Punjab Province

Pattoki: Kasur District Reporter Sadaf Arshad | ReNews Pakistan
Punjab authorities have announced that a modern electric bus service linking Pattoki with Lahore will begin operations in the near future, offering a cleaner, more reliable, and affordable travel option between the town and the provincial capital. The announcement was made by Rana Muhammad Iqbal Khan, Punjab’s provincial minister for law, who said the initiative reflects the government’s focus on expanding environmentally sustainable public transport.
The service forms part of a wider provincial strategy to modernise public transport through the introduction of electric buses on key intercity and urban routes. Officials said the buses will be equipped with passenger friendly features including Wi Fi connectivity, GPS based tracking, USB charging ports, and improved accessibility, with the aim of enhancing commuter experience while reducing carbon emissions and dependence on private vehicles.
Speaking on the project, the minister said the electric bus service would provide a cost effective and environmentally responsible option for daily commuters, students, and residents travelling between Pattoki and Lahore. He added that integrating the route with Lahore’s wider transport network supports provincial objectives related to smart mobility, cleaner infrastructure, and lower levels of urban air pollution.
Authorities said the project will also involve the development of supporting infrastructure along the route, including charging stations, designated bus stops, and depot facilities to ensure smooth operations and future expansion. Urban planning experts note that such services can help reshape commuting patterns, improve access to employment and education, and encourage more efficient use of transport and land resources.
The Pattoki–Lahore electric bus service is being presented as part of Punjab’s broader commitment to modern, inclusive, and sustainable public transportation. Officials said the initiative is expected to strengthen regional transport links while promoting cleaner and more technologically advanced commuting solutions across the province.

Lahore | ReNews Pakistan
The University of Management and Technology and the Lahore Development Authority have agreed to pursue a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening urban development, planning, and research in Lahore.
The agreement followed a meeting between UMT president Ibrahim Hasan Murad and LDA chairman Mian Marghoob Ahmed, during which both sides discussed how academic expertise can be more closely aligned with public sector planning.
According to participants, talks focused on contemporary approaches to urban planning, sustainable infrastructure, and projects linked to public welfare. There was a shared view that the scale and pace of urban growth in Lahore require closer cooperation between universities and development authorities to generate evidence based solutions.
Officials said the partnership would emphasise research led planning, data analysis, and modern urban studies to support more organised and sustainable growth across the city. Future steps are expected to include joint research initiatives, academic programmes, and capacity building efforts.
The meeting also explored ways to translate academic research into practical planning responses for infrastructure improvement and emerging urban needs. Details of the cooperation framework and specific initiatives are expected to be announced in due course.

Lahore | ReNews Pakistan
Ahead of the upcoming Basant festivities, the Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA) has identified 346 buildings as structurally dangerous following a comprehensive survey of dilapidated and high-risk properties within the historic Walled City. The findings were submitted to the Lahore High Court (LHC) in response to petitions challenging permission for Basant celebrations in the densely populated heritage district.
According to the authority, 183 structures have been classified as irreparable while 163 buildings are considered repairable, highlighting widespread deterioration across aging residential and mixed-use properties. Officials said many of these buildings pose significant risks due to weak foundations, compromised rooftops, and prolonged neglect, raising safety concerns in an area characterised by narrow streets and high footfall.
The report notes that 92 extremely dangerous buildings have been evacuated so far; however, 254 unsafe structures remain occupied, complicating enforcement and rehabilitation efforts. Among the occupied buildings, 103 have been declared beyond repair and 151 require structural restoration. Of the evacuated properties, 80 have been marked fit for demolition while 12 are considered suitable for repair.
The WCLA has warned that rooftops of unsafe buildings are not suitable for Basant-related activities and has initiated measures to restrict their use to prevent accidents. Warning notices and awareness banners are being installed across the locality, while the district administration has been requested to seal hazardous rooftops and building portions and deploy police to ensure public safety. Authorities say the exercise forms part of broader efforts to improve structural safety, protect heritage assets, and manage risk in one of Lahore’s most congested urban cores.