The Lahore Master Plan 2050 is being reviewed afresh as planning authorities widen its scope to cover major urban zones, including the Central Business District, DHA, RUDA and cantonment areas. The latest meeting of the Lahore Development Authority Governing Body was told that the revised framework is being aligned with directions issued by the Lahore High Court.
The session was chaired by LDA Vice Chairman Mian Marghoob Ahmad, while LDA Director General Tahir Farooq briefed members on the progress of the long-term planning exercise. Consultants from Dar Al-Handasah shared updated planning and zoning proposals for Lahore and the wider division, with the emphasis on preparing for population growth, urban expansion and future housing demand.
Officials said the Lahore Master Plan 2050 is being shaped around transport access, pedestrian movement, green spaces, cultural heritage and water resources. Environmental pressures such as smog, unplanned industrial growth and wider socio-economic concerns were also discussed as part of the revised planning approach.
The governing body directed that public consultation be included in the process and that recommendations from the Environment Department be incorporated into the final draft. External review is already underway, with the Urban Unit and WWF examining the master plan and submitting their observations for adjustment before completion.
The meeting also reviewed planning for the entire Lahore Division, covering Lahore, Sheikhupura, Kasur and Nankana Sahib. In this context, officials said high-rise commercial and residential development would be encouraged to help meet the city’s future urban needs in a more structured way.
Another important update came on the integration of areas falling under RUDA, CBD, cantonment jurisdictions and DHA into the Lahore Master Plan 2050. Officials said the broader approach is aimed at creating a more coordinated framework for land use, growth management and infrastructure planning across the metropolitan region.
Separately, a briefing was given on the Housing Society Management System. Officials said private housing schemes must transfer their data to the PELRA software by June 30, while technical issues are being addressed with developers and other stakeholders.
The governing body also approved amendments to the policy framework and standard operating procedures related to the lease, sale and land use of public utility sites, marking another step in tightening planning and land administration in the city.
