Restoration work of Maharaja Ranjit Singh's ancestral haveli in Pak in progress
By Ali Imran Chatha
Lahore (Pakistan), February 17, 2025: The Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA) is actively working on the conservation and restoration of Haveli Maharaja Ranjit Singh located in Gujranwala, Punjab. Started in May 2024, the project is expected to be completed by November 2025.
Known as the birthplace and childhood home of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, this historic haveli stands as an important representation of Sikh architectural heritage.
The restoration project has significantly progressed, with more than half of the work completed. The main efforts include structural consolidation (such as underpinning, masonry, arch reinforcement, column restoration, and parapet wall construction), roof repair (wooden batten roofing and waterproofing), and floor restoration (edge brick tiles, terrazzo tiles, and Mughal tiles).
In addition, electrification and lighting, decorative surface rendering, plastering and pointing, and woodwork (including installation of doors, windows, and shutters) have been carried out. The encroachment removal work has also been completed.
Highlighting the significance of the project, Najam Ul Saqib, Director of Conservation and Planning at WCLA, said:
"The conservation of Haveli Maharaja Ranjit Singh is a significant step towards preserving our rich cultural and architectural heritage. Our team is dedicated to restoring this historic site while maintaining its original essence. Key restoration milestones, including structural integrity, surface treatment, and encroachment removal, have already been achieved."
WCLA Director General, Kamran Lashari also emphasized the importance of this initiative, saying:
"The conservation of Haveli Maharaja Ranjit Singh reflects our unwavering commitment to preserving Pakistan's cultural and architectural heritage. This place has immense historical significance, and our efforts are focused on restoring its original grandeur while ensuring structural integrity and longevity. WCLA is dedicated to protecting heritage sites through careful conservation, allowing future generations to connect with and appreciate their rich history."