Special Report Budget Economy

CDA Approves Rs152bn Budget — Highest in Authority’s 66-Year History

August 28, 2026

Islamabad — Updated August 28, 2026

On August 25, 2026, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) board chaired by Chairman Sohail Ashraf approved a Rs152 billion budget for fiscal year 2026-27, reported by Dawn as the highest in the authority’s history. (Dawn, Aug 26, 2026) That framing is worth testing rather than repeating. This report lays out the full budget, then examines three things a purely descriptive write-up would skip: whether the “record” claim survives scrutiny, whether CDA’s underlying finances support the number, and what CDA’s own track record suggests about how much of it will actually get spent.

1. The Budget at a Glance

Of the Rs152 billion total, Rs112 billion is earmarked for new and ongoing development works and Rs40 billion for non-development (administrative/running) expenditure.

CDA projects Rs152.5 billion in receipts: 74% from self-finance (plot auctions and taxes), 19% from revenue receipts, and 7% from an opening balance. By spending category, 74% goes to development, 24% to non-development, and 2% to the Metropolitan Corporation Islamabad (MCI). (Dawn, Aug 26, 2026)

Development allocation breakdown:

Allocation	Amount	Covers
26 priority projects	Rs55 billion	Not itemised in board disclosure
63 new projects	Rs16 billion	Sector development, infrastructure, sewerage, metro buses
246 ongoing works	Rs13.5 billion	Existing projects in progress
Pending liabilities	Rs7 billion	Legacy payment obligations
Lump-sum provisions	Rs19 billion	Contingency/unallocated

Source: Dawn, Aug 26, 2026. These five line items sum to Rs110.5bn against the reported Rs112bn development total — a gap that exists in the original board disclosure, not something introduced in this report.

Two other decisions came out of the same meeting: the board approved Package-II of the cleanliness/garbage collection contract, outsourcing collection and transport to the Losar landfill in Rawalpindi for four years, and approved 10 additional acres for Daanish School Kuri. (Dawn, Aug 26, 2026)

3. Can CDA Afford Its Own Ambitions? The Land Bank Problem

CDA covers most of its expenditure through auctioning commercial plots it has not built a durable revenue base beyond its land holdings, and conducts two to three auctions a year. (Dawn, Aug 26, 2026) This isn’t an incidental detail; it’s the mechanism financing 74% of the new budget.

Live examples from this month: a three-day commercial plot auction in early August generated Rs16.4 billion, with a single Blue Area plot fetching Rs9.1 billion in one bid. (ProPakistani, Aug 4, 2026; ProPakistani, Aug 6, 2026)

That volatility, dependent on land market appetite, which fluctuates with interest rates, political stability, and buyer confidence, sits underneath a headline number presented as fixed and stable.

The clearest sign that CDA’s cash position doesn’t match its ambitions: just one week before approving the Rs152bn “record” budget, the same board again chaired by Sohail Ashraf approved seeking a Rs20 billion bridge facility from the federal government. A board member told Dawn: “Today, we decided to seek a federal government loan for sector development.” (Dawn, Aug 18, 2026)

That report detailed the specific commitments straining CDA’s balance sheet: the Expressway Service Road (~Rs5bn), the Margalla Road Extension (~Rs3.8bn), the New Convention Centre (NICEEC, near Malpur, built for the 2027 SCO summit lowest bid Rs37 billion after a design revision added steel components), the first phase of a new cricket stadium (lowest bid ~Rs8.9bn), two underpass projects, and a planned Safari Park. (Dawn, Aug 18, 2026; Zameen News, 2026)

An authority that needs a federal loan to fund sector development while simultaneously approving its largest development allocation in three years is, at minimum, carrying more committed spending than its liquid revenue currently supports.

4. Does CDA Deliver What It Budgets? A Mixed Track Record

The most concrete reason for scepticism about the Rs152bn figure converting into real infrastructure is what happened to last year’s budget. FY2025-26 included Rs17 billion for three tourism projects a zipline, a safari park, and a cricket stadium near Sector D-12 none of which broke ground. (Dawn, Aug 26, 2026) That same year’s Rs90.2bn initial allocation was also revised down to Rs81bn mid-year, a roughly 10% cut from the original plan. (Dawn, Aug 26, 2026)

This year’s budget carries similar exposure: Rs7 billion is earmarked simply for pending liabilities (unpaid obligations from prior commitments), and 246 separate ongoing works are competing for a combined Rs13.5 billion, an average of roughly Rs55 million per project, which is thin for infrastructure works if spread unevenly.

Whether the 63 new projects and 26 priority projects move faster than last year’s stalled tourism package is the open question this report can’t answer in advance; it’s the one to watch over the coming fiscal year.

5. The Governance Backdrop

Sohail Ashraf, who also serves as Islamabad’s Chief Commissioner, became CDA chairman in April 2026, succeeding Muhammad Ali Randhawa. At that transition, an unnamed CDA official summarised the structural problem now facing a much larger budget: “How long will we continue selling plots for development projects and paying salaries? There should be a new model to end dependency on the sale of plots.” (Dawn, Apr 2, 2026)

That same report flagged unresolved issues the new chairman inherited: stalled development in sectors I-12, I-15, E-12 and C-15; unresolved compensation for land-affected persons in D-13, E-13, F-13, C-13 and C-15; a chronic water shortfall (CDA supplies ~70 million gallons daily against ~220mgd demand); and a 1960 master plan that was meant to be revised every 20 years but has instead seen 51 piecemeal amendments rather than a comprehensive update. (Dawn, Apr 2, 2026)

None of these structural issues is resolved by a larger budget number a bigger allocation for sewerage and infrastructure only helps if the underlying planning and delivery capacity keeps pace with the money.

Separately, CDA did make one real reform in this period: cutting the property transfer fee from 3% back to 1% in April 2026, reversing a July 2025 increase that had been criticised for raising transaction costs. (Wirasat Real Estate, Apr 2026; CDA official release, Apr 9, 2026)

6. What Expert and Market Commentary Exists

Independent economists and real estate analysts have not published commentary specifically reacting to the August 26 budget announcement as of this writing; it’s roughly 48 hours old. What is available:

On CDA’s financing model specifically: the two insider quotes above (the “new model to end dependency” comment from April 2026, and the loan-seeking board member’s comment from August 18) are the most substantive on-record structural critique available, both from within CDA itself rather than outside analysts.
On real estate market impact: analysts cited by Wirasat Real Estate said the property transfer fee reduction should lower transaction costs and improve transparency in Islamabad’s property market, though this reaction predates and is unrelated to the new budget. (Wirasat Real Estate, Apr 2026) Separately, property-market commentary has argued that specific infrastructure catalysts like the Margalla Road extension matter more for sector-level property values (D-12, E-11, D-13) than headline mega-projects like the cricket stadium, whose realistic completion window has reportedly slipped toward 2028-29. (Milkiyat, Jun 2026)
On the macro backdrop: economists Naved Hamid and Waqar Wadho, commenting on Pakistan’s federal FY2026-27 budget generally, described minimal room for growth under the current IMF programme. Hamid put it bluntly: “We don’t really have any room.” (Dawn, Jun 2026) That’s a comment on the national fiscal picture, not CDA specifically, but it frames a genuine tension: CDA is scaling up its own spending sharply in the same year the federal government is operating under IMF-driven austerity, worth watching for whether federal support (like the Rs20bn loan request) materialises on CDA’s timeline.

If independent analysis of this specific announcement is published in the coming days, it would be worth a follow-up.

7. How CDA Compares

Lahore Development Authority (LDA): approved Rs88.613 billion for FY2026-27, under 60% of CDA’s figure. (ProPakistani, Aug 19, 2026)
Sargodha Development Authority (SDA): approved Rs697.415 million — illustrating the scale gap between the federal capital’s authority and a smaller regional one. (APP, Jul 10, 2026)
Federal/ICT context: CDA’s budget is separate from the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Administration, the local-government body. The National Assembly separately approved Rs23.22 billion for ICT Administration’s operations, part of a Rs968.041 billion demands-for-grants package passed in June 2026, and the PSDP earmarked Rs21.82 billion for the Interior Division (up 69.2% from Rs12.9bn), covering ICT Administration among other departments. (Business Recorder, Jun 23, 2026; Business Recorder, Jun 13, 2026) None of this federal money is part of CDA’s Rs152bn.

8. Critical Assessment

Reading the full record together, three conclusions seem more defensible than the headline framing:

The record claim is overstated, not fabricated. Rs152bn is a genuinely large budget and likely the biggest in three years, but Rs156.35bn (2021-22) and a reported ~Rs308bn (2022-23) complicate any claim to an all-time high. The one number that may genuinely be a record is the Rs112bn development allocation, which edges out 2023-24’s Rs107.463bn.
The financing base hasn’t changed despite the bigger number. CDA is more reliant than ever on volatile land-auction income, and needed a federal loan request the week before approving this budget the exact dependency an internal official called for ending back in April.
Delivery risk is the biggest open question. With last year’s Rs17bn tourism package fully unbuilt, Rs7bn in pending liabilities carried into this year, and 246 ongoing projects sharing Rs13.5bn, the gap between what’s approved on paper and what gets built on the ground is the detail worth tracking through the fiscal year, not the size of the initial number.

For anyone using this budget as a signal for real estate or development planning in Islamabad, the more reliable indicators are likely to be specific, funded, in-progress projects (like the Margalla Road extension) rather than the aggregate Rs152bn figure or the political framing around it.

9. Sourcing & Verification Notes

Wikipedia’s infobox for CDA still lists Muhammad Ali Randhawa as chairman; multiple 2026 Dawn reports, including the budget story itself, consistently show Sohail Ashraf holding the post since April 2026. (Wikipedia)
The Rs110.5bn vs Rs112bn gap in the development breakdown (Section 1) is present in CDA’s own disclosure as reported by Dawn and has not been reconciled publicly.
The FY2022-23 Rs308bn figure (Section 2) was reported as a board estimate pending Federal Cabinet approval; this report could not confirm whether that exact figure was the final approved budget for that year.
CDA was established June 14, 1960, per the authority’s own ordinance page — used to calculate any “X years old” reference. (CDA official site)

Sources

Abbasi, K. (2026, August 26). CDA board approves record Rs152bn budget for fiscal year 2026-27. Dawn. https://www.dawn.com/news/2025266/cda-board-approves-record-rs152bn-budget-for-fiscal-year-2026-27

APP. (2026, July 10). SDA governing body approves 697.4m budget for FY2026–27. https://www.app.com.pk/punjab/sda-governing-body-approves-697-4m-budget-for-fy2026-27/

Business Recorder. (2026, June 13). Public Sector Development Programme: Rs21.82bn tagged for Interior Div. https://www.brecorder.com/news/40425303/public-sector-development-programme-rs2182bn-tagged-for-interior-div

Business Recorder. (2026, June 23). 10 demands for grants: NA approves Rs968bn budgetary allocations. https://www.brecorder.com/news/amp/40426898

Capital Development Authority. (2026, April 9). CDA cuts property transfer fee, plans cultural revamp and waste system overhaul in Islamabad. https://www.cda.gov.pk/cdaImagesGallery/capital-development-authority-cuts-property-transfer-fee-plans-cultural-revamp-and-waste-system-overhaul-in-islamabad

Capital Development Authority. (n.d.). CDA Ordinance, 1960. Retrieved August 28, 2026, from https://www.cda.gov.pk/cdaOrdinance

Capital Development Authority (Pakistan). (n.d.). In Wikipedia. Retrieved August 28, 2026, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capital_Development_Authority_(Pakistan)

Dawn. (2021, June 3). Record Rs156bn budget approved for CDA. https://www.dawn.com/news/1627259

Dawn. (2022, April 1). CDA budget for fiscal year 2022-23 estimated at Rs308bn. https://www.dawn.com/news/1682781

Dawn. (2026, April 2). New Capital Development Authority chief faces governance, planning, water challenges. https://www.dawn.com/news/1987739/new-capital-development-authority-chief-faces-governance-planning-water-challenges

Dawn. (2026, June 3). Budget 2026-27: Analysis: A budget to calm lenders or households? https://www.dawn.com/news/2004792

Dawn. (2026, August 11). CDA seeks 4,000 top-class hotel rooms in Islamabad ahead of 2027 SCO summit. https://www.dawn.com/news/amp/2021974

Dawn. (2026, August 18). CDA seeks Rs20bn federal loan for sector development. https://www.dawn.com/news/2023510/cda-seeks-rs20bn-federal-loan-for-sector-development

Geo News. (2026, June 14). Key takeaways from Federal Budget 2026-27. https://www.geo.tv/latest/668536-key-takeaways-from-federal-budget-2026-27

Milkiyat. (2026, June 29). Cheapest CDA sectors to invest in Islamabad 2026 guide. https://milkiyat.com/articles/cheapest-cda-sectors-to-invest-in-islamabad-2026

ProPakistani. (2026, August 4). CDA sells 4 plots for Rs. 13.8 billion in single day. https://propakistani.pk/2026/08/04/cda-sells-4-plots-for-rs-13-8-billion-in-single-day/

ProPakistani. (2026, August 6). CDA collects over Rs. 16 billion in 2 days from property auction. https://propakistani.pk/2026/08/06/cda-collects-over-rs-16-billion-in-2-days-from-property-auction/

ProPakistani. (2026, August 19). LDA approves Rs. 88.6 billion budget for 2026-27. https://propakistani.pk/2026/08/19/lda-approves-rs-88-6-billion-budget-for-2026-27/

The News. (2021, June 3). CDA approves Rs156 billion budget for next fiscal year. https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/843866-cda-approves-rs156-billion-budget-for-next-fiscal-year

The News. (2023, July 5). CDA approves Rs150.9 billion budget. https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1087208-cda-approves-rs150-9-billion-budget

Tribune. (2024, July 15). CDA approves Rs91.73b surplus budget for FY25. https://tribune.com.pk/story/2479769/cda-approves-rs9173m-surplus-budget-for-fy25

Wirasat Real Estate. (2026, April 15). CDA reduces property transfer fee in Islamabad from 3% to 1%. https://wirasat.com/cda-reduces-property-transfer-fee-in-islamabad/

Zameen News. (2026, August). CDA targets 4,000 top-class hotel rooms for SCO.

Saleha Ali

BBC-featured Content Specialist with a sharp eye for search intent and a proven ability to turn content into a growth engine. I leverage cutting-edge digital marketing tools to craft strategies that fuel organic traffic, amplify brand growth, and own the local SEO landscape, particularly across the competitive real estate market. I help brands dominate search rankings and convert visibility into measurable business success.

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Housing Finance Surges 84% in Approvals as Government Steps Up Access-to-Finance Drive

August 26, 2026

ISLAMABAD: Federal Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb chaired the fortnightly Access to Finance Steering Committee meeting on Monday, reporting sharp gains across housing, agriculture, SME and export financing since the close of FY26.

Total housing finance climbed from Rs294 billion at end-June to Rs307 billion by mid-August. Under the Wazir-e-Azam Apna Ghar Program, applications rose 52 percent to nearly 139,000, while approvals surged 84 percent to over 46,000, with approved financing nearly doubling to Rs279 billion. Loans disbursed increased 59 percent, crossing Rs38 billion.

The Committee credited the momentum to regulatory reforms, including the State Bank’s revised housing finance rules, a 90:10 loan-to-value ratio and a 65 percent debt-burden ratio, alongside passage of the Financial Institutions (Recovery of Finances) (Amendment) Act, 2026, aimed at strengthening mortgage recovery and lender confidence.

Agriculture borrowers grew to 3.37 million, adding roughly 115,000 since June, with sector financing steady near Rs1.26 trillion. The Zarkhez-e Asaan Zarai Qarza scheme for uncollateralised farm lending recorded over 58,000 registrations.

SME formal financing stood at Rs1.05 trillion across some 330,000 businesses, with a credit-scoring pilot underway across 13 banks. Officials set medium-term targets of Rs1.5 trillion in combined agriculture and SME financing by June 2027, rising to Rs2 trillion by June 2028.

On exports, the newly effective Performance Based Rebate on Incremental Exports offers exporters a 1 percent rebate for growth up to 10 percent, and 2 percent beyond that. The Pakistan Accelerated Vehicle Electrification Programme also gained pace, with EV deliveries tripling to over 1,500 units.

Aurangzeb called for tighter bank-wise monitoring and broader public awareness to sustain credit growth across housing, farming and enterprise sectors.

For more real estate news and special reports, visit Chakor.

Source:

Saleha Ali

Architecture Construction Developments Property Real Estate Urban Developments & Planning

10 Marla House Design: Complete Guide to Layouts, Elevations & Costs (2026)

August 26, 2026August 26, 2026

Among house designs in Pakistan for 10 marla plots, this size has become the default aspiration for middle- and upper-middle-class families, and it’s easy to see why. A 10 marla plot is large enough for a genuinely comfortable home, with room for separate living areas, a proper lawn, and covered parking, without the construction cost and upkeep of a kanal-sized property. This guide walks through everything that goes into a 10 marla house design: plot dimensions, single-story versus double-story layouts, floor plans, front elevation styles, basements, ceilings, and realistic 2026 construction costs.

Quick Facts: 10 Marla House Design at a Glance

Detail	Information
Plot size	2,250 sq ft (approx. 250 sq yards); common dimensions include 35×65, 40×56, and 45×50 feet
Covered area, single story	Roughly 1,600–1,900 sq ft
Covered area, double story	Roughly 2,800–3,400 sq ft
Typical bedrooms	3–4 (single story); 4–5 (double story)
Popular elevation styles	Modern/contemporary, Spanish, contemporary-classic hybrid
Estimated construction cost (2026)	Roughly PKR 8–12 million for a standard-to-mid-range finish; higher for premium finishes

Understanding the 10 Marla Plot

A marla is a traditional South Asian land measurement equal to 225 square feet. Ten marla therefore equals about 2,250 square feet, or roughly 250 square yards. In practice, housing societies lay this out in slightly different shapes; some plots are 45 feet by 50 feet, others 40 by 56, and older schemes often use a 35-by-65-foot frontage, but they all land close to the same total area.

This size is attractive because it offers more flexibility than a 5 marla plot. Instead of constantly trading one room off against another, a 10 marla house design gives you room for a formal drawing room and a separate family lounge, 3 to 5 bedrooms depending on the layout, a proper kitchen and dining area, and outdoor space that doesn’t feel like an afterthought.

10 Marla House Design: Single Story vs Double Story

The first real decision in any 10 marla house design is how many floors to build. Both options work well on this plot size; the right choice depends on family structure, budget, and how much you value outdoor space versus covered area.

10 Marla House Design Single Story

A single-story 10 marla house typically covers 1,600–1,900 square feet, leaving generous room for a lawn, porch, and parking. A typical layout includes 3–4 bedrooms (roughly 12×14 to 14×16 feet each), 2–3 bathrooms, a large drawing room, a family lounge, a kitchen with a breakfast area, and a storeroom.

This layout suits:

Older couples or households with elderly members who want to avoid stairs
Families who prioritise a large lawn or garden over extra bedrooms
Anyone building on a tighter budget, since single-story construction generally costs around 30–35% less than an equivalent double-story house
Families planning to add a second floor later as the household grows

10 Marla House Design Double Story

A 10 marla double-story house design pushes the covered area to roughly 2,800–3,400 square feet while still leaving room for a lawn and parking, which is why double-story remains the more popular choice on this plot size.

The ground floor usually holds the formal drawing room, a guest bedroom, the kitchen and dining area, a powder room, and parking, while the first floor holds the master suite and the remaining bedrooms, along with a family lounge and balconies.

Compared with a single-level layout, a 10 marla double-story house design roughly doubles usable floor area on the same footprint, which matters in cities where land prices keep climbing faster than household incomes.

It also creates natural separation between generations: parents on the ground floor, children’s families upstairs or between formal and everyday living spaces.

10 Marla House Map Design: Planning a Practical Layout

A good 10 marla house map design (locally called a “naqsha”) is about more than fitting rooms onto paper; it’s about controlling how people move through the house and how private and public areas relate.

A well-zoned ground floor generally separates the house into three areas:

Front (public): covered porch and parking, entrance foyer, drawing room, guest washroom
Middle (semi-private): dining area, kitchen, staircase, and sometimes a guest bedroom
Back (private/service): storeroom, service area, and the back lawn or terrace

This zoning means guests never have to walk through bedrooms to reach the drawing room, and cooking smells stay away from formal living areas. On the first floor of a double-story design, the same logic applies: the master suite typically sits furthest from the stairs for privacy, while a shared family lounge acts as the connecting space between bedrooms.

10 Marla House Design Front: Elevation Styles to Consider

The 10 marla house design front elevation is what defines the house’s character before anyone steps inside. With more frontage than a 5 marla plot, you have real room to make an architectural statement.

10 Marla Spanish House Design

A 10 marla Spanish house design remains one of the most requested elevation styles in societies like DHA and Bahria Town, in both Lahore and Islamabad. The style centres on arched windows and doorways, terracotta or clay-tile roofing accents, stucco-textured walls, and wrought-iron railings or balcony details.

Beyond the aesthetic appeal, the deep arches and extended eaves common to Spanish elevations also provide useful shade against Pakistan’s harsh summer sun, and stucco finishes add insulation.

The trade-off is cost: the ornamentation and detailing typically push finishing budgets higher than a comparable modern facade, and upkeep tends to be a bit more demanding over time.

Modern and Contemporary Elevations

Modern 10 marla elevations favour clean lines, flat or minimally sloped roofs, large glass panels, and a restrained material palette usually two or three finishes such as smooth plaster, stone veneer, and wood cladding- in neutral tones like grey, white, and charcoal.

This style has become the dominant choice in newer developments partly because it’s more budget-friendly than heavy ornamentation, and partly because younger homeowners tend to prefer its simplicity.

A contemporary-classic hybrid modern massing with a few traditional touches, like an arched entrance or textured accent wall, is a popular middle ground for families who want a house that reads as elegant without committing fully to either extreme.

Reading 10 Marla House Design Pictures Front View the Right Way

When browsing 10 marla house design pictures front view for inspiration, keep in mind that photographs can flatter a facade in ways that don’t always translate to real-life lighting; camera angle and even the time of day can make proportions look different than they are.

It helps to note which materials are used (not just the colour), how the elevation looks at both midday and evening, and whether the design still works without the landscaping and lighting shown in the photo.

Where possible, ask your architect for a 3D render of your actual plot rather than relying purely on a picture of someone else’s house.

10 Marla House Designs 3D: Visualizing Before You Build

Increasingly, homeowners request 10 marla house designs 3d before committing to construction, and for good reason. A 3D render shows how the elevation, proportions, and material choices will actually look on your specific plot, rather than leaving it to imagination from a 2D floor plan.

It’s especially useful for comparing two elevation options side by side, for instance, a Spanish versus a modern facade on the same layout and for overseas Pakistanis who can’t visit the site in person but want to approve the design with confidence before construction begins.

10 Marla Corner House Design: What Changes on a Corner Plot

A 10 marla corner house design comes with a distinct set of trade-offs compared to a mid-block plot. On the positive side, corner plots typically allow:

Two street-facing sides, which usually means a second, secondary elevation worth designing carefully
Better natural light and cross-ventilation, since the house isn’t boxed in by neighbours on both sides
More flexibility for additional parking or a side lawn
In many societies, a slightly larger permissible covered area than an equivalent mid-block plot

The trade-offs are worth planning for as well: corner plots have more boundary wall exposed to the street, which raises both construction cost and privacy considerations, and the extra frontage often carries a land-price premium. A well-designed corner house typically treats both visible facades as “fronts” rather than finishing one side and leaving the other plain.

10 Marla House Design with Basement

A 10 marla house design with basement is optional rather than standard, and whether it makes sense depends on your budget, the water table in your area, and your housing society’s bylaws; some societies restrict or don’t permit basements at all.

Where it is feasible, a basement is commonly used as a media or recreation room, extra storage, a home gym, or an additional bedroom suite, since it keeps noise and activity away from the main living floors.

Because a basement adds meaningfully to structural and waterproofing costs, it’s a decision worth locking in early, since retrofitting one after construction has started is rarely practical.

10 Marla House Design with Lawn

For most Pakistani families, a 10 marla house design with lawn isn’t a luxury add-on; it’s where evening tea happens, where kids play, and where winter barbecues take place. A front lawn of roughly 10×15 feet adds curb appeal and space for plants, while a back lawn or terrace of 15×20 feet or more works well for gatherings.

On corner plots, a side lawn is often possible, too. In double-story designs where ground-floor outdoor space is limited, a rooftop terrace is a common way to recover some green, open-air space without giving up covered area.

10 Marla House Ceiling Design

Ceiling treatment is one of the easier ways to add character to a 10 marla house design without major structural changes. Common approaches include:

False ceilings (gypsum board or POP) with recessed or cove lighting, often used to define the dining or TV lounge area
Double-height ceilings in the drawing room or entrance foyer, which create a sense of grandeur and work particularly well in double-story houses
Wooden panel or slat ceilings as an accent in lounges or bedrooms
Simple flat ceilings with layered lighting for a cleaner, more minimalist look, which tends to be the lower-cost option

Whichever direction you choose, decide on ceiling treatment during the design stage rather than after wiring and structural work are finalised, since recessed lighting and ceiling drops both need to be planned in advance.

Finding the Best 10 Marla House Design for Your Family

There’s no single best 10 marla house design; the right layout depends on who will live in it. A few honest questions help narrow things down:

Family size and structure: A joint family living across generations usually benefits from a double-story layout with clear separation between the ground floor and upper floor. A retired couple or young nuclear family may be better served by a single-story design.
Budget: Single-story construction costs meaningfully less, both in grey structure and finishing. If budget is tight, it’s often better to build a well-finished single-story house than a double-story shell that stays unfinished for years.
Plot type: A corner plot opens up design options a mid-block plot doesn’t have, but it also costs more.
Lifestyle priorities: Some families care more about a large lawn than a fifth bedroom; others would rather have a basement media room than a bigger garden.

Estimated Construction Cost for a 10 Marla House in Pakistan (2026)

Construction costs vary by city, material choices, and finish level, and they move with material prices over time, so treat these as a starting point rather than a fixed quote. As of recent 2026 estimates, a standard-to-mid-range finish 10 marla house typically runs somewhere in the PKR 8–12 million range, covering grey structure and finishing together.

Premium finishes better tiles, imported fixtures, a modular kitchen, and designer lighting push the total closer to PKR 15–20 million or more. Grey structure alone is generally quoted per square foot, and rates shift often enough that it’s worth getting a current quote from a contractor rather than relying on a number from an old article.

A few factors that move the number up or down:

City: Construction in Islamabad tends to run higher than in Rawalpindi or tier-2 cities, partly due to stricter building regulations.
Design complexity: Multiple roof levels, unusual angles, and heavy ornamentation (like an elaborate Spanish elevation) add to both material and labour costs.
Basement or corner-plot features: Both add to structural and waterproofing costs beyond a standard mid-block, above-ground layout.
Finish level: Finishing costs can easily match or exceed grey structure costs, so it’s the area where budgets most often run over.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Underestimating parking needs. With most families now owning more than one vehicle, plan for at least two covered spaces more on a corner plot.
Skimping on storage. Store rooms, built-in wardrobes, and under-stair storage are easy to cut in early design but hard to add back later.
Ignoring orientation and ventilation. Where the sun hits the house affects both comfort and cooling costs; this is worth discussing with your architect before finalising the layout.
Overcomplicating the elevation. Multiple roof levels and excessive protrusions can add 20–30% to costs while creating long-term maintenance headaches.
Deciding on a basement or ceiling treatment too late. Both require planning before structural and electrical work begins.

FAQs – 10 Marla Plot in Pakistan

What is the standard size of a 10 marla plot in Pakistan?

A 10 marla plot measures approximately 2,250 square feet, or about 250 square yards. Common dimensions include 45×50, 40×56, and 35×65 feet, depending on the housing society.

Should I choose a single-story or double-story 10 marla house design?

Double-story designs are more popular because they roughly double the covered area on the same plot, which suits growing or joint families. Single-story designs cost less to build and suit elderly residents or families who prioritise lawn space over extra bedrooms.

Is a basement a good idea for a 10 marla house?

It can be, provided the local water table and your housing society’s bylaws allow it. Basements work well as media rooms, storage, or extra bedroom space, but they add meaningfully to construction cost and need to be planned from the start.

Is Spanish-style elevation still popular for 10 marla houses?

Yes. A 10 marla Spanish house design remains a common choice in societies like DHA and Bahria Town, prized for its arches, stucco walls, and wrought-iron detailing, though it typically costs more to finish than a modern facade.

How much does it cost to build a 10 marla house in Pakistan in 2026?

Based on recent estimates, a standard-to-mid-range finish generally costs roughly PKR 8–12 million, while premium finishes can push the total to PKR 15–20 million or more. Costs vary by city and material prices.

Does a corner plot need a different house design?

Yes. A 10 marla corner house design typically needs two well-designed facades instead of one and benefits from better light and ventilation, but it also requires more boundary wall and usually costs more than a mid-block plot.

Conclusion

A 10 marla house design offers one of the best space-to-cost ratios for Pakistani homeowners, spacious enough for real comfort, compact enough to stay manageable. Whether you lean toward a single-story home with a generous lawn, a double-story house built for a growing family, or a Spanish-style elevation with a finished basement, the plot size can accommodate nearly any lifestyle with the right planning. The details that matter most floor plan, zoning, elevation style, ceiling treatment, and realistic cost estimates- are worth settling before construction starts, since most of them are far cheaper to change on paper than after the foundation is laid.

For more information on City View Apartment Interior Design Pakistan and wooden door price, please visit Chakor.

Saleha Ali

Citadel 7

Akbari Mandi Lahore: Location, Timings and History

August 25, 2026

Akbari Mandi Lahore is one of the oldest wholesale markets in South Asia. For nearly 500 years, traders have bought and sold spices, grains, and dry fruit here, and the market is still where much of Punjab looks for its daily rates. If you are planning a visit, sourcing dry fruit in bulk, or simply curious about the history behind the name, this guide covers everything: the Akbari Mandi Lahore location, opening timings, what to buy, and how the market has changed over the past five centuries.

Quick Facts About Akbari Mandi

Detail	Information
Location	Walled City of Lahore (Androon Lahore), between Delhi Gate and Akbari Gate, along Circular Road
Established	16th century, during the reign of Mughal Emperor Akbar (1556–1605)
Known for	Dry fruits, spices, herbs, grains, and pulses, sold wholesale and retail
Scale	Widely reported to have around 800 shops carrying more than 1,000 product lines
Typical hours	Late morning to late evening; most shops open between 10 AM and 11 AM
Nearby landmarks	Delhi Gate, Shahi Hammam, Shah Hamdan Mosque, Lahore Fort

What Is Akbari Mandi? A 500-Year-Old Market in the Walled City

The Founding, Under Mughal Emperor Akbar

Akbari Mandi takes its name from Jalal-ud-din Muhammad Akbar, the third Mughal emperor. It was established near Delhi Gate in the 16th century, deliberately outside the residential heart of the old city, so that traders and their caravans could operate without disrupting the neighbourhoods inside.

Over time, the market grew until it reached Akbari Gate as well, and today it sits between the two.

One often-repeated piece of local history is that the British East India Company approached Akbar’s court asking to handle the spice trade on the empire’s behalf. According to accounts of the period, the request was turned down, and Akbari Mandi continued to operate as an independently run trading hub for centuries afterwards.

From Grain Caravanserai to Asia’s Largest Spice Market

Akbari Mandi began life mainly as a grain market and caravanserai, a resting point for trading caravans passing through Lahore. Over the following centuries, it expanded into grains, pulses, herbs, chemicals, and eventually spices and dry fruit, which are what most visitors associate with the market today.

It is commonly described as one of Asia’s largest and oldest wholesale spice and dry-fruit markets, and traders say prices agreed here often set the tone for retail rates across the rest of Punjab.

Ownership of the shops has also changed with the region’s history. Older traders recall that before 1947, most shops in the Akbari Gate area were run by Hindu families, with only a handful of Muslim-owned businesses. After Partition, Muslim traders took over the market, and it grew into the largest grain and food market in the province.

Despite decades of digital commerce and online ordering, a large share of business at Akbari Mandi is still done the traditional way, on relationships and handwritten ledgers, rather than through formal contracts.

Akbari Mandi Lahore Location and How to Get There

Akbari Mandi Location at a Glance

The Akbari Mandi location sits inside the Walled City of Lahore, in the area locals call Androon Lahore. It runs along and around Circular Road, between two of the city’s historic gates, Delhi Gate and Akbari Gate.

Both gates serve as entry points into the market, and either one works as a landmark if you’re asking for directions or entering the address into a map app.

The immediate area is dense with other historic sites. The Shahi Hammam (Royal Bath) and Shah Hamdan Mosque are a short walk away, Akbari Gate itself sits opposite Lahore Fort, and Masjid PS Kotwali is another nearby marker locals use for directions.

Getting There: Access and Parking

Because Akbari Mandi sits inside a centuries-old walled city, its lanes were never built for cars. The market has no dedicated parking lot, and most visitors leave their vehicles along Circular Road before walking in.

Within the market itself, only small hand-carts and, historically, horse-drawn vehicles were permitted to move goods during business hours, which gives some sense of how narrow the internal lanes are.

If you’re visiting for the first time, a few practical tips help:

Park on Circular Road or a nearby side street rather than trying to drive further in.
Consider a rickshaw or taxi for the final stretch, especially during peak trading hours.
Wear comfortable shoes. The lanes are uneven, and you’ll be walking, not driving, through most of the market.
Expect crowds and some traffic congestion around the entrances, particularly in the late morning and afternoon.

Akbari Mandi Timings: When to Visit

Reported opening hours vary slightly by source and by shop, but most accounts agree that Akbari Mandi gets going in the late morning, usually between 10 AM and 11 AM, and stays open into the evening. Individual shopkeepers set their own hours, so a few stalls may open earlier or close later than others.

Akbari Mandi Dry Fruit: Why the Market Is Famous Nationwide

Although it started out as a grain market, Akbari Mandi dry fruit trading is now what most people, inside and outside Lahore, associate with the name. Ask a wholesaler or home cook in Punjab where to buy dry fruit in bulk, and Akbari Mandi is usually the first answer.

The market is Punjab’s primary distribution point for dried fruit and nuts, and rates agreed here tend to influence pricing in other cities across northern Pakistan.

Popular Dry Fruits Available

Shoppers browsing the Akbari Mandi dry fruit section will typically find:

Almonds (Badam)
Walnuts (Akhrot)
Cashews (Kaju)
Pistachios (Pista)
Dried figs (Anjeer)
Dates (Khajoor)
Peanuts (Moongphali)
Pine nuts (Chilgoza) and raisins (Kishmish)

How Wholesale Pricing Works

Prices at Akbari Mandi change daily, based on supply, season, and international commodity trends, so any specific per-kilo figure goes out of date quickly.

As a general rule, wholesale rates here tend to run noticeably lower than retail prices elsewhere in the city, which is why both individual households and small shopkeepers travel here to buy.

For the most current rates, it’s best to check directly with vendors, many of whom now share daily price updates over WhatsApp or social media, or to check live commodity listings that track Akbari Mandi’s grain and produce rates alongside other Pakistani markets.

Prices at Akbari Mandi also follow a fairly predictable seasonal pattern. Rates are generally lower in winter, from around November through February, when supply is higher, and they tend to climb in summer.

Demand spikes further around Ramadan and Eid, so buying ahead of these periods, rather than during them, usually works out cheaper.

Beyond Dry Fruits: Spices, Grains and More

Spices

Dry fruit may get the most attention, but Akbari Mandi is still, at its core, a general wholesale market. Walking through its lanes, you’ll also find:

Spices and herbs: cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, black pepper, cumin, coriander, turmeric, saffron, star anise, and dozens of other spices used in South Asian cooking, along with less common ingredients used in traditional remedies.
Grains and pulses: Basmati rice from Punjab, red chillies sourced from Sindh, and lentils imported from countries including Canada and Australia.
Household and industrial goods: Some sections of the market, particularly around Akbari Gate, have historically dealt in chemicals and other bulk household supplies alongside food items.

Akbari Mandi’s Role in Lahore’s Commercial Landscape

Beyond its retail appeal, Akbari Mandi remains one of Lahore’s most economically significant commercial districts and a popular wholesale market in Lahore. The surrounding area is home to more than 100 commercial buildings, and the market’s daily trading volume has long been counted among the highest of any wholesale market in the province.

Its influence on pricing is significant enough that Pakistani financial market reporting tracks Akbari Mandi’s grain and commodity rates separately, alongside other major exchanges.

That commercial weight is also reflected in the local property market. Shops in and around Akbari Mandi and Akbari Gate regularly appear on Pakistan’s major real estate portals, both for sale and for rent, making the area an active, if niche, segment of Lahore’s commercial real estate market.

Restoration and Heritage Revival

Akbari Mandi’s age brings real challenges: narrow lanes never designed for modern traffic, limited parking, ageing infrastructure, and drainage systems strained by decades of continuous use. Trader associations and the market’s own vendors have publicly acknowledged these issues for years.

In response, the Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA), working with the Aga Khan Cultural Service – Pakistan (AKCS-P), has included Akbari Mandi in a broader heritage conservation effort that also covers sites such as Lahore Fort and Wazir Khan Mosque.

The plan announced a pilot project to restore and modernise a section of the spice market near the Shahi Hammam and Delhi Gate, with the stated goal of upgrading infrastructure while preserving the market’s historic character.

In a progress review between WCLA and AKCS-P in April 2026, work on Akbari Mandi and related Walled City sites was continuing, with local trader groups pressing to extend the restoration beyond the pilot section to the wider market.

FAQs – Akbari Mandi

Where is Akbari Mandi located?

Akbari Mandi is located inside the Walled City of Lahore, between Delhi Gate and Akbari Gate, along Circular Road. Both gates can be used as entry points and as landmarks for directions.

What is Akbari Mandi Lahore famous for?

Akbari Mandi Lahore is best known as one of Asia’s largest and oldest wholesale markets for spices and dry fruit. It also trades in grains, pulses, herbs, and other bulk household goods, and has done so for close to 500 years.

What are Akbari Mandi’s opening timings?

Most shops open between 10 AM and 11 AM and stay open into the evening, though exact hours vary by shop.

Can individuals buy from Akbari Mandi, or is it wholesale only?

Individuals are welcome, even though the market’s core business is wholesale. Many Lahore households shop here directly to take advantage of lower rates than they’d find at neighbourhood retail stores.

Conclusion

Whether you’re planning a bulk purchase, researching the Walled City’s commercial history, or simply want to see one of Lahore’s oldest working markets for yourself, Akbari Mandi remains a genuinely worthwhile stop, provided you go prepared for narrow lanes, no parking, and a bit of friendly bargaining.

For more information on the top 10 wholesale markets in Lahore, please visit Chakor.

Saleha Ali

News Construction Developments Urban Developments & Planning

Punjab Bans Excavation of Newly Built Roads, Approves Development Projects Across Province

August 25, 2026

LAHORE: CM Punjab Maryam Nawaz has prohibited excavation or damage to newly constructed roads across Punjab, directing improved coordination between government departments to prevent repeated digging after infrastructure projects are completed.

The directive was issued during a meeting reviewing own-source revenue development schemes across several divisions. Authorities were also instructed to ensure that manholes and sewerage covers remain level with road surfaces, while newly developed roads must include proper drainage systems, signage and lane markings.

The provincial government approved a wide range of infrastructure and urban improvement projects covering Lahore, Multan, Bahawalpur, Sahiwal, Rawalpindi and Faisalabad divisions.

In Lahore, the government approved improvement plans for several major roads, along with beautification work at Lakshmi Chowk. Authorities were also directed to enhance sections of the Orange Line corridor along Multan Road through cleaning, plantation and mural work.

Development schemes involving road construction and widening, sewerage systems, drainage, solar streetlights and public facilities were approved for districts including Kasur, Sheikhupura, Multan, Vehari, Lodhran, Bahawalpur, Sahiwal and Faisalabad.

Rawalpindi district received approval for 13 projects, while additional schemes were cleared for Attock, Murree, Jhelum and Chakwal.

The chief minister also directed departments to establish clear completion timelines for development projects and barred officials from collecting charges from shopkeepers without prior approval.

For more real estate news and special reports, visit Chakor.

Source:

DAWN

Saleha Ali

Economy Entertainment

12 Best Wholesale Markets in Lahore: Complete Guide

August 24, 2026

Lahore has been a trading city for centuries, and nowhere is that more obvious than in its wholesale markets. From fabric sold by the bale to spices measured in sacks, the wholesale markets in Lahore supply shopkeepers, boutique owners, and bulk buyers from across Pakistan and plenty of everyday shoppers who just want retail-beating prices.

This guide covers the wholesale markets in Lahore that matter most: what each one sells, where to find it, and how to shop there without overpaying. Whether you’re a retailer stocking a shop or a buyer looking for a good deal, this list will point you to the right bazaar.

What Makes Lahore’s Wholesale Markets Different

Most of Lahore’s biggest wholesale markets sit inside or just outside the Walled City, a dense network of bazaars connected by narrow lanes that has operated as a trading hub since the Mughal era.

Each market inside this network tends to specialise: one street sells only fabric, the next only spices, another only shoes a structure that goes back generations and still shapes how the city trades today.

Newer wholesale hubs have grown up outside the Walled City too, especially for electronics and mobile phones, but the underlying logic is the same: buy in bulk, expect to negotiate, and go to the market built for exactly what you need.

Quick Comparison: Wholesale Markets in Lahore at a Glance

Market	Known For	Area	Best For
Shah Alam Market	General goods, toys, cosmetics, plastics	Circular Road, Walled City	Retailers and bulk household buyers
Azam Cloth Market	Fabric, bridal wear	Inside Delhi Gate, Walled City	Fabric wholesalers, tailors, designers
Akbari Mandi	Grains, spices, dry fruits	Near Akbari Gate, Walled City	Grocers, restaurants, food businesses
Hall Road	Electronics, mobile accessories	Egerton Road, near Regal Chowk	Tech retailers and repair shops
Moti Bazaar	Wholesale footwear	Walled City	Shoe shop owners
Landa Bazaar	Imported second-hand clothing	Near Delhi Gate, Walled City	Budget clothing buyers and resellers
Ichhra Bazaar	Ready-to-wear clothing, lawn suits	Ferozepur Road, Ichhra	Budget fashion buyers
Urdu Bazaar	Books, stationery, printing paper	Near Anarkali	Bookshops, schools, publishers
Kinaari & Gumti Bazaar	Embroidered and bridal cloth	Inside Shah Alam Gate	Bridal wear shops
Hafeez Centre	Formal electronics, mobile phones	Main Boulevard, Gulberg III	Buyers who want warranty and fixed prices
Anarkali Bazaar	Jewellery, shawls, handicrafts	Mall Road	General shoppers and gift buyers
Rang Mahal Food Market	Fresh produce, dry fruits, spices	Rang Mahal Chowk	Restaurant and catering supply

The 12 Best Wholesale Markets in Lahore

1. Shah Alam Market

Shah Alam Market, also called Shahalmi, is the largest and best-known of the wholesale markets in Lahore. It sits on the site of the old Shah Alam Gate, one of the Walled City Lahore’s original thirteen gates, named after an 18th-century Mughal emperor. Today it holds close to 10,000 shops selling toys, cosmetics, kitchenware, plastics, garments, and electronics.

It’s the first stop for small shop owners looking to fill their shelves with everyday goods at low prices, though the crowded lanes and constant negotiation take some getting used to on a first visit.

Location: Circular Road, near Delhi Gate, Walled City

2. Azam Cloth Market

Azam Cloth Market is widely regarded as the largest wholesale cloth market in Asia, with a network of more than 25,000 shops packed into the lanes inside Delhi Gate. It was relocated to its current site in 1953, near Wazir Khan Mosque, and has supplied fabric to buyers across Pakistan and neighbouring countries ever since.

Every fabric category is here: cotton, silk, chiffon, linen, khaddar, sold by the bale rather than the metre, which makes this the go-to wholesale cloth market in Lahore for tailors, designers, and boutique owners buying in volume.

Location: Inside Delhi Gate, near Rang Mahal, Walled City

3. Akbari Mandi

Akbari Mandi is one of the largest spice and grain markets in Asia and the main source for wholesale grains, pulses, spices, herbs, and dry fruits in Lahore. It sits near Akbari Gate and takes its name either from Emperor Akbar or from the sheer scale (“akbari”) of its trade; accounts differ, but the market’s age isn’t in question.

Grocers, restaurant owners, and food distributors from across Punjab buy here, and the smell of fresh spice sacks is part of the experience.

Location: Off Circular Road, near Akbari Gate, Walled City

4. Hall Road

Hall Road is Lahore’s and arguably Punjab’s largest wholesale market for electronics and mobile accessories. What began decades ago as a hub for CDs, DVDs, and software has evolved into a dense concentration of shops selling phones, laptops, components, chargers, and repair parts.

Retailers and repair shop owners come here for bulk pricing on accessories and spare parts, and it remains the cheapest wholesale market in Lahore for anything electronics-related.

Location: Egerton Road, near Regal Chowk, Mall Road area

5. Moti Bazaar

Moti Bazaar is the Walled City’s dedicated wholesale shoe market, home to roughly 1,200 shops. Shoes bought here are supplied to retailers across Pakistan, and some are exported abroad. The market’s name is said to date back to the Mughal period.

Shop owners looking to stock footwear at bulk rates, rather than individual shoppers, make up most of the buyers here.

Location: Walled City, easily reached via Delhi Gate or Akbari Gate

6. Landa Bazaar

Landa Bazaar is Lahore’s wholesale market for imported second-hand clothing, footwear, blankets, and accessories, sold in bulk at prices that undercut every other clothing market on this list.

Items arrive as donated clothing from countries abroad, are sorted, and sold often by weight or in bundles to shopkeepers and individual bargain hunters alike.

It sits close to Delhi Gate and the Railway Station, near Urdu Bazaar, and includes smaller speciality sections for shoes and ready-made clothes within the main market.

Location: Near Delhi Gate, Walled City

7. Ichhra Bazaar

Ichhra Bazaar, on Ferozepur Road, blends wholesale and retail shopping for ready-to-wear clothing, lawn suits, and home textiles. Prices here run noticeably lower than the boutiques of Gulberg or DHA, which is why it draws heavy crowds especially on weekends and ahead of wedding season.

The market is also known for its shoe section, with dozens of shops selling locally made leather footwear at affordable rates.

Location: Ferozepur Road, Ichhra

8. Urdu Bazaar

Urdu Bazaar is Lahore’s wholesale and retail hub for books, stationery, and printing supplies. Textbooks, novels, office supplies, and printing paper are all sold here, and it functions as a wholesale source for bookshops and schools across the city, not just a retail stop for individual readers.

Location: Near Anarkali Bazaar

9. Kinaari & Gumti Bazaar

Kinaari Bazaar and the adjoining Gumti Bazaar, both inside Shah Alam Gate near Rang Mahal Chowk, specialise in embroidered and bridal cloth. Kinaari Bazaar has operated for more than a century and supplies embroidered fabric to larger markets across Lahore and beyond, while Gumti Bazaar a more recent addition is known for unstitched bridal wear, including pieces with minor flaws sold at a discount, and for shops that rent out heavy bridal outfits.

Location: Inside Shah Alam Gate, near Rang Mahal Chowk

10. Hafeez Centre

Hafeez Centre is Lahore’s main formal alternative to Hall Road, a multi-storey plaza on Main Boulevard, Gulberg, where authorised dealers sell mobile phones, laptops, and electronics at wholesale and retail rates.

Floors are organised by product category, the environment is air-conditioned, and pricing is generally fixed rather than negotiated, which appeals to corporate buyers and anyone who wants a warranty.

Location: Main Boulevard, Gulberg III

11. Anarkali Bazaar

Anarkali Bazaar is Lahore’s oldest surviving market, roughly 200 years old, and blends retail and wholesale trade in clothing, jewellery, shawls, and handicrafts. It’s split into Old Anarkali, known for food stalls, and New Anarkali, known for clothing and gifts. While not purely a wholesale market, many of its shops sell in bulk to smaller retailers from outside the city.

Location: Mall Road, near Lahore Museum

12. Rang Mahal Food Market

Rang Mahal Food Market, near Rang Mahal Chowk within the Shah Alam Market area, is a wholesale source for fresh produce, spices, and dry fruits. Restaurant owners and grocers buy here in bulk, and the market runs alongside the general trade of Shah Alam rather than as a separate destination.

Location: Rang Mahal Chowk, Shah Alam Market area

How to Shop Smart at – Best Wholesale Markets in Lahore

Buying from the wholesale markets in Lahore rewards a bit of preparation. A few habits make the difference between a good deal and an average one:

Negotiate, always. Opening prices are rarely final. Start lower than what you’re willing to pay and work up.
Carry cash. Most shops in the Walled City markets deal in cash only; card and mobile payment acceptance is limited outside plazas like Hafeez Centre.
Check quality before you commit to volume. Inspect fabric, electronics, or produce closely; bulk purchases are harder to return.
Buy in genuine bulk for the best rates. Per-unit prices drop as order size goes up; ask about minimum quantities before negotiating.
Go on a weekday morning. Markets are calmer and easier to navigate before the afternoon crowds arrive.
Plan for narrow lanes. Comfortable shoes matter more than they sound like they should most of these markets are walking-only once you’re inside.
Know your market before you go. Each bazaar specialises in something specific; walking into the wrong one wastes a trip.

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings are the easiest time to shop the wholesale markets in Lahore; shops are open, stock is fresh, and the lanes aren’t yet at full capacity. Fridays around prayer time see many shops close briefly, and weekends bring the heaviest foot traffic, particularly at Ichhra Bazaar and Anarkali.

FAQ – 12 Best Wholesale Markets in Lahore

What is the biggest wholesale market in Lahore?

Shah Alam Market is generally considered the largest general wholesale market in Lahore, with close to 10,000 shops. For fabric specifically, Azam Cloth Market is the largest wholesale cloth market in Asia.

Which is the cheapest wholesale market in Lahore?

It depends on what you’re buying. Landa Bazaar offers the lowest prices for clothing and footwear, while Shah Alam Market and Akbari Mandi offer strong bulk rates on household goods and food staples.

Can individuals buy from wholesale markets in Lahore, or only retailers

Most wholesale markets in Lahore welcome individual buyers alongside retailers. Savings improve with volume, but there’s usually no requirement to be a registered shop owner.

What is the best wholesale cloth market in Lahore?

Azam Cloth Market is the top choice for bulk fabric across all categories. For embroidered and bridal cloth specifically, Kinaari and Gumti Bazaar are better suited.

Is Hall Road a wholesale market?

Yes. Hall Road functions as Lahore’s main wholesale market for electronics, mobile phones, and accessories, alongside retail trade.

Do Lahore’s wholesale markets accept card payments?

Most shops in the Walled City markets are cash-only. Formal plazas like Hafeez Centre are more likely to accept cards or mobile payments, but it’s safest to carry cash everywhere else.

Final Thoughts – 12 Best Wholesale Markets in Lahore

The best wholesale markets in Lahore aren’t just shopping destinations; they’re some of the city’s oldest working neighbourhoods, each built around a single trade that’s been refined over generations. Whether it’s fabric by the bale at Azam Cloth Market, spices by the sack at Akbari Mandi, or electronics by the carton on Hall Road, there’s a market built for exactly what you need. Go in knowing which one fits your list, negotiate with confidence, and Lahore’s wholesale markets will reward the trip.

Saleha Ali

News Economy Property Real Estate Investment Urban Developments & Planning

CDA Advances Rs1.4bn Kashmir Chowk Underpass Project in Islamabad

August 24, 2026

ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has moved forward with plans to construct an underpass at Kashmir Chowk on Murree Road, with the project estimated to cost around Rs1.4 billion.

The proposed underpass, located at Dhokri Chowk near Islamabad Club, is intended to improve traffic movement at the busy intersection. Under the planned arrangement, vehicles travelling from the Serena side towards Rawalpindi will use the underpass, while traffic heading towards Murree will pass over its upper section.

CDA has opened technical bids submitted by Habib Construction Services and M/s Kamran Khan (Kundi Group). During the evaluation process, Kundi Group was declared non-responsive and subsequently filed a grievance with the civic authority. Financial bids will remain unopened until the complaint is decided. Officials expect the matter to be resolved within 15 days.

Separately, CDA is also preparing another underpass at the junction of Faisal Avenue and Margalla Road, where the PC-I is being finalised before the tendering process begins.

The projects form part of CDA’s broader road infrastructure programme aimed at improving traffic flow across Islamabad. Meanwhile, the federally funded 10th Avenue project remains incomplete, with about half of its work still pending despite its original 2024 completion target.

For more real estate news and special reports, visit Chakor.

Source:

DAWN

Saleha Ali

News Economy

Large-Scale Manufacturing Grows 4.98% in FY26, June Output Declines 3.48%

August 19, 2026

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Large Scale Manufacturing Industries (LSMI) sector recorded growth of 4.98 percent during FY26 (July-June 2025-26) compared to the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year, according to provisional data released under the Quantum Index of Manufacturing (QIM), based on the 2015-16 base year. The index reached 120.55 for the full fiscal year.

For June 2026, the QIM stood at 108.83, reflecting a year-on-year decline of 3.48 percent and a month-on-month contraction of 6.08 percent compared to May 2026.
Automobiles emerged as the strongest-performing sub-sector, registering growth of 57.77 percent for FY26 and 50.53 percent in June alone. Cement production rose 7.36 percent for the fiscal year and 9.76 percent in June, while petroleum products posted gains of 9.70 percent and 0.70 percent, respectively.

Cotton cloth output increased marginally by 0.17 percent for both the month and the year, while cotton yarn recorded cumulative growth of 1.00 percent despite a 1.85 percent decline in June.

Garments registered fiscal-year growth of 5.49 percent, notwithstanding a 13.45 percent contraction in June. Iron and steel production declined 7.84 percent for the year and 11.75 percent in June. Fertiliser output fell 1.99 percent cumulatively despite a marginal 0.83 percent rise in June.

Automobiles contributed the largest share to overall growth, adding 1.56 percentage points, followed by food (1.21), garments (0.91), petroleum products (0.72), cement (0.41) and electrical equipment (0.37). These gains were partially offset by declines in pharmaceuticals (-0.54), iron and steel products (-0.34), chemicals (-0.20) and textiles (-0.11).

Sectors posting fiscal-year growth included food, beverages, tobacco, wearing apparel, paper and board, coke and petroleum products, rubber products, non-metallic minerals, fabricated metal, computer and electronics products, electrical equipment, machinery, automobiles, other transport equipment and furniture, while textiles, leather, wood products, chemicals, fertilisers, pharmaceuticals and iron and steel products recorded declines.

For more real estate news and special reports, visit Chakor.

Source:

Profit Pakistan

Saleha Ali

Economy Entertainment

Tollinton Market Lahore: Location, Timings & 2026 Guide

August 18, 2026August 18, 2026

Tollinton Market is really two different markets that share one name and one history. The first is a restored Victorian-era heritage building on Mall Road. The second is a busy, working bazaar on Jail Road known today as New Tollinton Market. This guide covers both, in full, so you never have to wonder which one you need.

What Is Tollinton Market?

Tollinton Market is one of Lahore’s oldest and most recognizable market names. It started life in 1864 as a colonial exhibition hall on Mall Road. Over more than 150 years, the name has stretched to cover a heritage site, a relocated commercial bazaar, and an entire road in central Lahore.

Today, when locals say “Tollinton Market,” they usually mean the birds, pets, and meat market on Jail Road, not the original building near the Lahore Museum.

History of Tollinton Market Lahore

The story of Tollinton Market Lahore begins with an exhibition, not a market.

On January 20, 1864, the Punjab Exhibition of Arts and Industry opened on Mall Road, inaugurated by Lieutenant Governor Robert Montgomery. The building was designed by Francis Fowkes of the Royal Engineers, using a prefabricated iron-and-glass style borrowed from London’s exhibition halls. Construction was overseen by Assistant Commissioner Henry Phillips Tollinton, and the building eventually took his name.

After the exhibition closed, the hall held Lahore’s early museum collection until the present-day Lahore Museum opened across the road in 1894. In the 1920s, municipal engineer Sir Ganga Ram remodeled the empty hall into a covered public market. It grew into one of Lahore’s busiest fruit, vegetable, and general goods bazaars for decades.

By the mid-20th century, the building had started to deteriorate. Traders began drifting away through the 1980s, and in 1992 the Lahore Development Authority built a dedicated new market complex on Jail Road. This became New Tollinton Market, absorbing the poultry, meat, bird, and pet trade that Lahoris now associate with the name.

Back on Mall Road, the original building faced demolition plans in the 1990s. A five-year campaign (1993–97), led by the Lahore Conservation Society along with artists and civil society groups, saved the structure.

Restoration work followed in the early-to-mid 2000s, and the building reopened as a heritage exhibition space, closely linked to the National College of Arts (NCA), that today hosts craft bazaars and art shows.

Old Tollinton Market vs. New Tollinton Market Lahore

Because people often search for both markets together, here’s a side-by-side comparison.

Feature	Old Tollinton Market	New Tollinton Market Lahore
Built	1864	1992
Location	Mall Road, next to Lahore Museum	Jail Road, near Ferozepur Road junction
Function today	Heritage exhibition hall, craft bazaar	Working birds, pets, poultry & meat market
Best for	History, architecture, exhibitions	Bulk poultry, meat, birds, and pets
Atmosphere	Quiet, restored colonial building	Busy, commercial, hands-on bazaar

New Tollinton Market Lahore: What You’ll Find on Jail Road

This is the Tollinton Market most visitors mean, and it earns its reputation as one of Lahore’s most distinctive markets.

Across roughly 300 shops, traders sell:

Live chickens, with on-site butchering
Mutton, fish, and frozen meat items
Birds of nearly every kind, including parrots and love birds
Pets such as rabbits, cats, and dogs
Bird feed, cages, and pet supplies

It’s a genuinely commercial market rather than a curated shopping street, which makes it popular with restaurant owners, poultry traders, and bulk buyers, alongside everyday households and pet enthusiasts.

The market has historically drawn criticism over cleanliness and smell around its meat and poultry sections, something the 2025 upgrade project (covered below) was specifically designed to address.

Tollinton Market Lahore Location

The Tollinton Market Lahore location depends on which market you mean:

Old Tollinton Market sits on Mall Road, immediately next to the Lahore Museum and close to the National College of Arts and Anarkali Bazaar. It’s easy to spot from Mall Road itself, tucked between the Museum and the older commercial stretch toward Anarkali.

New Tollinton Market Lahore is on Jail Road, near the Ferozepur Road junction and close to Mozang Chowk and the Shadman area. This is also referred to informally as Tollinton Market Road, and it functions as a well-known landmark for giving directions in that part of the city.

How to Reach Tollinton Market Lahore

Getting to New Tollinton Market Lahore is straightforward from most parts of the city, since Jail Road and Ferozepur Road are major arteries.

From Ichhra: Take Ferozepur Road toward Shadman and Jail Road. The market sits near the Jail Road–Ferozepur Road intersection, roughly a 10–15 minute drive.
From Mall Road or the old city: Head south toward Mozang Chowk, then onto Jail Road.
By public transport or rickshaw: The market is a well-known local landmark, so mentioning “Tollinton” to any driver is usually enough.

To reach the Old Market on Mall Road, the nearest reference points are the Lahore Museum and Anarkali Bazaar, both well served by Metro Bus and easily reached from central Lahore.

Tollinton Market Timings

Shops at New Market generally open around 8 AM and stay active until about 9 PM. Mornings tend to be quieter, with fresher stock arriving early, while evenings draw larger crowds.

As with most Lahore bazaars, individual shop hours can vary slightly, especially around Friday prayer times, so it’s worth calling ahead if you’re making a special trip for a specific trader.

The Old Market, run as a heritage and exhibition space, follows standard museum and gallery hours rather than bazaar timings, and is best checked directly before visiting for a scheduled exhibition.

The 2025 Upgrade: A Rs 190 Million Rehabilitation

In 2025, the Lahore Development Authority completed a major upgradation and rehabilitation project at New Market, aimed at fixing the cleanliness and infrastructure issues the market had long been known for.

The Rs 190 million project covered:

A redesigned market facade
Improved lighting and ventilation systems
Replacement of internal fiberglass shades
New flooring throughout the complex
An upgraded electricity supply system, carried out with LESCO

The LDA also converted a number of existing shops into model units, intended to set a design and hygiene standard for other traders to follow. Heritage voices in the city welcomed the cleaner look but stressed that ongoing maintenance, particularly solid waste management, will determine whether the improvements last.

Real Estate & Commercial Value

Beyond the market itself, the surrounding stretch commonly referred to as Tollinton Market Road is a recognized commercial location in central Lahore. Its position near Jail Road and Ferozepur Road puts it within easy reach of banks, restaurants, colleges, hostels, and hospitals, which has kept commercial plots and properties in the area attractive to investors and business owners over the years.

For anyone tracking Lahore’s inner-city commercial corridors, Tollinton Market Road remains a useful reference point: high footfall, strong connectivity, and a location that has stayed commercially relevant even as the city’s newer commercial hubs have expanded outward.

Visiting Tips

Go early in the morning for the freshest stock and smaller crowds.
Bring a mask if you’re sensitive to the smell around the meat and poultry sections.
Wear closed shoes rather than sandals; the ground can be wet or uneven.
Bargaining is normal and expected, especially for birds, pets, and bulk purchases.
If you’re buying live animals or birds, ask about diet and care requirements before you leave.

FAQs

Where is Tollinton Market located?

There are two locations. The historic Old Tollinton Market is on Mall Road next to the Lahore Museum. New Tollinton Market Lahore, the working bazaar, is on Jail Road near the Ferozepur Road junction.

What is sold at New Tollinton Market Lahore?

Poultry, mutton, fish, frozen meat, birds, and pets, including cats, dogs, and rabbits, along with pet supplies and bird feed.

What are Tollinton Market’s timings?

Most shops operate from around 8 AM to 9 PM daily, with mornings generally quieter than evenings.

Is the Old Tollinton Market open to visitors?

Yes. It now functions as a heritage exhibition space and craft bazaar, and is open to the public for scheduled exhibitions and events.

How far is Tollinton Market from Ichhra?

About 10 to 15 minutes by road via Ferozepur Road toward Shadman and Jail Road.

Conclusion

Tollinton Market Lahore carries more than 150 years of history in one name, split across two very different places. The original Mall Road building tells the story of colonial-era Lahore and its long fight to preserve itself.

The New Market on Jail Road tells a different story altogether: a working, evolving bazaar that just received its biggest upgrade in decades. Whether you’re heading there for business, a pet, or simply to see what the fuss is about, knowing which one you’re looking for is the first step.

This was all about Tollinton Market. For more information on famous markets in Lahore, such as Liberty Market, visit Chakor blogs.

Saleha Ali

News Construction Developments Property Real Estate Urban Developments & Planning

Punjab Freezes Funds of 40 District Councils, Cancels 286 Rawalpindi Schemes

August 18, 2026

RAWALPINDI: The Punjab government has frozen the funds of all 40 district councils across the province, including the Rawalpindi District Council, following the rollout of a new local government system, a move that has led to the cancellation of all 286 small and large development schemes previously undertaken by the Rawalpindi council.

District council funds are now being transferred to the newly established tehsil councils, with contractors previously registered at the district level being re-registered with their respective tehsil councils. Only schemes in the final stages of completion have been permitted to continue; all other grants and development funds now fall under tehsil council control.

The Rawalpindi District Council had earlier approved a budget of Rs7.84 billion, of which nearly Rs3 billion was allocated for local-level grants and development schemes.

With district council operations wound down, tehsil councils and the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) are executing new water-supply and grant-funded projects in Rawalpindi. WASA has taken over water-supply schemes previously managed by the district council, including the Chahan Dam Water Supply Project. The project is designed to deliver 12 million gallons of clean water daily to a population of roughly one million.

Separately, under the Punjab chief minister’s Clean Drinking Water pilot initiative, pipeline networks and filtration plants have begun supplying clean drinking water to underdeveloped areas of Rawalpindi and Chaklala.

The restructuring marks one of the most significant administrative shake-ups of Punjab’s local government framework in recent years, shifting fiscal and developmental authority from district-level bodies to the newly empowered tehsil councils.

For more real estate news and special reports, visit Chakor.

Source:

Express Tribune

Saleha Ali