LAHORE: Lahore Development Authority (LDA) teams are intensifying efforts against the issue of unauthorised constructions and illegal commercialisation across key areas of the city.

Under the direction of Commissioner and LDA DG Muhammad Ali Randhawa, the operations target Ferozepur Road, controlled area, Avenue One, and Jubilee Town, with a firm commitment to curb such violations.

In line with the city’s commitment to urban planning and development guidelines, LDA staff took decisive actions that included demolishing and sealing multiple illegal constructions. These operations aim to rectify unauthorised alterations, encroachments, and illegal commercial activities.

Under the vigilant oversight of Additional DG Housing retired Capt Shahmeer Iqbal, and conducted by Director Town Planning VII, Syed Ali Abbas, the operations saw substantial progress. Plot No. 622/5 D One witnessed the removal of unauthorised alterations, as did Plot No. 283/2 B2, where illegal structures were promptly dismantled. Plot No. 255/2 B One experienced the same fate due to unauthorised changes, while Plot No. 55/17 B1 was sealed for encroachment.

Moreover, a shutter was demolished at Kacha Jail Road, targeting encroachment issues. Near Kacha Jail Road Flyover, ongoing illegal constructions were swiftly torn down, including an unauthorised basement. Illegal commercial shops near Hammonat Factory, Ferozepur Road, faced the same face as their shutters were taken down. Ferozepur Road near Pak Arab society also witnessed the removal of buildings erected without due authorisation.

Likewise, LDA Town Planning Zone V teams embarked on a similar crackdown in Avenue One and Jubilee Town. With a commitment to eliminating unauthorised commercial structures, LDA staff sealed over two dozen properties in these areas. Operations under the guidance of Additional DG Housing Shahmeer Iqbal, and Director Town Planning V Azhar Ali resulted in the sealing of workshops, oil stores, marble establishments and markets.

Plot No. 19 Block H and Plot No. 44 Block H in Avenue One were sealed during the operations. In Jubilee Town, Plot No. 757 Block B, Plot No. 627 Block A, and several other properties faced the same fate. Notices were issued to the affected properties multiple times before the operations commenced, ensuring adherence to due process.

Director Avenue-1 Rehan Athar, Director Town Planning Azher Ali, enforcement staff, and a police team were present to ensure the smooth execution of these operations.

The crackdown remains ongoing against unauthorised commercial activities and constructions across the city.

Published in Dawn, August 18th, 2023