The Punjab government is revamping the joint check-post at Wagha border with India. Work is currently in progress on the project and is expected to be completed by December 2025.
The prestigious “Expansion of Joint Check Post Wagha” project was formally signed earlier this year, marking a significant milestone in enhancing security, facilities, and tourism infrastructure at the Wagha border crossing. The contract for this visionary project was executed on February 29, 2024. The project’s estimated cost is Rs3 billion, funded by the Punjab government, while the Works Department of Pakistan Rangers Punjab acts as the client.
Construction work officially commenced on June 10, 2024. The project’s duration is 18 months, with a phased completion approach to ensure minimal disruption to border operations. The expansion will increase spectator capacity from 8,000 to 24,000, and features notable additions like a state-of-the-art historical museum showcasing the history of the Wagha border and its significance, and modern waiting lounges with amenities for travelers and tourists. It also includes a green room for VVIPs and dignitaries.
The project involves relocating and increasing the height of the world’s 5th tallest flagpole from 115 meters to 135 meters, making it the world’s 3rd highest flagpole. The flagpole will be designed to withstand extreme weather conditions and will be illuminated at night, making it an iconic landmark.
The building’s design draws inspiration from the crescent and star, symbols of the Wagha border’s historic significance and cultural heritage. The design also incorporates sustainable and energy-efficient features. Principal Architect Zulfiqar Ali Tariq from the A&P Division at NESPAK House will oversee the project’s execution as project manager, ensuring timely completion and quality assurance.
According to details, Punjab’s caretaker chief minister and Commander IV Corps visited the venue on December 25, 2023, and felt the need for expanding the spectators’ venue. Later, presentations were made to the Apex Committee for approval. A comprehensive reconstruction plan of the venue was prepared to address and accommodate the growing need, especially on national holidays.
Pakistan Rangers strategized an expansion to tackle the issue of limited space, which previously accommodated 8,000-9,000 spectators. As per the new plan, the seating capacity of spectators will be increased to accommodate 20,000-22,000 people. To manage funding and staffing requirement, the Punjab government is supervising the project. Project funds are being provided by the Punjab government, and NESPAK, an international level engineering consultancy organization, was tasked with design and construction supervision.
The relocation of flagpole is also part of the project. The existing flagpole, currently off-center, will be relocated to align with the Alamgiri Gate, the entrance. Further project details are as follows. The Pakistan Rangers Punjab is the client for this project funded by the Punjab government. Major facilities to be added to the historical site and international border include the design of the Alamgiri Gate.
The height of the structure will be 166’-0” and the covered area is 155,000 sqft. There will be four sitting arenas for spectators according to the building level. Two VIP lounges/waiting areas will be part of the expansion project. A total of 15 Rangers offices will be constructed, while Rangers Barracks would accommodate 100 persons. A history museum will be constructed on a site area of 10,600 sqft, while a media gallery will cover 2,000 sqft.