The Lahore Development Authority (LDA) launched a large-scale operation against illegal commercial properties and fee defaulters across various localities in Lahore on Thursday. The initiative, spearheaded by LDA Director General Tahir Farooq, aims to enforce building regulations and curb unauthorized constructions across the city.
Sealing of Properties and Demolition of Structures
During the operation, 96 properties were sealed and several illegal structures were demolished in prominent areas, including:
- Gulberg, New Garden Town, Faisal Town: 33 properties sealed.
- Allama Iqbal Town: 33 properties sealed.
- Shadman and Gulshan Ravi: 30 properties sealed.
The sealed properties included private schools, offices, cafes, bakeries, restaurants, grocery stores, pharmacies, salons, and shops.
In addition, LDA teams demolished unauthorized constructions in Wapda Town, Defence Road, and College Road Township after issuing multiple prior notices to the property owners, urging them to comply with legal requirements.
Encroachment Removal in Johar Town and Revenue Society
In a parallel effort, LDA teams targeted temporary encroachments in Johar Town’s F-1 and R-1 Blocks, Revenue Society, and the Finance and Trade Centre (FTC). Several shops and workshops were instructed to clear roadways and greenbelts. A two-day notice was issued to establishments on Samsani Road to voluntarily remove encroachments.
LDA also continued operations to clear commercial plots and remove illegal shacks in FTC, Johar Town.
Developments in LDA Avenue One and Jubilee Town
A meeting chaired by DG LDA Tahir Farooq reviewed the progress of developmental works in LDA Avenue One and Jubilee Town. The DG emphasized the need for a robust mechanism to address security and cleanliness concerns and directed teams to expedite boundary wall and barrier installations. Efforts to remove encroachments and livestock in these housing schemes are also underway.
Commitment to Enforcement
Chief Town Planners Asad-ul-Zaman and Azhar Ali supervised the operations. DG Tahir Farooq reiterated LDA’s commitment to uphold legal construction practices and safeguard public spaces, vowing continued action against illegal commercial activities, tax defaulters, and unauthorized constructions.