شہری اور ضلعی ریئل اسٹیٹ خبریں

Lahore : Riaz Hussain ReNews Pakistan

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has directed federal and regional authorities to accelerate development projects in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), emphasizing the need for stronger institutional coordination, efficient governance and timely implementation of public development schemes.

Chairing a high-level review meeting in Islamabad, Dar stressed that development initiatives must deliver tangible socio-economic benefits to residents of both regions. He called for improved cooperation between the federal government and the respective regional administrations to overcome procedural delays, address administrative challenges and ensure that approved development programmes are implemented effectively. The meeting focused on strengthening governance mechanisms and improving the institutional framework needed to support infrastructure development, economic opportunities and essential public services in AJK and Gilgit-Baltistan.

During the meeting, the deputy prime minister reviewed key administrative, legislative and financial matters affecting the implementation of development projects. Discussions focused on improving coordination among federal and regional institutions, resolving governance bottlenecks and addressing budgetary and administrative issues that could delay development activities. Dar urged the governments of AJK and Gilgit-Baltistan to introduce practical, results-oriented initiatives aimed at strengthening public administration and improving service delivery at the local level. He also emphasized the importance of modernizing administrative procedures, increasing transparency and ensuring that development resources are utilized efficiently. The proposed improvements are intended to create a more effective environment for public infrastructure projects and other government-led development initiatives while enhancing the capacity of regional institutions to respond to local development needs.

Referring to the historical significance of both regions and the contributions and sacrifices of their people, Ishaq Dar reaffirmed the federal government's commitment to supporting their socio-economic development. He stressed that improved institutional cooperation and the timely resolution of financial and administrative challenges were essential for translating development priorities into practical results. The meeting highlighted the need for continued engagement between federal and regional authorities to strengthen governance, improve accountability and facilitate the implementation of development programmes. Although no project-specific budgets, construction schedules or completion deadlines were disclosed in the meeting details, the directives signal a renewed focus on accelerating development activities in AJK and Gilgit-Baltistan. The effectiveness of these measures will depend on coordinated implementation, the availability of financial resources and the ability of the concerned institutions to address outstanding administrative and regulatory issues.

The Lahore High Court (LHC) has suspended an e-tender for a road construction project in Rajanpur district financed through funds collected under the Sugarcane Development Cess, raising questions about the legality of the committee responsible for allocating and utilizing the development levy.

Justice Jawad Hassan issued the interim order while admitting a petition filed by Indus Sugar Mills Limited for regular hearing. The sugar mill challenged the constitution and composition of the committee overseeing the cess funds, as well as the allocation and proposed expenditure of those funds on road construction and improvement projects. Following preliminary arguments, the court suspended the e-tender notice issued on October 9, 2026, by the Superintending Engineer, Highway Circle, Dera Ghazi Khan, and restrained further proceedings by the committee until the next hearing scheduled for December 9. The order temporarily halts the tendering process while the court examines whether the relevant authorities complied with statutory requirements in approving the development initiative.

Representing Indus Sugar Mills Limited, counsel Ahmad Raza argued that Rule 9(a-1), clause (ix), of the Punjab Sugarcane (Development) Cess Rules, 1964, establishes mandatory requirements for the committee's composition to ensure stakeholder representation, accountability and transparent utilization of funds collected through the statutory levy. He submitted that Muhammad Awais Drashik, the Member of the Provincial Assembly representing constituency PP-296, where the sugar mill is located, had not been included in the committee despite the prescribed legal requirement.

According to the petitioner, repeated representations were submitted to the concerned authorities and the committee seeking correction of the alleged irregularity, but no effective action was taken. The counsel maintained that the petition was not intended merely to secure the inclusion of a particular individual; rather, it raised a broader legal question concerning the validity of a statutory committee empowered to determine how public development funds should be spent. He also referred to Articles 4 and 10-A of the Constitution, previous Lahore High Court observations regarding the limits of statutory powers and a Supreme Court judgment concerning petitions involving matters of public importance.

During the proceedings, Additional Advocate General Bashir Ahmed Buzdar challenged the maintainability of the petition and informed the court that only the Rajanpur deputy commissioner had submitted a written response, while three other respondents had yet to file their reports or comments. The law officer requested additional time to obtain the remaining submissions. Justice Jawad Hassan observed that the dispute involved more than an ordinary administrative disagreement because it concerned compliance with legally prescribed procedures governing the constitution and functioning of a public committee. The court emphasized that when legislation specifies a particular procedure, the relevant authorities cannot replace it with an alternative administrative arrangement or disregard mandatory legal requirements. After examining the preliminary submissions, the judge found that the petitioner had established a prima facie case and that the balance of convenience supported granting interim relief. The court also observed that allowing the tendering process to proceed could create third-party contractual interests, potentially complicating the dispute and undermining the effectiveness of its eventual judgment.

Consequently, the Lahore High Court suspended the October 9 e-tender notice and further proceedings of the disputed committee pending the next hearing. The court directed the government law officer to ensure that all respondents submit their written statements before December 9 and summoned the Rajanpur deputy commissioner to appear in person alongside senior officials from the other concerned departments. The judge clarified that the interim suspension should not be interpreted as a final determination of the legality of the committee, the proposed allocation of Sugarcane Development Cess funds or the road construction project itself. The case highlights the importance of statutory compliance and transparent decision-making in the financing of public infrastructure, particularly road development schemes supported by funds collected from specific economic sectors.

The rapid expansion of housing schemes, residential townships and commercial developments in Charsadda district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is threatening fertile agricultural land, raising serious concerns about declining crop production, environmental degradation and long-term food security.

Once recognized for its productive wheat and sugarcane fields, vegetable farms and extensive fruit orchards, Charsadda is witnessing increasing conversion of cultivated land into residential plots, housing colonies and concrete structures. According to official figures cited in reports, the district has approximately 500,000 jeribs of land, including around 141,000 jeribs classified as agricultural land. However, growing population pressure, unplanned urban expansion and the proliferation of housing projects have significantly affected farming activities. The conversion of fertile land into residential developments reportedly accelerated after 2018, with estimates suggesting that approximately 25% to 30% of productive agricultural land may have been converted into townships and housing projects, although a comprehensive official land-use survey is required to determine the actual extent of the transformation.

The expansion of residential and commercial construction has particularly affected agricultural areas across Charsadda, Tangi and Shabqadar tehsils. Earlier estimates placed the cultivated area at approximately 220,000 jeribs in Charsadda tehsil, 173,000 jeribs in Tangi and 95,000 jeribs in Shabqadar, highlighting the district's historically strong agricultural base. However, continuous land conversion has reportedly reduced wheat cultivation to around 50,000 acres, while sugarcane and maize production have also experienced declines. Tobacco, an important cash crop traditionally cultivated in Tangi and northern Hashtnagar, is now reportedly grown on approximately 7,163 acres.

The district's traditional fruit-growing industry has also suffered substantial losses, with plum orchards in Sherpao and surrounding areas, once known for supplying fruit to Punjab and other regions, having largely disappeared. Mango and persimmon orchards have similarly declined across several localities, with Abazai remaining among the areas where fruit cultivation continues. Farmers warn that the continued loss of agricultural land could further weaken the district's capacity to produce essential food crops and reduce its contribution to regional agricultural markets.

Beyond declining agricultural output, the uncontrolled spread of housing colonies and commercial infrastructure is creating additional environmental and economic challenges. Farmers and local residents have expressed concern that extensive construction, the replacement of cultivated fields with paved surfaces and increasing groundwater consumption could place further pressure on underground water reserves and the surrounding ecosystem.

The disappearance of agricultural land and orchards is also affecting farmworkers, agricultural labourers and families whose livelihoods depend on crop cultivation, fruit production and related rural economic activities. Growers believe that continued conversion of productive farmland into residential plots could increase Charsadda's dependence on wheat, vegetables and other essential food supplies from neighbouring districts and provinces. They also warn that the gradual decline of farming opportunities may contribute to rural unemployment and undermine the district's traditional agricultural economy.

Local residents and farming communities have urged the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government and relevant development and regulatory authorities to introduce stronger measures to protect fertile agricultural land from uncontrolled residential and commercial development. They have demanded strict action against unauthorized housing schemes, effective monitoring of land-use changes and legislation restricting the conversion of productive farmland into construction sites. Farmers have also called for comprehensive land-use planning to ensure that future housing developments are directed towards suitable non-agricultural locations rather than fertile cultivated areas. They emphasized that sustainable urban expansion must balance growing housing demand with the protection of agricultural resources, groundwater reserves and rural livelihoods. Without timely regulatory intervention, residents fear that Charsadda could face further agricultural decline, increased environmental pressure and growing food security challenges in the coming years.

Pakistan’s first water-sensitive sponge park has been inaugurated at Jamali Park in Federal B Area, Block 8, Karachi, introducing an innovative urban development model designed to conserve rainwater, reduce surface runoff and mitigate the risk of urban flooding.

Developed through a collaboration between World Wide Fund for Nature-Pakistan (WWF-P), Gulberg Town Municipal Corporation and GSK (GlaxoSmithKline), the project has the capacity to temporarily retain up to100,000 gallons of rainwater during monsoon rainfall events. Spread over approximately one acre, the redesigned public park incorporates nature-based water management infrastructure intended to improve rainwater infiltration and groundwater recharge.

Experts believe the initiative offers a practical solution to Karachi's growing urban drainage challenges, where extensive concrete surfaces and paved roads prevent rainwater from naturally entering the ground, causing significant quantities of water to flow into drainage systems and eventually into the sea.

The park features specially designed rain gardens, bioswales and permeable pathways that enable it to absorb and temporarily store rainwater before allowing it to gradually infiltrate the soil. Rain gardens collect runoff in shallow, planted depressions, while bioswales help slow and filter stormwater through vegetated channels. Permeable walkways allow water to pass through their surfaces rather than accumulating on paved areas, helping reduce pressure on conventional drainage infrastructure during heavy rainfall. Beyond stormwater management, the park includes native tree plantations, a dedicated biodiversity zone, a pollinator habitat and a community learning area designed to promote environmental awareness and provide visitors with opportunities to understand sustainable water conservation practices. These improvements are also expected to support urban wildlife, increase green cover, reduce the urban heat island effect and improve the surrounding area's microclimate.

Speaking at the inauguration, Anum Farhan, Senior Programme Adviser for Asia, Conservation, Advocacy and Policy at WWF-UK, described the transformation of Jamali Park as an example of how local governments can translate climate commitments into practical improvements in public spaces. Naeem Ashraf Raja, Director of the Biodiversity Programme at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, welcomed the initiative for its contribution to urban biodiversity and its alignment with the objectives of the Global Biodiversity Framework. Sohail Ali Naqvi, Director of the Freshwater Programme at WWF-Pakistan, emphasized that the project demonstrates how nature-based infrastructure can support groundwater recharge, conserve urban vegetation and strengthen sustainable water management. He noted that similar interventions could be replicated and expanded across Karachi and other Pakistani cities to address the increasing environmental pressures associated with rapid urbanization.

Gulberg Town Chairman Nusratullah announced plans to introduce similar environmentally sustainable designs in other public parks across the town, indicating the potential for wider adoption of sponge park infrastructure in Karachi. The inauguration ceremony was attended by representatives of government institutions, academia, civil society, corporate organizations and local communities. Environmental experts believe the Jamali Park project provides a replicable model for municipalities seeking to integrate stormwater management into urban planning, public park development and rehabilitation programmes. By combining recreational facilities with rainwater conservation, groundwater recharge and biodiversity protection, the initiative demonstrates how existing urban spaces can be redesigned to improve climate resilience, reduce localized flooding risks and support more sustainable development in Pakistan's rapidly expanding cities.

The district administration of Khanewal has issued notices to the owners of 70 vacant plots over poor sanitation conditions and cleared accumulated waste from 679 locations as part of an intensified cleanliness campaign under the Suthra Punjab Programme. The initiative, being implemented on the directives of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, focuses on improving sanitation in residential neighbourhoods, vacant properties, public spaces and major roads across the district. According to the district administration, road washing and waste removal operations have been accelerated to improve the urban environment and provide residents with cleaner and healthier surroundings.

Deputy Commissioner Khanewal Hina Arshad visited Union Council No. 2 and several residential areas, including Azeem Town, Lakri Mandi, Hakeem Park and localities surrounding City Park, to inspect cleanliness arrangements along streets, roads and public spaces. During the inspections, she sought feedback from residents regarding sanitation services and reviewed the performance of field teams. She directed the authorities concerned to intensify road washing operations using water bowsers and mechanical sweepers, particularly along major thoroughfares, to maintain improved cleanliness standards across urban neighbourhoods.

As part of the district-wide operation, the Suthra Punjab Agency issued notices to 70 vacant plot owners for failing to maintain adequate cleanliness on their properties. Officials also reported the removal of accumulated garbage from 679 locations across the district. The Deputy Commissioner subsequently visited Union Council No. 84 in Chak No. 12-AH, where she assessed the performance of sanitation teams and directed officials to give particular attention to cleanliness in residential areas, streets and public roads. The measures are aimed at addressing waste accumulation on vacant land and improving sanitation conditions in both urban and rural communities.

Later, Hina Arshad visited Government Girls High School in Chak No. 12-AH, where she reviewed student attendance, educational activities and sanitation arrangements. She instructed the school administration and relevant staff to maintain proper cleanliness standards and ensure a healthy learning environment for students. The district administration emphasised the continued implementation of sanitation measures to improve public facilities and maintain cleanliness across Khanewal.

Deputy Commissioner Bahawalpur Syed Hasan Raza has directed government departments to accelerate ongoing development projects across the district and ensure their timely completion to improve civic infrastructure and public service delivery. Chairing a special review meeting on November 12, he assessed progress on schemes being implemented under the Punjab Development Programme, alongside administrative matters, public facilities and the performance of various departments.

He instructed officials to remove implementation delays and ensure that development initiatives deliver practical benefits to residents. The meeting also reviewed ongoing infrastructure improvements, the provision of basic amenities and progress under the Model Village Project, with particular emphasis on effective implementation in rural communities.

The Deputy Commissioner directed the departments concerned to strengthen drainage infrastructure in urban and rural areas, ensure regular cleaning of drains and improve sanitation arrangements to address public health and safety concerns. He ordered the immediate identification of uncovered manholes and installation of protective covers on an emergency basis to prevent accidents. Reviewing the Suthra Punjab Programme, he instructed the responsible agencies to maintain prescribed cleanliness standards and improve waste management operations.

He also directed revenue officials to prioritise pending cases and ensure the prompt resolution of public complaints.

The meeting further examined price monitoring, consumer protection and regulatory enforcement across the district. Syed Hasan Raza directed price control magistrates to intensify inspections of markets and take action against overcharging and profiteering. He also called for advance planning for Ramazan 2027 to ensure adequate supplies of essential food items and price stability. Officials were instructed to monitor consumer facilities at petrol pumps, verify the accuracy of fuel measuring equipment and enforce applicable regulations.

The Deputy Commissioner assessed departmental performance against General Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and progress under the e-Biz initiative, particularly improvements in service delivery and achievement of assigned targets. He emphasised accountability, efficient administration and stronger coordination among departments to ensure timely execution of development schemes and improved public services. Additional Deputy Commissioner Social Services Dr Ayesha Khan, Sub-Divisional Enforcement Officer PERA Force Mujtaba Manzoor and representatives of relevant government departments attended the meeting.

The district administration of Kech has reviewed proposals aimed at improving urban infrastructure, municipal services and public healthcare facilities in Turbat, with particular emphasis on streetlighting, cleanliness and development projects.

The proposals were discussed during a meeting chaired by Deputy Commissioner Kech Yaser Iqbal Dashti on November 12, attended by Mayor Municipal Corporation Turbat Balach Sher Qazi and District Health Officer Kech Dr Abdul Rauf Baloch. Additional Deputy Commissioner Maqbool Anwar, Assistant Commissioner Balingor Najmuddin Zahri, WHO District Polio Officer Dr Arsalan Darazai, PDMA Deputy Director Malik Rehan and other officials also participated.

During the meeting, officials discussed measures to improve Turbat's urban environment, including the maintenance of public spaces, sanitation services and essential civic infrastructure. Particular attention was given to proposals for installing streetlights along major roads, intersections and prominent locations to improve nighttime visibility, facilitate traffic movement and enhance public safety. The administration also reviewed initiatives aimed at improving the city's appearance and addressing municipal challenges affecting residents.

The District Health Officer briefed participants on the overall healthcare situation in Kech, highlighting the availability of basic medical facilities, disease prevention measures and ongoing vaccination programmes. Meanwhile, the meeting examined ongoing and proposed development schemes under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) and the Balochistan Strategic Development Initiative. Officials discussed implementation priorities and the need for stronger coordination among relevant departments to ensure that infrastructure and healthcare projects are completed efficiently.

Deputy Commissioner Yaser Iqbal Dashti stressed that effective monitoring, transparent implementation and close coordination among government departments were essential for achieving sustainable urban development. He directed the concerned officials to prioritise public needs, accelerate progress on development initiatives and ensure that improvements in municipal infrastructure, healthcare services and civic facilities deliver practical benefits to residents of Turbat.

Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab has laid the foundation stone for infrastructure development projects worth approximately Rs 732 million in the North Karachi Industrial Area, aimed at improving road networks, drainage systems and essential facilities to support industrial growth and economic activity.

The projects are being undertaken by the North Karachi Association of Trade and Industry (NKATI). The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by representatives of the industrial community, City Council members and NKATI President Faisal Moiz Khan. Speaking on the occasion, the mayor emphasised that modern infrastructure in industrial zones was essential for attracting investment, facilitating business operations and creating employment opportunities. He said stronger industrial activity would contribute to economic development through increased tax revenues, foreign exchange earnings and job creation.

Addressing challenges faced by Karachi’s industrial sector, Wahab highlighted gas shortages, high electricity tariffs and inadequate water supply. Referring to Article 158 of the Constitution, he maintained that Sindh was not receiving its rightful share of natural gas despite being a major gas-producing province. He urged the federal government to address the issue while advocating greater utilisation of Sindh’s wind energy potential to provide affordable electricity to industries. Regarding Karachi’s water shortages, he said the city's existing infrastructure had the capacity to transport an additional 100 to 200 million gallons of water daily and called for an increase in its water allocation.

The mayor also announced plans to collaborate with industrialists on environmental compliance, chemical analysis, wastewater recycling, sewage treatment and biogas initiatives. He assured the business community of the Sindh government's continued support and directed consultants and contractors to expedite the development works, particularly road construction and drainage improvements. Wahab said approximately Rs 732 million would be spent on the projects, with the amount subsequently sought from the provincial government. He expressed confidence that improved infrastructure would strengthen North Karachi's industrial environment and support long-term economic development.

Capital Development Authority (CDA) Chairman and Islamabad Chief Commissioner Sohail Ashraf has directed the relevant departments to expedite development works and resolve infrastructure-related issues in Park Enclave, particularly in Phases II and III, to ensure improved residential facilities and timely delivery of essential services to plot allottees.