Sound investment decisions are built on economic understanding. At Chakor, our Economy section covers the macroeconomic trends, policy shifts, market movements, and financial developments that directly influence real estate, construction, and investment across Pakistan.
Whether you are tracking inflation, interest rates, or GDP growth, we break down what matters and what it means for your decisions.
 ISLAMABAD: The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has issued a revised regulatory framework for housing finance, allowing banks and development finance institutions (DFIs) to finance up to 90 percent of a property’s value, up from previous limits under earlier circulars. The new regulations, which took effect immediately upon issuance, supersede several circulars issued between 2019 and 2021, and the central bank has directed all banks and DFIs to ensure strict compliance.
Under the updated rules, the maximum loan-to-value ratio has been set at 90:10, meaning eligible borrowers can secure financing covering up to 90 percent of a property’s assessed value.Â
Housing finance may be extended for a range of purposes, including purchasing a house, apartment, or plot; constructing on an already-owned plot; renovating or expanding an existing home; and installing renewable energy systems within housing units.Â
The maximum repayment tenor for standard housing finance is fixed at 30 years, while renewable energy financing has a shorter maximum tenor of 10 years.
To safeguard borrowers from over-leveraging, the SBP has capped total monthly loan repayments, including the proposed housing finance and any other consumer loans, at 65 percent of a borrower’s net disposable income.Â
Banks and DFIs must also obtain updated credit information reports through the State Bank’s Electronic Credit Information Bureau or a licensed private credit bureau, with approved proxy models available to assess informal income where applicable.
Additional safeguards include mandatory documentation of property title and ownership, lenders’ formal acknowledgement of received documents, and a general requirement that financed properties be mortgaged in the lender’s favour.Â
For loans up to Rs. 5 million, a lien supported by a Green Property Certificate may serve as sufficient security. The framework also mandates comprehensive insurance or Takaful coverage equal to the outstanding finance amount, and lenders must clearly disclose coverage terms and charges to borrowers.
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LAHORE: The Lahore Development Authority‘s governing body has approved an Rs88.613 billion budget for LDA and the Traffic Engineering and Planning Agency (TEPA) for the 2026-27 fiscal year, setting a revenue target of Rs47 billion. The decision was made during a meeting chaired by LDA Vice Chairman Mian Marghub Ahmed, with senior officials from housing, finance, local government and WASA departments in attendance.
Under the approved budget, Rs10 billion sourced through a Punjab government loan has been earmarked for structural road projects, while Rs6.3 billion will fund Annual Development Programme schemes.
Development work in LDA City has been allocated Rs12.5 billion, with a further Rs13.5 billion set aside for sustainable development and urban regeneration initiatives. LDA Avenue 1 will receive Rs4 billion, and TEPA has been granted a separate Rs3.5 billion budget alongside amendments to existing building and zoning regulations.
On the revenue side, the authority has set targets of Rs17 billion from town planning activities and Rs19.2 billion from property sales and allotments, with LDA City expected to contribute Rs15 billion of that figure.
The governing body also greenlit several new initiatives, including a pilot maintenance-charge scheme for residential and commercial properties in LDA Avenue 1, Jubilee Town and LDA Enclave, with services offered free for an initial two-month period.
Additionally, officials approved plans to develop commercial plots on 118 kanals along Ferozepur Road near Arfa Karim Tower for a proposed technology park, and allocated Rs100 million toward a child-friendly city initiative undertaken in partnership with UNICEF.Â
Other approvals included launching a new residential and commercial sector within LDA City and installing solar lighting across several city blocks. Officials credited the authority’s leadership for achieving a record Rs32 billion in revenue during the previous fiscal year, the highest total in LDA’s history.
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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.
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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?Â
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?Â
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?Â
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?Â
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?Â
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.
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Firdous Market is located in one of Lahore’s busiest commercial areas. It is a well-known spot for shopping, dining, and everyday errands. In this guide, we have covered everything shoppers, residents, and property buyers need to know about the market in 2026, from its exact location to the best time to visit for deals.
Hussain Chowk, Liberty Market, Gaddafi Stadium, Punjab Stadium
Postal Area
Gulberg III, 54660 — the market has its own local post office branch
Listed As
A neighborhood supermarket and general market on mapping platforms
Known For
Jewelry, fabric and clothing, bakery items, and general retail
Firdous Market Location
It is located inside Gulberg III, one of Lahore’s busiest and most established commercial neighbourhoods. The market sits at the end of M.M. Alam Road, right where it meets Main Boulevard Gulberg near Hussain Chowk.
Anyone approaching from Liberty Market only needs to continue down M.M. Alam Road to reach the Market directly. That makes it an easy stop for shoppers already exploring Gulberg’s retail belt.
Gaddafi Stadium and Punjab Stadium both sit around two kilometres to the northwest, and the residential pocket of Dharampura lies a short drive north.
Directions to Firdous Market
From Main Boulevard Gulberg
Most routes into the area run through Main Boulevard Gulberg.
Continue past the Liberty Market Roundabout.
Follow Noor Jehan Road toward Hussain Chowk.
At Hussain Chowk
Firdous Market is located on one side of the intersection.
M.M. Alam Road branches off from the other side.
Hussain Chowk is the easiest landmark to use when approaching from either direction.
From M.M. Alam Road
Coming from the Gulberg Main Market side, follow M.M. Alam Road toward Hussain Chowk.
Firdous Market sits near the far end of M.M. Alam Road at the Hussain Chowk side.
Nearby Areas
Ghalib Market is within a short walk of Hussain Chowk.
Liberty Market is also located nearby, making Hussain Chowk a convenient central reference point.
A Quick Overview
Firdous Market Lahore has built its reputation over the decades as a practical, everyday shopping bazaar rather than a mall-style experience. Unlike the enclosed retail centres that have opened across the city in recent years, it keeps its open-air, walk-in-and-browse character.
Buyers come here and easily move between small shops, comparing prices and inspecting goods by hand, the way Lahore’s older bazaars have always worked.
The market shares its immediate surroundings with two of Gulberg’s other well-known commercial addresses: Liberty Market and M.M. Alam Road.
Significance of Firdous Market Within Gulberg III
Firdous Market Gulberg is more than a standalone shopping strip. It works as the connecting point between several of the area’s commercial hubs. M.M. Alam Road runs from Gulberg’s Main Market straight through to this market, and the road along the way is lined with restaurants, clothing brands, and beauty studios that have turned M.M. Alam Road into a dining and nightlife destination in its own right.
Gulberg III also doubles as Lahore’s central business district, so the market benefits from heavy daily foot traffic. Office workers, residents of nearby housing blocks, and visitors heading to Liberty Market or M.M. Alam Road for dinner all pass through or near the market at some point in their day.
What to Shop for at Firdous Market
Jewellery and Accessories
The Market is home to established jewellery outlets, including shops that also carry Dupatta Gali’s bridal and formal-wear accessories. This makes it a practical stop for wedding season shopping without travelling into the older parts of the city.
Fabric, Cloth, and Tailoring
Cloth and fabric retailers operate directly out of Firdous Market and the adjoining Liberty Market lanes, offering everything from everyday fabric to formal and bridal material. Many outlets work alongside tailors in the same lanes, so fabric and stitching can often be sorted in a single visit.
Bakery, Confectionery, and Everyday Food Items
Bakery and confectionery outlets operate inside Firdous Market’s commercial plazas, serving the steady stream of office-goers and residents who pass through daily. These shops make the market a convenient stop for everyday grocery runs as well as planned shopping trips.
General Retail
Beyond the speciality shops, Firdous Market carries the usual mix of general retail found in Lahore’s older commercial markets: small electronics counters, mobile accessory stalls, and household goods vendors catering to daily needs.
Mapping platforms even list Firdous Market as a neighbourhood supermarket, which reflects its role as a practical, everyday shopping stop rather than a purely fashion-driven destination.
The market is also well embedded in the neighbourhood’s day-to-day life off the shop floor. Firdous Market is a recognised locality tag on classifieds platforms, where nearby residents list mobiles, electronics, furniture, bikes, and cars for sale, which points to how established the address is within its surrounding residential blocks and not just as a place people pass through to shop.
Best Time to Visit
Most shops around Firdous Market open by mid-morning and stay active well into the evening, giving visitors a wide window to plan around. Weekday mornings tend to be quieter, which makes them a good time to browse without crowds and negotiate prices calmly. Evenings and weekends draw heavier footfall, since many shoppers combine a Firdous Market visit with dinner along M.M. Alam Road.
For the best deals, timing a visit around seasonal sales, especially ahead of wedding season and Eid, tends to bring more competitive pricing across the fabric and jewellery outlets. As with most open-air markets in Lahore, comparing prices across two or three shops before committing, and being willing to negotiate, remains the most reliable way to get the best deal at Firdous Market.
Firdous Market vs Liberty Market and M.M. Alam Road
It helps to see how Firdous Market fits alongside its two closest neighbours:
Firdous Market is the smaller, more localised shopping stretch, best known for jewellery, fabric, and everyday retail.
Liberty Market, directly connected via Dupatta Gali, is the larger and more famous destination for wardrobe shopping, from tailors to cobblers.
M.M. Alam Road connects the two and is where Lahore’s dining and boutique culture takes over, lined with restaurants and fashion outlets.
Together, the three form one of Gulberg’s most walkable commercial corridors. A single outing can cover shopping, tailoring, and a meal without needing a car in between stops.
Real Estate Prices and Investment Potential in 2026
The Market’s location inside Gulberg III places it in one of Lahore’s most consistently high-value real estate zones. Property portals list homes directly under the Firdous Market locality tag rather than folding them into the broader Gulberg III listings, which shows how established the address has become in its own right.
Gulberg III’s residential plot prices for 2026 vary widely by size: 5 Marla plots have traded between roughly PKR 23 lakh and 27 lakh, while 10 Marla plots have ranged from about PKR 2.5 crore to 4.25 crore. Location and block within Gulberg III can shift pricing significantly.
Houses listed directly under Firdous Market follow a similar premium. A 5 Marla house currently listed under the Market locality is priced near PKR 2.25 crore, in line with wider Gulberg III house prices, which run from roughly PKR 1.19 crore for smaller 5 Marla homes up to PKR 4.8 crore and beyond for larger plots.
Commercial plots command an even steeper premium given the area’s footfall and central location. Citywide 2026 market data places Gulberg among Lahore’s premium zones, with plot prices reaching PKR 55–75 lakh per marla and rental yields on Gulberg apartments running between 6% and 8%, among the highest in the city.
For investors, this combination of steady footfall, central business district status, and consistently high rental yields makes the Firdous Market area one of the more resilient pockets of Lahore’s property market, even as prices in peripheral zones stay comparatively flat.
As Pakistan’s leading real estate developer, Chakor continues to track these central Lahore corridors closely, helping buyers and investors understand where value is holding and where it is moving next.
Tips to Get the Best Deals
Visit on a weekday morning to shop without crowds and negotiate more comfortably.
Compare prices at two or three shops before finalising a jewellery or fabric purchase.
Plan fabric and tailoring together, since many tailors operate in the same lanes as the fabric shops.
Check nearby Liberty Market and Dupatta Gali on the same trip, since they sit within walking distance.
Time bigger purchases, like bridal wear or formal fabric, around off-peak weeks before wedding season to avoid inflated pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Firdous Market located?
The Market is located in Gulberg III, Lahore, at the point where M.M. Alam Road meets Main Boulevard Gulberg, near Hussain Chowk.
What is Firdous Market known for?
Firdous Market is known for jewellery, fabric and cloth shopping, bakery and confectionery outlets, and general retail, alongside its close connection to Liberty Market’s Dupatta Gali.
Is Firdous Market the same as Liberty Market?
No, though the two sit right next to each other and are often treated as one shopping stretch. Firdous Market is smaller, while Liberty Market is the larger, better-known destination for wardrobe shopping.
What are Firdous Market’s timings?
Most shops in the area operate roughly from mid-morning through to around 10 PM, though individual shop hours can vary.
Is property near Firdous Market a good investment?
Gulberg III, where Firdous Market is located, remains one of Lahore’s premium real estate zones in 2026, with above-average rental yields and consistent demand. That makes it a relatively resilient area for property investment compared to peripheral zones of the city.
Does Firdous Market have a post office?
Yes. Firdous Market has its own post office branch, serving the Gulberg III, Block G area.
Can I find property for sale directly in Firdous Market?
Yes. Property portals list houses and plots under the Firdous Market locality itself, with pricing that tracks closely to wider Gulberg III rates.
Final Word
The market may not carry the mall-scale footprint of Lahore’s newer retail centres, but its location inside Gulberg III, right alongside Liberty Market and M.M. Alam Road, keeps it relevant for shoppers looking for jewellery, fabric, and everyday essentials in 2026.
Whether the goal is a quick shopping trip or a longer look at property values in the surrounding blocks, this Market remains one of central Lahore’s most convenient and consistently active commercial corners.
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ISLAMABAD: The federal government is finalising a comprehensive development package to overhaul Pakistan’s construction sector, centred on the creation of a Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) and an extension of the Defect Liability Period (DLP) from one year to three years.
Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Establishment Division Senator Ahad Khan Cheema chaired a high-level meeting attended by Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani, Federal Secretary for Housing and Works Captain (R) Mahmood, the Managing Director of the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority, and representatives of the Construction Association of Pakistan (CAP).
The proposed CIDB will combine development and regulatory functions, overseeing industry standards, contractors, and consultants through a joint public-private platform. Officials confirmed plans to raise the DLP further to five years over time, aiming to hold contractors accountable for long-term structural quality.
For the first time, consultants will face legal and financial accountability for design flaws under the new framework, a gap CAP representatives said had long undermined project quality, since only contractors currently face default penalties.
Officials are also evaluating a dedicated Construction Development Bank (CDB) to address financing and guarantee bottlenecks. Cheema has directed the Ministry of State for Finance to begin formal talks with the State Bank of Pakistan and the Pakistan Banks Association to assess its feasibility.
The broader package includes tax incentives and revised import-export policies designed to encourage technology adoption and strengthen local construction capacity. The CIDB framework will be submitted to the Prime Minister for final approval.
Cheema said the reforms aim to ensure public infrastructure investment is not compromised by substandard execution, positioning Pakistan’s construction sector to meet international regulatory and quality benchmarks.
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ISLAMABAD: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has cut the tax rate applicable to exporters from 2 percent to 1.25 percent, as part of a wider tax relief package worth Rs361 billion extended during the current fiscal year, officials informed a Senate panel on Monday.
The disclosure was made during a briefing to the Senate Standing Committee on Finance’s subcommittee, chaired by Pakistan Peoples Party Senator Talha Mahmood. FBR representatives told the committee that the rate cut for exporters was intended to ease the cost of doing business and encourage greater investment, noting that the prime minister had separately approved Rs80 billion in dedicated relief for the export sector.
Addressing concerns that Pakistan’s tax burden could push multinational companies to scale back or exit the country, FBR officials maintained that prevailing rates were unlikely to trigger a significant outflow of investment, and indicated that further reductions would be considered in the years ahead.
The briefing also touched on broader reforms carried out in recent years, including reduced taxation for salaried individuals and the lowering or abolition of the super tax, which officials said had provided around Rs55 billion in relief.Â
The corporate tax rate for non-banking companies currently stands at 29 percent, while a faceless assessment system has been introduced this year to limit direct interaction between taxpayers and tax officials.
Officials further told the committee that no businessperson had faced arrest or an FIR over tax matters during the year, and that dedicated committees had been set up to resolve concerns raised by the business community. Taxpayers, they added, could avoid audit proceedings by clearing dues, and filers now have the option to revise submitted returns.
Senator Mahmood, meanwhile, voiced displeasure over the finance secretary’s absence from the meeting, saying he would pursue a privilege motion and raise the matter with the prime minister.
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ISLAMABAD: The federal cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, has approved the National Housing Policy 2026 together with a corresponding implementation plan. Under the policy, housing projects will be required to fully observe zoning regulations, with priority given to vertical construction to improve land-use efficiency.Â
Officials noted the policy was drafted with input from local and international experts, along with federal, provincial, and development-sector stakeholders, aiming to ensure sustainable and quality housing nationwide. Energy-efficiency standards have also been folded into the policy framework to align new construction with environmental goals.
The cabinet was additionally briefed on the Apna Ghar housing scheme, revealing that banks have sanctioned loans worth Rs220 billion for prospective homeowners, of which more than Rs32 billion has already been disbursed.
In a separate move, the cabinet approved withdrawing Pakistan’s earlier notice to terminate its 1981 bilateral investment treaty with Sweden, based on a summary presented by the Board of Investment.
On the technology front, the Ministry of Information Technology introduced the draft Pakistan Information Security Framework 2026 (PISF 2026), developed under the CERT Rules 2023. The framework is designed to establish unified baseline cybersecurity standards with centralized oversight. The cabinet approved it as a key policy document and directed its timely implementation.
Further ratifications included proposed amendments to the Pakistan Oil Refining Policy 2023, aimed at upgrading refineries to strengthen energy supply, along with decisions made during recent Economic Coordination Committee and Cabinet Committee on Legislative Cases meetings.
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ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) collected Rs. 16.44 billion during the opening two days of its ongoing commercial plot auction at Islamabad’s Jinnah Convention Centre, with a third and final round of bidding still ahead. The first day alone brought in Rs. 13.81 billion, while the second added a further Rs. 2.63 billion to the tally.
Tuesday’s proceedings featured strong demand for agricultural land along Murree Road, where Agro Farm No. 18 sold for Rs. 1.212 billion and Agro Farm No. 17-A brought in Rs. 966 million.
Commercial shop units in the Blue Area Parking Plaza also performed well, with three individual units fetching between roughly Rs. 147 million and Rs. 154 million apiece.
Not every offering found a buyer, however. Two commercial plots in Sector C-13, a site that has remained mired in controversy for nearly two decades, failed to attract meaningful bids despite CDA officials anticipating combined proceeds exceeding Rs. 10 billion.
The sector was originally acquired under the 2007 Land Sharing Policy, but many of the original landowners say they are still waiting to be compensated or resettled.
Affected residents have raised objections to CDA continuing to market land from the sector while their claims remain unresolved. According to landowner accounts, the CDA Board approved a plan in 2023 to compensate eligible families with residential plots in the adjacent Sector C-14, and revenue authorities subsequently completed ownership verification.
Despite this, no allotments have reportedly been issued. The dispute has also drawn intervention from the Islamabad High Court, which ordered CDA to settle outstanding compensation, though claimants say that order has yet to be enforced.
The auction is scheduled to conclude on Thursday, with the authority expressing hope that the final day will generate additional revenue from the sale of remaining commercial properties across the capital.
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Auriga Market is one of Lahore’s most recognisable shopping destinations, known for its mix of clothing outlets, bridal wear shops, and everyday retail under one roof. Tucked into the heart of Gulberg, Auriga Market Lahore draws shoppers from across the city looking for affordable fashion, home essentials, and a lively local shopping experience. This guide covers the market’s history, its exact location, what to shop for, prices, timings, and how the old and new sections differ.
Key Information About Auriga Market Lahore
Detail
Information
Area
Gulberg, Lahore
Nearest intersection
Main Boulevard Gulberg & Zahoor Elahi Road
Known aliases
Auriga Complex, Auriga Centre, New Auriga Shopping Mall
Common misspelling
Origa Market
Floors
Multi-storey (3+ floors in the newer sections)
Typical price range
Roughly PKR 1,500 to PKR 30,000 for most clothing items
Weekday timings
Monday to Saturday, late morning to late evening
Sunday timings
Afternoon start, open later into the night
Parking
Available, limited during peak hours
History of Auriga Market
Auriga Market traces its roots back several decades to a small cluster of shops in Gulberg. What is now referred to as the old Auriga Market Lahore began as a modest commercial strip before growing into a full multi-storey complex.
The market takes its name from the original Auriga Complex, one of the first multi-storey commercial buildings to come up in the area at the time. That early structure set the tone for the retail development that followed.
Old Auriga Market vs. New Auriga Shopping Mall
Over the years, newer retail blocks were built alongside the original structure, and today the market is generally split into two identifiable parts:
Old Auriga Market Lahore – the original complex, still referenced by name in property listings and by long-time traders in the area. It houses smaller, more established shops, several of which have operated for decades.
New Auriga Shopping Mall – the newer, larger multi-storey section built later on the same stretch, spread across multiple floors with a higher shop count and a stronger focus on bridal wear and unstitched fabric.
Both sections sit close enough to each other that most visitors treat them as one continuous market, even though they have distinct commercial identities on paper.
Auriga Market Lahore Location
The Auriga Market Lahore location sits right at the intersection of Main Boulevard Gulberg and Zahoor Elahi Road, placing it firmly in one of Lahore’s most central and well-connected localities.
Its position makes it an easy stop for residents of Gulberg, Model Town, and Garden Town, and it is close to Ferozepur Road as well, which brings in shoppers from further afield.
How to Get There
Mode of transport
Notes
Private car
Direct access via Main Boulevard Gulberg; parking is limited during peak hours
Ride-hailing (Careem, Uber)
Widely used and generally the most convenient option
Public bus
Regular routes pass through Gulberg
Rickshaw
Easily available for short-distance trips within Gulberg and nearby areas
Shopping Categories at Auriga Market
Auriga Market is best known for its clothing and fashion offerings, but the range extends well beyond that.
This is the market’s biggest draw. Well-known names such as Bareeze, Khaadi, and Alkaram Studio have outlets here alongside independent shops selling local and imported fabric.
Tailoring shops are common too, offering custom stitching for anything purchased on-site, useful for shoppers who want a finished outfit rather than just fabric.
Several bank branches and ATMs operate in and around the market, which is useful given the volume of daily transactions in the area.
Parking is available but limited, and spaces can fill up quickly during peak hours, so visiting during off-peak times or using public transport is generally more convenient.
Security personnel and CCTV coverage are present throughout the complex, though shoppers are still advised to stay alert in crowded sections, as with any busy commercial area.
How Auriga Market Compares to Other Lahore Markets
Shoppers after negotiable prices and traditional wear tend to prefer Auriga Market. Those wanting fixed prices and branded outlets are generally better served at Packages Mall, while Liberty Market sits somewhere in between.
Auriga Market’s central location means several other well-known Lahore spots are close by:
Liberty Market – a short drive away, offering a similar mix of local and international retail
MM Alam Road – known for upscale dining and boutiques, ideal for winding down after shopping
Gaddafi Stadium – home ground of Pakistan’s national cricket team, a short distance from the market
Best Time to Visit Auriga Market
Late mornings and early afternoons tend to be less crowded, making them a better time to browse without the rush. Evenings, particularly on weekends, see the highest footfall, so shoppers looking for a quieter experience may prefer visiting earlier in the day.Â
Wedding season and the run-up to Eid are consistently the busiest periods, since bridal wear and fabric shops see the highest demand at those times.
Tips for Shopping at Auriga Market
Carry cash – many smaller shops don’t accept cards
Bargain confidently – negotiation is a normal part of shopping here, especially for clothing and accessories
Visit off-peak – late mornings on weekdays are quieter than weekend evenings
Plan for parking – arrive early or use ride-hailing during busy hours
Compare a few shops first – prices for similar items can vary between stores within the same market
FAQs About Auriga Market
The following are some of the FAQs.
Where exactly is Auriga Market located?Â
The Auriga Market Lahore location is at the intersection of Main Boulevard Gulberg and Zahoor Elahi Road, close to Ferozepur Road.
What is the difference between the old and new sections of the market?Â
The old Auriga Market Lahore refers to the original Auriga Complex, one of the area’s first multi-storey commercial buildings. The New Auriga Shopping Mall is the larger, newer section built later on the same stretch, with more floors and a bigger focus on bridal wear.
Is Auriga Market budget-friendly?Â
Yes. It caters to a wide range of budgets, with both affordable and higher-end options available across clothing, jewellery, and footwear shops. Most clothing items fall roughly between PKR 1,500 and PKR 30,000.
What are the market’s general timings?Â
The market generally operates from late morning to late evening on weekdays and Saturdays, with a later start and later closing on Sundays.
Is parking available at Auriga Market?Â
Parking is available but limited, and it can fill up quickly during busy hours. Off-peak visits or ride-hailing are recommended.
How does Auriga Market compare to Liberty Market or Packages Mall?Â
Auriga Market is better suited to shoppers who want negotiable prices and traditional wear. Liberty Market offers a broader brand mix, while Packages Mall is the choice for fixed prices and international brands.
Conclusion
Auriga Market remains one of Gulberg’s most practical and popular shopping destinations, combining a long-standing local history with a wide range of retail options under one roof. Whether visiting the old Auriga Market Lahore section or the newer additions around it, shoppers consistently find a mix of affordability, variety, and convenience that keeps the market relevant year after year.
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