Deputy Commissioner Attock Mudassir Ahmed Shah has directed all executing departments to complete the Rs210 million Hassanabdal beautification project before the birth anniversary of Baba Guru Nanak in November, emphasizing that construction quality must not be compromised.
The directive came during a review meeting and site inspection in Hassanabdal, where the deputy commissioner assessed progress on the Punjab government’s urban renewal initiative. The project is designed to upgrade civic infrastructure, improve facilities for Sikh pilgrims, and strengthen Hassanabdal’s position as a major religious tourism destination.
Focus on religious tourism and civic development
Assistant Commissioner Hassanabdal Attique Ullah Tareen, Assistant Commissioner Attock Arif Qureshi, and officials from the district council, revenue, buildings, and roads departments attended the review meeting.
Mudassir Ahmed Shah said Hassanabdal, home to the historic Gurdwara Sri Panja Sahib, holds significant religious importance and should offer modern facilities to the thousands of Sikh pilgrims who visit Pakistan each year.
He instructed contractors and executing agencies to avoid unnecessary delays and ensure the project is completed before the international Sikh pilgrimage in November.
Major infrastructure upgrades underway
Officials briefed the deputy commissioner that the Rs210 million project includes underground relocation of electricity and telecommunication networks, construction of new entrance gates, installation of tuff-tile roads and pedestrian walkways, and façade improvements to commercial and residential buildings.
The scheme also includes a dedicated parking area for pilgrims and tourists, redevelopment of the public square outside Gurdwara Sri Panja Sahib with landscaping and public amenities, and the establishment of a food park.
Authorities are also developing a food street at Lalarukh Park while restoring its natural ponds, springs, and recreational facilities to improve the area’s environmental and tourism appeal.
Officials expect long-term benefits
The deputy commissioner directed all relevant departments to maintain close coordination to remove implementation hurdles and accelerate work.
Assistant Commissioner Attique Ullah Tareen said the project is expected to improve Hassanabdal’s civic infrastructure, support religious tourism, boost the local economy, and enhance Pakistan’s image by providing better facilities for international pilgrims visiting one of Sikhism’s holiest sites.
Also Read : Shahid Afridi Pays Tribute to Former Afghanistan Pacer Shapoor Zadran After His Death
Today's E-Paper