Lahore Division

Lahore | ReNews Pakistan
Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari has stated that under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, the Punjab government is taking effective and practical steps for public welfare and development, the results of which will soon become visible to the public.
She said that under the government’s key initiative “Apna Khet, Apna Rozgar” (My Field, My Livelihood), approximately 160 billion rupees worth of state owned land will be leased out for a period of 10 years. The aim of the project is to convert barren land into cultivable areas, increase agricultural productivity, and create new employment opportunities.
According to Azma Bukhari, more than 88,000 families will benefit from this scheme, while the leased land will be strictly used for agricultural purposes. Farmers will also be provided with modern farming techniques and advisory support.
She further revealed that over 900 applications have already been received for the program. Land is being allocated to farmers worth between 2.5 and 4 million rupees, while in some areas, plots ranging from one to five acres are being distributed. In addition, a one-time grant of 50,000 rupees will also be provided to selected beneficiaries.
The Information Minister added that other initiatives such as the Kisan Card and Green Tractors scheme are also playing a significant role in the development of the agricultural sector in Punjab.
She also announced that Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has approved the establishment of a Film City in Punjab, for which 50 acres of land have already been allocated. The project will include modern studios and other state of the art facilities.
Azma Bukhari reaffirmed that the Punjab government will not leave the people alone and will continue its series of welfare and development projects without interruption.

Lahore: [Riaz Hussain ReNews Pakistan]
The Lahore Development Authority (LDA) Town Planning Wing has carried out a large scale enforcement operation against illegal commercial use and non payment of commercial fees, sealing a total of 168 properties across various residential and commercial schemes in the city.
On the directions of LDA Director General Tahir Farooq, the operation targeted multiple areas including PCSIR Society, College Road, Naz Town, UET Society, Gulberg, Faisal Town, Canal Road, Gulshan e Ravi and Allama Iqbal Town.
According to official sources, 90 properties in PCSIR Society, College Road, Naz Town and UET Society were sealed over illegal commercial activity. In Gulberg and Faisal Town, 19 properties were sealed, while 24 properties were closed in Canal Road and Gulshan e Ravi. During a recovery drive in Allama Iqbal Town, another 35 properties were sealed.
The sealed premises include private banks, schools, colleges, academies, bakeries, pharmacies, beauty salons, clinics, grocery stores, auto workshops, electrical shops, restaurants, food points, offices and other commercial establishments.
The operation was conducted under the supervision of Chief Town Planner I Asad uz Zaman and Chief Town Planner II Azhar Ali. LDA officials stated that indiscriminate action against illegal commercial structures and fee defaulters will continue in the future.

Lahore : ReNews Pakistan
Gujranwala has taken a clear lead in the development race, surpassing other districts of Punjab, with mega projects worth over Rs110 billion progressing at a rapid pace.
According to official data, Gujranwala’s development portfolio spans key sectors including transport, sanitation, rural development, urban rehabilitation, and inter-district connectivity. Officials say the pace of implementation is faster than in other districts, giving Gujranwala a prominent position.
The city’s largest project is a mass transit system worth Rs 62.738 billion, launched on February 15, 2026, and expected to be completed by December 5, 2026. For the current fiscal year, Rs 30 billion has been allocated, of which Rs 10 billion has already been released and fully utilized. The project has achieved 15% physical progress so far. Upon completion, it is expected to reduce traffic congestion and improve urban mobility.
In the sanitation sector, a Rs 30.129 billion program is underway under WASA, including improvements to the sewerage system, wastewater treatment plants, and road rehabilitation. The project has achieved 31% physical progress, while financial utilization stands at 18%.
Multiple sewerage projects are also in progress in Wazirabad, Ali Pur, and Kamoke, involving the construction of disposal stations and expansion of sewer networks. In some cases, financial utilization is high while physical progress remains in early stages, with expectations of acceleration in the coming months.
Under the “Model Village” program, several rural areas are being provided with improved water supply, drainage, and basic infrastructure, aiming to bring urban level facilities to rural communities.
Urban rehabilitation projects, particularly beautification schemes, are also making notable progress. These include the renovation of inner-city areas and commercial centers, with completion levels ranging from 45% to 69%, and deadlines expected to be met.
In the transport sector, projects such as the Kangniwala Flyover and the road from Awan Chowk to the M-2 Motorway via Nowshera Virkan are expected to significantly improve regional connectivity.
Officials state that timely fund releases, efficient utilization, and rapid implementation have placed Gujranwala at the forefront of Punjab’s development agenda. With major projects expected to be completed between late 2026 and mid-2027, significant improvements in transport, sanitation, and economic activity are anticipated.