LDA plans action against illegal constructions, fee defaulters

LAHORE: The Lahore Development Authority (LDA) has launched an operation to address the construction of illegal structures in the city, and secure full recovery of commercialisation fee from defaulters. 

The operation was initiated recently under the teams representing different zones of the Town Planning wing. 

“The objective of the operation is not only to stop the buildings (both residential and commercial) being constructed without approval from the LDA and ensure 100pc recovery from fee defaulters, but also to keep the city’s architecture well managed,” stated LDA Chief Town Planner Shakil Anjum Minhas. “Such operations also force people to get the maps of their buildings approved by paying the fee. It also brings people in the tax net, leading to an increase in the revenue.”

According to a report, several buildings in Zone-III have been demolished since 15th June, notably in Gulberg, Garden Town and Model Town.

Other buildings that were demolished (either partially or completely) were located in Model Town (Extension), Gulberg II and Garden Town. Two buildings on Peco Road were also torn down, whereas several schools and colleges in Gulberg were sealed. 

Illegal structures (including shops, a salon and a restaurant) on Multan Road, Iqbal Town, Mustafa Town and Sabzazar were also knocked down. 20 buildings were completely demolished, while 25 were sealed. 

Many illegally-built buildings on Ferozepur Road, College Road (Township), Punjab Housing Society, Avenue-1, Jail Road, Raiwind Road, Jubilee Town and Adda Plot were also pulled down. These included private housing schemes as well. 

“In a recent meeting, presided over by LDA DG Muhammad Ali Randhawa, it was decided that there would be no compromise on illegal constructions as they cause serious civic issues. Therefore, those involved in such activities must stop them or face action,” added Mr. Minhas.