LAHORE: The city administration and Lahore Metropolitan Corporation have intensified their anti-encroachment operations, sealing over 150 illegal properties in a major crackdown across multiple areas of the city.

Deputy Commissioner Syed Musa Raza said on Saturday, “The campaign is gaining momentum, and operations are now being carried out simultaneously in several parts of Lahore.”

The recent action focused on areas such as Baghbanpura, Shalimar Link Road, Dharampura, and major thoroughfares including Ring Road, Canal Road, Mughalpura, and Lal Pul, where illegal structures were demolished.

More than 150 shops in Jallo, Shah Jamal, Fatehpur, and along GT Road were sealed for violations, while commercial centres and markets were also targeted for unauthorised extensions and vendors blocking pedestrian pathways.

Authorities also launched action against visual pollution, removing a large number of illegal banners, hoardings, and posters in areas like Nawan Pul, Thokar Road, Temple Road, and Abid Market.

Operations continued in other localities such as Iqbal Town, Islampura, Noonarian Bazaar, and around Al-Rahim Store. Encroachments in busy zones like Mazang Adda, Haji Camp, the Secretariat, and Mall Road were also cleared, easing congestion and restoring access for pedestrians.

“The city’s original beauty is being restored, and Lahore is gradually being made an encroachment-free city,” said the DC, adding that the ultimate aim was to ensure access to quality urban facilities for residents.

Meanwhile, the Lahore Development Authority is also carrying out its own operations in areas under its control.

Published in Dawn, April 20th, 2025