UNESCO instructs to change route of Orange Line metro train

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) released a report, which states that inadequate and insufficient arrangements have been made to prevent damage to the heritage and cultural site.

The report, a copy of which is also available with ARY News, expressed severe reservations over the ongoing construction of the megaproject.

The report states that there was no buffer zone between the metro line train and the Shalamar Gardens, while recommendations to remove encroachments around it were also negated. The report said that there can be no construction within 200 feet of the heritage site.

It stated that the Shalamar Gardens and water tanks were added to the UNESCO Heritage List due to its historical importance, but they faced permanent damage due to the Orange Line metro train.

The agency urged the government of Punjab to change the route, while the Lahore High Court (LHC) is also expected to announce its verdict on the case on Friday.