strategy, balancing preservation with modernization to create sustainable tourism models.
Completion by June 2026 will establish Murree as a model for heritage-led tourism development applicable to other Pakistani hill stations and historic towns.