WCLA Restoring Koocha Hussain Shah In Old Lahore

LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2024) The Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA) is restoring the ancient Koocha Hussain Shah located behind the Wazir Khan Masjid and the restoration will be completed by end of 2024.

According to the history, provided by the WCLA, this neighbourhood is named after Hussain Shah, who was renowned for his ability to treat eye infections and illnesses. He was reputed to possess a surma (kohl) that could reportedly restore even lost vision or blindness. Additionally, he served as the warden of the Rezakar team before the establishment of Pakistan.

The project In-Charge Mubashir Hassan explained that at present the restoration work was underway to revive the historical significance of the houses, street infrastructure, and other features around the Wazir Khan Masjid. “The ADP scheme for Koocha Hussain Shah was approved in 2021 and Government of Punjab’s funding is being used for the rehabilitation project,” Mubashar added.

He further mentioned that the rehabilitation included the restoration of 31 buildings and 400 meters of street infrastructure whereas 13 of these buildings held historical significance and could be stated that are almost 200 years old.

Mubashar also said, “Following the approval of the restoration scheme, architectural documentation and rehabilitation proposals were made and 3D scanning of the buildings was done to get to know the exact condition of the buildings. The project was shared with the Heritage Conservation board of WCLA and later the work began and will be completed by 2024 end and the approximate cost of the project is 90 million rupees.”

Mubashar said,” In this project we will be doing the façade and structural rehabilitation of all the properties along with the infrastructure improvements. We will be taking the wiring underground, improve the sanitation and sewerage systems and similarly all open drains will be covered.”