The Punjab government has launched a major restoration initiative to conserve seven ancient forts located across the Cholistan Desert to protect the cultural heritage of Province of Punjab.
The project is declared by South Punjab Additional Chief Secretary Fuad Hashim Rabbani, is carrying a total budget of Rs 2.9 billion, with Rs 1.89 billion allocated in the first phase.
Historic Forts Set for Conservation Work
The historical forts which have been selected for restoration include
- Derawar
- Jamgarh
- Meergarh
- Maujgarh
- Deengarh
- Phulra
- Marot
Each a weather-beaten sentinel of the past, bearing testimony to the region’s vibrant history. Work is set to begin at Derawar Fort, the most iconic and prominent of them all, following the release of funds.
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Preserving Centuries of Heritage
“These forts are not just monuments; they are chapters of our history written in brick and stone,” claimed by Rabbani. “This initiative is considered to be the part of a broader cultural revival strategy that blends preservation with sustainable tourism.”
Many of these forts, some dating back centuries, have suffered extensive damage due to years of neglect, harsh desert winds, and a lack of conservation infrastructure. By restoring them, the government is intended to breathe new life into these structures and reintroduce them to future generations—not as ruins, but as living cultural landmarks.
Future Phases for More Forts
Looking ahead, the government is also making plans to restore 20 additional forts in the region as part of future phases. “We’re not stopping at seven. This is only the beginning of a larger movement to preserve our desert heritage,” Rabbani added.
Tourism and Economic Impact
The restoration of these forts is all about preserving bricks and mortar. Besides preserving, It’s all about
- Boosting tourism
- Creating local employment
- Injecting life into the rural economy
The project is anticipated to mesmerize the attention of local and international tourists, historians, and travel bloggers, turning these desert forts into key attractions on Pakistan’s cultural map.
Additional Tourism Development Across South Punjab
To complement this, the Punjab government has allocated Rs 4 billion for seven new tourism projects across South Punjab. These include:
• Rs 2 billion for the conservation of Lal Sohanra National Park in Bahawalpur
• Rs 400 million for developing recreational spaces at Fort Munro
• Rs 800 million for building a riverside park along the Indus in Dera Ghazi Khan
Together, these efforts are considered to unlock tourism potential of Southern Punjab support eco-tourism and create long-term opportunities for local businesses, guides, and artisans.