By Our Correspondent
LAHORE: After assuming charge as Secretary Auqaf Punjab / Chief Administrator Auqaf Punjab, Dr. Ehsan Bhutta has initiated effective monitoring and administrative measures that have led to a historic increase in the cash opening at the shrine of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh (RA), Lahore.
Read also: Shrines are centers of spiritual guidance, peace, and cultural heritage: Dr Ehsan Bhutta
According to the spokesperson of Auqaf Punjab, the cash opening for the week ending Monday, 9th February 2026, reached a record Rs. 83,01,870, compared to Rs. 48,19,990 on the corresponding date last year (10th February 2025), reflecting a remarkable 72.23% increase.
The financial progress over the last four weeks clearly demonstrates a consistent upward trend:
19.01.2026 – Rs. 47.50 lakh
26.01.2026 – Rs. 39.84 lakh
02.02.2026 – Rs. 54.63 lakh
09.02.2026 – Rs. 83.15 lakh
It is noteworthy that prior to the deployment of special Headquarter Monitoring Teams, the weekly cash opening ranged between Rs. 25 lakh to Rs. 32 lakh. The introduction of strict monitoring, transparent procedures, and improved oversight mechanisms by the headquarters has resulted in an impressive 70% to 150% increase in revenue within just a few weeks.
The Secretary Auqaf emphasized that transparency, accountability, and efficient management of shrine funds remain top priorities. He reaffirmed that the increased revenue will be utilized for better facilities for devotees, welfare initiatives, and further improvement of shrine management across Punjab.
