Punjab Province

Lahore | ReNews Pakistan
The Lahore Development Authority (LDA) has initiated a comprehensive revision of the Lahore Division Master Plan 2050 to incorporate recent urban expansion and updated population figures, with officials indicating that the final draft is expected by the end of May.
According to authorities, the revised master plan is likely to come into effect from the beginning of the next fiscal year 2026–27, starting July 1, subject to formal approval by the LDA’s governing body.
LDA Chief Metropolitan Planner Muhammad Faisal Qureshi stated that the consultants who originally prepared the plan in 2022 are currently revising it in line with directives issued by the court. The updated version will reflect developments that have taken place over the past five to six years.
He further explained that the revised draft is being developed based on the 2023 population census, replacing earlier projections that relied on 2017 data. The plan is expected to include newly developed built-up areas across Lahore and its adjoining districts, particularly within residential and mixed-use zones.
The updated master plan will also incorporate major ongoing developments under initiatives such as the Ravi Urban Development Authority (RUDA), including areas within the Ravi Riverfront Urban Development Project.
Officials added that once the draft is completed, it will undergo review by the LDA, followed by a public hearing on the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) conducted by the environment department. The plan is then expected to be presented for final approval in a governing body meeting scheduled for late June.
At present, the LDA continues to operate under the amended Lahore Division Master Plan 2016 for approvals related to housing schemes and land subdivisions.
The Master Plan 2050 was initially finalized in 2022 and approved by the provincial government at the time. However, its implementation was suspended by the Lahore High Court in January 2023 following legal challenges. Petitioners had raised concerns regarding alleged irregularities in the approval process and potential environmental implications.
Subsequently, the court directed the LDA to review the plan. Although the authority had planned to seek input from relevant institutions, including environmental and planning bodies, the review process did not progress at that stage.
Earlier this year, the LDA’s governing body approved the continuation of the revision process, including negotiations with consultants over an estimated cost of PKR 320 million.
The Master Plan 2050 outlines Lahore’s long-term urban development strategy, including proposals for a new city centre in Gulberg and the expansion of urban boundaries to accommodate future population growth. It also provides planning frameworks for major urban settlements in Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahib, and Kasur, aligning with policies of key urban development authorities across the region.

Lahore | ReNews Pakistan
A high level meeting chaired by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz reviewed the progress of the Faisalabad Mass Transit System in detail. Officials concerned presented a comprehensive briefing on the project’s current status, design, and future roadmap.
Emphasizing the significance of the project, the Chief Minister directed authorities to expedite construction work to ensure the timely provision of modern and efficient transport facilities to citizens. She stressed that no delays in the completion of the project would be tolerated.
During the briefing, it was revealed that the mass transit system will span a total length of 20.5 kilometers and include 21 stations. Of this, 11.3 kilometers will consist of elevated routes, with 11 stations planned along this section. The elevated infrastructure is expected to ease urban traffic congestion and enable faster and safer commuting.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz further instructed that all stations be equipped with modern and spacious elevators to facilitate ease of access for the elderly, women, and persons with disabilities. She also directed that urban forests and green spaces be developed at all open areas surrounding the project to improve the city’s environment and help reduce pollution levels.
It was further disclosed that project depots will be established at Faisal Town Faisalabad and Airport Chowk Faisalabad, from where operational activities of the system will be managed.
According to officials, the project is expected to bring a significant transformation to Faisalabad’s public transport system, enhancing mobility while contributing to urban development and economic activity.

Lahore: [ReNews Pakistan]
A key review meeting of the Lahore Development Programme (LDP) was held under the chairmanship of the Deputy Commissioner Lahore, with senior officials from EOMCL, the Additional Deputy Commissioner (Finance), WASA, NESPAK, and other relevant departments in attendance. The meeting conducted a detailed assessment of ongoing development projects, particularly focusing on the quality and pace of street construction.
During the briefing, it was revealed that construction of 5,107 streets has been completed under Phase II of the programme, while work in other areas is progressing at a fast pace. Officials noted that the scope of the project is being expanded to ensure uniform development across the city.
The Deputy Commissioner Lahore issued clear directives, stating that the use of substandard materials in development projects will not be tolerated under any circumstances, and a zero tolerance policy will be strictly enforced. He instructed concerned officials to ensure that the installation of tuff tiles in streets adheres strictly to prescribed standards, while also enhancing monitoring mechanisms.
He further emphasized that public convenience and safety must remain top priorities in all projects, with strict compliance to established SOPs to ensure a safer and improved environment for citizens.
Reaffirming his commitment, the Deputy Commissioner stated that development activities under the Lahore Development Programme will continue uninterrupted in neglected areas as well, to ensure balanced and equitable development across the entire city.