By Abdul Ghani

The government plans to launch multiple public-private partnership (PPP)-based sports, recreational, and commercial projects on more than 131 acres around the periphery of Mazar-e-Quaid.

According to a document available with Wealth Pakistan, the Quaid-e-Azam Mazar Management Board (QMMB), in its 101st meeting, constituted a special committee to explore feasible PPP options and identify permissible uses of the mausoleum’s peripheral land. The total peripheral area under consideration spans 131.718 acres.

The special committee comprised officials from the National Heritage and Culture Division, the Accountant General Sindh, and technical experts. The committee met at the QMMB office on May 4, 2026, and proposed the development of a sports infrastructure on 2.967 acres in the southeast peripheral area. The suggested facilities include a football ground, a padel court, a tennis court, a gymnasium, and other sports-related facilities.

Another key proposal concerns the east peripheral area, also known as the Jinnah Urban Forest, where 8.67 acres have been earmarked for recreational activities. The suggested facilities include a jogging track, a mini zoo, a horse-riding club, amusement rides, and a food court.

The committee has also recommended the construction of a community hall on a 0.48-acre plot located on Nizami Road.

In Plot 1 of the south peripheral area, 0.42 acres have been proposed for a filling station and electric vehicle charging station. Besides, a separate 0.15-acre plot near Bab-e-Rehmat Mosque in the same zone has been recommended for a public library.

The proposed PPP projects are expected to improve public facilities, promote recreational and tourism activities, and generate sustainable revenue for maintenance and development of the mausoleum.

The recommendations are expected to be presented before the board in the upcoming meeting for approval and further action.

Credit: INP-WealthPk