Taxila to be developed into global heritage city under CM’s vision: Marriyum Aurangzeb

LAHORE - Senior Punjab Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb chaired a high-level meeting during her visit to Taxila to review the phased development of the ancient city into a modern urban centre and a world-renowned heritage tourism destination. The initiative, aligned with the vision of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, aims to transform Taxila into a global “City of Civilizations” through a comprehensive preservation and development plan. “The project to elevate Taxila as a global heritage city is being fast-tracked under the direction of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz,” said Marriyum Aurangzeb.

“This is a historic step toward preserving Pakistan’s rich cultural and archaeological legacy.” To spearhead the effort, the establishment of a dedicated Taxila Heritage Authority has been approved, with immediate orders to formulate a detailed action plan. The minister directed that the Taxila Arts and Crafts Village be revived within 15 days and instructed officials to prepare the first draft of a world-class tourism policy without delay.



The meeting also resolved to eliminate encroachments and finalize the city’s first heritage management plan. A legal framework and authority are being developed to ensure smooth implementation, while efforts are underway to extend the jurisdiction of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the region. Officials briefed the minister that an EPA officer has been deployed in Taxila and mapping of local industries, factories, and brick kilns has been completed.

The meeting also reviewed progress on the comprehensive Taxila City Master Plan. Key proposals include expanding the Taxila Museum, creating a Bhir Open Air Museum, and restoring major heritage sites such as Monkyala Stupa, Bhalar Stupa, Dharmarajika, and the Mohra Moradu Complex. Preservation of ancient ruins at Sirkap City, Kanalah, and Kalawan also forms a core part of the plan.

The master plan envisions the development of a Gandhara Tourist Trail, construction of an entrance gate, improved road infrastructure, and remodeling of the Gandhara Art Village. High-quality facilities for tourists and staff training are integral to the proposed upgrades. Senator Pervaiz Rasheed and Provincial Minister Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora joined the meeting via video link.

Also present were Members of the Provincial Assembly, secretaries from the Tourism, Planning, and Communication & Works departments, the Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner of Rawalpindi, RPO, and representatives from various government and private sector stakeholders. Reaffirming the government’s commitment, Marriyum Aurangzeb said the initiative reflects the Chief Minister’s resolve to safeguard Punjab’s cultural and historical treasures. “The Gandhara region is the cradle of ancient civilizations, and protecting its legacy is a national responsibility,” she stated.

She added that the Chief Minister has already granted in-principle approval for the restoration and development of 170 tourism sites and routes across Punjab. Plans to establish a National Art College in Taxila are also under active consideration. Following the meeting, the senior minister visited Mohra Moradu Stupa and the Gandhara Art Village, accompanied by experts from the Walled City Master Planning team, private stakeholders, and heritage architects.

SOS Pakistan transforming countless young lives through love: Azam Tarar Tags: taxila developed global.