LDA to Invest Rs. 14 Billion in Housing Societies in Lahore

The Lahore Development Authority (LDA) has announced an ambitious investment of Rs. 14 billion for development projects in the financial year 2025-26, with a prime focus on LDA City, Avenue One, and several other schemes across the provincial capital.

This decision was finalized during a meeting chaired by LDA Vice Chairman Mian Marghub Ahmed, which was also attended by WASA Vice Chairman Chaudhry Shahbaz Ahmed and LDA Director General Tahir Farooq.

Budget Allocations and Revenue Targets

According to the approved budget:

• Development receipts have been set at Rs. 23.3 billion.
• Non-development receipts are estimated at Rs. 24.3 billion.
• The Town Planning Wing has been assigned a revenue target of Rs. 16.5 billion.
• The CMP Wing will aim to generate Rs. 1 billion.
• Additional income of around Rs. 11.4 billion is expected through sales and auctions.

Key Approvals and Proposals

The meeting reviewed and approved several major proposals, including:

• Waiver of map and fee requirements for Jinnah Market, Township, and the Child Welfare Centre.
• Reconstitution of the negotiation committee for LDA Avenue One to streamline its development and management.

Additionally, the members approved a series of amendments to the LDA Building and Zoning Regulations 2019, such as:

• Modifications in the floor area ratio (FAR) for high-rise structures.
• Making basements and underground parking optional for new constructions.
• Removal of the mandatory arcade requirement for commercial plots up to 2 marla.
• Updated design rules for the exterior of commercial properties within LDA-controlled areas.

Reforms and Incentives

The committee also deliberated on reforms to reduce financial burdens and promote compliance:

• Lowering penalty fees for illegal commercialization.
• Introducing reduced fees for educational and healthcare institutions.
• Amendments to the LDA Land Use Rules to encourage investment and development.

Members of the meeting commended the LDA administration for its efforts in boosting revenue streams and streamlining development models.

Development Schemes and Future Plans

The authority also approved:

• The sustainable development framework for the Gulberg Scheme.
• The detailed development plan for LDA Avenue One.
• Restoration of maintenance and repair services for LDA-controlled road networks.

These initiatives aim to improve urban planning, modernize infrastructure, and ensure long-term sustainability of Lahore’s growth.