LAHORE DIVISION

Lahore: Husnain Aulakh, Special Correspondent | ReNews Pakistan Chief Executive Officer of Punjab Central Business District Development Authority known as CBD Punjab and Ravi Urban Development Authority (RUDA) Imran Amin met with Ali Mustafa Dar Advisor to the Chief Minister of Punjab on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Special Initiatives. The high-level meeting focused on the strategic integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and tokenization frameworks within the ongoing and upcoming projects of CBD Punjab and RUDA. The meeting focused on utilizing AI-driven governance to refine urban planning and enhance data-driven decision-making. Both officials evaluated the implementation of AI for smart infrastructure, digital service delivery, and predictive analytics to streamline operational efficiency and transparency across all development projects. A key highlight of the meeting was the exploration of asset tokenization frameworks aimed at increasing transparency accessibility and investor participation in large-scale urban development projects. The concept of digital asset tokenization was discussed as a forward-looking approach to modernize real estate investment mechanisms and create secure technology-backed financial ecosystems. Ali Mustafa Dar appreciated the proactive approach of CBD Punjab and RUDA in embracing AI and innovative financial technologies. He assured full support from his office in facilitating policy guidance, technical collaboration and pilot initiatives to position Punjab as a leading hub for smart and technology-enabled urban development. CEO CBD Punjab & RUDA Imran Amin briefed the Advisor on the ongoing progress of CBD Punjab & RUDA emphasizing their vision to transform urban development through vertical growth sustainability and smart-city principles. He reiterated the commitment of both authorities to adopt emerging technologies that align with the Government of Punjab’s digital transformation agenda. The meeting concluded with a mutual understanding to establish a structured roadmap for AI integration and tokenization pilots within selected projects of CBD Punjab & RUDA.

Lahore | ReNews Pakistan The Punjab government has announced a major initiative to provide free agricultural land to eligible landless farmers under its rural development and agricultural empowerment program. The scheme is designed to improve land ownership access, promote agricultural productivity, and support long-term rural economic stability. Under the program, qualifying farmers will be allotted between 3 and 5 acres of cultivable state-owned land to enable them to establish independent farming operations and secure sustainable sources of income. The initiative forms part of broader efforts to enhance agricultural output and ensure more effective utilization of public land resources. Officials stated that the scheme is intended to empower small and landless farmers by providing direct access to agricultural land, which remains a critical asset for economic security and rural development. By facilitating land ownership, the program is expected to strengthen farming capacity, reduce rural poverty, and encourage productive land use. Agricultural and land policy observers noted that improved access to land plays a key role in supporting agricultural sustainability, strengthening rural communities, and enhancing the long-term value and productivity of agricultural property assets across Punjab.

Lahore | ReNews Pakistan Authorities have imposed Section 144 across Punjab, enforcing a 30-day ban on outdoor drone operations in response to security concerns. The measure aims to strengthen security arrangements and protect public spaces, residential areas, and sensitive locations. According to the official notification, the use of drones in open and outdoor locations is strictly prohibited, and violations may result in legal action. The restriction has been implemented as part of precautionary measures to ensure public safety and maintain law and order. However, limited use of small camera drones has been permitted for indoor events held in halls and marquees. In such cases, the responsibility for drone operations and compliance with safety regulations will rest with the hall or marquee management. Officials stated that the decision is intended to regulate aerial activities, prevent unauthorized surveillance, and support overall security management across urban and residential areas of the province.