Fort Road Food Street in Lahore Revitalized with a Stunning Makeover, Boosting Cultural Heritage and Tourism

Published on December 23, 2025

Lahore, Pakistan’s cultural capital, has seen a remarkable transformation along its famous Fort Road Food Street. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and culinary delights, the street has undergone a major revitalisation project that aims to preserve the city’s rich heritage while also improving the visual appeal of this popular tourist destination. The project, completed through a collaboration between the Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA) and AkzoNobel Pakistan Ltd, has been hailed as a significant step towards preserving Lahore’s historical charm while modernising it.

A Historic Area Gets a Contemporary Makeover

Fort Road Food Street, located in the heart of Lahore’s Walled City, is one of the most iconic destinations in the city. The project sought to restore the facades of the historic buildings lining the street, many of which date back to centuries-old architectural styles. The restoration initiative was part of a broader effort to maintain the street’s cultural significance while also addressing the needs of modern-day visitors. The project focused on ensuring that the architectural features were respected and preserved, while new colour schemes and finishes were chosen to enhance the aesthetic appeal.

In line with AkzoNobel’s global “Let’s Colour” initiative, which aims to contribute to cultural preservation through urban restoration, the street now features carefully selected colours that breathe new life into its historic buildings. This effort, spearheaded by the WCLA, reflects the growing recognition of Lahore’s importance as a cultural and tourism destination. Officials from both AkzoNobel Pakistan and the WCLA emphasized that the revitalization not only enhances the visual beauty of the street but also aims to promote tourism in the Walled City, ensuring the area’s relevance for generations to come.

A Collaborative Effort to Preserve Lahore’s Rich Heritage

The restoration project stands as a testament to the collaboration between public institutions and private enterprises. With AkzoNobel Pakistan’s involvement, the project ensured that the restoration work was carried out using high-quality materials and finishes while also promoting sustainability. The transformation was celebrated during a formal ceremony, where dignitaries from the WCLA and AkzoNobel Pakistan spoke about the importance of preserving the cultural heritage of Lahore’s historic streets.

In addition to the aesthetic improvements, the initiative was designed to support the tourism industry in the region. The newly revitalized Fort Road Food Street is expected to attract more visitors, providing a cultural and culinary experience that combines tradition with modernity. This aligns with the broader vision of the WCLA to make the Walled City of Lahore a vibrant, accessible, and engaging destination for both local and international tourists.

Fort Road Food Street’s Enhanced Role in Lahore’s Tourism Landscape

Tourism has long been a key driver of Lahore’s economy, and the city’s historical landmarks continue to serve as major attractions. By breathing new life into the Fort Road Food Street, the WCLA and AkzoNobel Pakistan aim to create a dynamic space that blends cultural heritage with contemporary experiences. The street is now open to the public, offering an enriched atmosphere that invites visitors to explore Lahore’s food scene, which is renowned for its diverse offerings, from traditional Pakistani dishes to international cuisine.

The restoration project not only underscores the city’s commitment to preserving its heritage but also enhances the overall tourism experience. Fort Road Food Street, which is already a hotspot for both locals and tourists, now boasts an atmosphere that allows visitors to enjoy the beauty of Lahore’s history while indulging in its culinary delights. The area has been designed to offer a unique fusion of history, culture, and food, making it an essential stop for those looking to immerse themselves in Lahore’s vibrant heritage.

A Global Perspective on Preserving Historic Sites

The revitalization of Fort Road Food Street has also garnered international attention. The US Consul General in Lahore, Stetson Sanders, underscored the global significance of preserving historic landmarks like the Fort Road Food Street. Such preservation efforts not only contribute to the cultural identity of a region but also serve as a vital link between past and present generations. By maintaining these landmarks, cities like Lahore can ensure that their rich history is safeguarded for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.

The initiative’s global impact is also highlighted by AkzoNobel’s commitment to supporting the restoration and preservation of urban spaces worldwide. Through its “Let’s Colour” programme, the company has been involved in numerous projects that aim to revitalize communities while maintaining their cultural significance. The restoration of Fort Road Food Street is a prime example of how such initiatives can positively influence both the local community and the tourism sector.

The Future of Fort Road Food Street and Lahore’s Tourism Growth

As the newly restored Fort Road Food Street opens its doors to visitors, it stands as a symbol of Lahore’s commitment to preserving its historical identity while embracing the future. The revitalization not only enhances the aesthetic value of the street but also reinforces Lahore’s position as a premier tourist destination in Pakistan. The city’s rich cultural heritage, combined with modern infrastructure and enhanced visitor experiences, makes it an attractive destination for tourists from around the world.

The restoration of Fort Road Food Street is just one example of the ongoing efforts by the WCLA to promote sustainable tourism and cultural preservation in Lahore. With more projects in the pipeline, Lahore is set to become a beacon of cultural and historical tourism in South Asia. Visitors to the city can now enjoy a more vibrant, accessible, and culturally immersive experience, while also contributing to the preservation of one of Pakistan’s most cherished historical sites.

Revitalizing Lahore’s Heritage for Future Generations

Lahore’s Fort Road Food Street exemplifies how urban restoration and cultural preservation can coexist. The WCLA, AkzoNobel Pakistan, and other stakeholders collaborated to transform the street into a space that honours its rich history while providing a modern experience for today’s visitors. As more projects like this take place in the Walled City, Lahore will continue to grow as a top tourist destination, ensuring that its vibrant cultural heritage is preserved for future generations to enjoy.