LAHORE DIVISION

Lahore: [Riaz Hussain ReNews Pakistan] The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has assured that new property rates for DHA will be issued with a reduction of approximately 30 to 35 percent, a move being described as a positive and encouraging development for the real estate sector. Chaudhry Touqeer Asif, Director Information of the DHA Estate Agents Association Lahore, stated that this step will not only generate a positive trend in the market but is also expected to significantly accelerate property buying and selling activities. He added that the reduction in rates will help restore the confidence of buyers and investors, leading to increased investment and improved business activity. Stakeholders in the real estate sector believe that this decision will play a key role in making the market more stable and active, while also contributing to overall business growth. According to the Director Information, the official implementation of the new rates may take up to one week.

Lahore: [ReNews Pakistan] According to the Directorate of Public Relations, Lahore Development Authority (LDA), on the instructions of DG LDA Tahir Farooq, the Town Planning Wing has launched a vigorous operation against illegal commercial buildings and properties involved in non-payment of commercial fees. During the operation conducted across various schemes and LDA controlled areas, a total of 122 properties were sealed. LDA teams carried out operations in several areas including GT Road, Gulshan Ravi, Samanabad, PIA Society, Sabzazar, Gulberg, and New Garden Town. During the action, 37 properties were sealed in GT Road, Gulshan Ravi, and Samanabad; 22 properties in PIA Society; 23 properties in Gulberg and New Garden Town; while 40 properties were sealed in Sabzazar. The sealed properties included private schools, colleges, academies, bakeries, pharmacies, beauty salons, clinics, grocery stores, auto workshops, electric shops, restaurants, food points, retail shops, offices, and other commercial units. The operation was conducted under the supervision of Chief Town Planner I Asad uz Zaman and Chief Town Planner-II Azhar Ali. LDA officials stated that indiscriminate actions against illegal commercial use and fee defaulters will continue in the future as well.

Lahore | ReNews Pakistan The Punjab government has achieved significant financial savings of Rs28 billion through a transparent tendering process across multiple development schemes, officials revealed during a high level review meeting of the Punjab Development Programme (PDP). Chairing the meeting ,Punjab Local Government Minister Zeeshan Rafique said the savings reflect improved governance, accountability, and efficiency in public sector projects. He highlighted that out of 55 suction machines planned for different cities have already been procured, while the acquisition process for 55 jetting machines and 100 dewatering sets is actively progressing. Additionally, the purchase of 77 desilting machines is in its final stages. The minister stressed that the induction of modern machinery will play a critical role in addressing urban flooding issues, particularly during the monsoon season. He noted that, under the directives of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, a comprehensive system of underground water storage tanks is being developed across major cities. These tanks, to be constructed along roads, will ensure prompt drainage of rainwater and allow stored water to be reused when needed, improving overall water management. Rafique further stated that the government is focusing on strengthening drainage infrastructure through the rehabilitation of 61 existing disposal stations, alongside the construction of 56 new ones. He added that a long term urban development master plan extending to 2050 has been prepared under the PDP to guide sustainable growth. The minister also revealed that advanced pipe lining technology has been successfully introduced in Pakistan, with plants being installed in multiple cities. Development work is currently ongoing in 51 cities under the supervision of the Local Government Department as part of the “Beautiful Punjab” initiative, aimed at modernising urban infrastructure and enhancing civic facilities.