LAHORE – The Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA) commemorated World Heritage Day on Saturday with great enthusiasm by organizing a series of activities across major heritage sites, including Shalimar Gardens, the Shahdara Complex, and the Walled City. According to WCLA sources here the Punjab government is keen to promote awareness among the general public regarding the importance of safeguarding and preserving our cultural heritage. A key highlight of the celebrations was a seminar held at Shalimar Gardens on the theme “Preserving the Past for a Sustainable Future.”  The seminar brought together distinguished experts and professionals who discussed the importance of heritage conservation and sustainable preservation practices.  Furthermore, a small exhibition showcasing the work of artisans from various crafts was set up at Shalimar Gardens, including kashi kari (tile work), red sandstone lattice (jali) work, fresco, and others. WCLA intends to support artisans and preserve dying arts, such initiatives help promote awareness among the public to respect our heritage and support both tangible and intangible cultural heritage. In the Walled City of Lahore, WCLA organized engaging activities for children, including art competitions aimed at promoting awareness about cultural heritage. At the historic Wazir Khan Mosque courtyard (Chowk Wazir Khan), a painting competition was held among students of College of Tourism and Hotel Management, where participants beautifully illustrated the mosque’s architectural splendor. 
Prizes were awarded to the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd position holders, while the event was judged by a renowned painting teacher Mr. Maqsood Ahmed. Furthermore, calligraphy and essay writing competitions were organized at the historic Shahi Hammam, encouraging students to express their appreciation for heritage through art and literature.
A photowalk was also arranged at the Jahangir’s Tomb within the Shahdara Complex, which witnessed participation from around 100 photographers and members of the general public. 
The activity aimed to capture and celebrate the architectural beauty and historical significance of the site.
To further engage young visitors, WCLA distributed gift hampers among children visiting various heritage sites on the occasion of World Heritage Day.
On this occasion, WCLA DG  Najmus Saqib , in his message, emphasized the importance of preserving cultural heritage as a shared responsibility.
He highlighted that such initiatives play a vital role in raising awareness among the public, especially the younger generation, about the significance of safeguarding historical assets for the future.
WCLA reaffirmed its commitment to the conservation, promotion, and sustainable management of Lahore’s rich cultural heritage.