LAHORE: Residents of Sargodha Cooperative Housing Society, located near Bhoptian Chowk, on Tuesday demanded an immediate ban on “illegal” commercial activities being carried out on residential plots in their neighborhood, alleging disruption to daily life and violation of housing regulations.

The residents submitted a formal complaint to Cooperatives Secretary Ahsan Waheed, stating that several residential properties were being used for commercial purposes in violation of the society’s approved residential status.

According to the complainants, the commercial activities include the operation of a marble factory, a private school, a parking stand, a boys’ hostel, a cricket net facility and a beverage distribution agency.

They allege that these activities are creating multiple problems for the community, including traffic congestion, noise and increased security concerns. The residents say that despite repeated complaints to relevant authorities, no effective action has so far been taken.

Taking notice of the complaint, the secretary forwarded the case to Joint Registrar Cooperatives (General) Mah-e-Munir with instructions to initiate action against those involved in unauthorised commercial use of residential plots.

Following the directive, Registrar Mehtab Waseem Azhar visited the housing society and assured the residents that action would be taken in accordance with the law.

Meanwhile, Assistant Joint Registrar Cooperatives Mr Lateef confirmed that commercial activities are not allowed on residential plots under cooperative housing regulations. He said the department had formally received the complaint and was examining the matter, after which enforcement action would be taken.

The residents urged the authorities to take prompt measures to restore the residential character of the area and ensure compliance with housing laws.

Published in Dawn, January 14th, 2026