Strategic Facilities to Enhance Travel Experience and Generate PKR 200 Million Annually

Lahore, July 29, 2025: The Lahore Ring Road Authority (LRRA) has announced a major initiative to enhance commuter convenience with the development of six state-of-the-art rest areas along key points of the Ring Road.

Each rest area will feature essential amenities, including petrol stations, food outlets, tuck shops, mosques, and restrooms, ensuring a more comfortable travel experience for thousands of daily users and commercial vehicles navigating the city’s high-speed corridor.

The sites—strategically located at Adda Plot, Halloki, Kamahan, opposite the airport, and Mehmood Booti—will each cover 4.5 to 5 kanal and be leased out through a competitive bidding process to financially sound individuals and firms. The lease agreements have been finalized, and offers will be invited shortly.

Officials project over PKR 200 million in annual revenue from the leasing of these rest stops, aligning with the government’s broader agenda to modernize urban infrastructure and enhance public services.

This initiative not only supports safer and more efficient travel but also introduces a new commercial model to revitalize Lahore’s roadways through sustainable public-private collaboration.

PKR 72 Billion Subsidy Scheme to Empower Low- and Middle-Income Families Across Pakistan

Islamabad, July 29, 2025: In a significant move to expand homeownership opportunities, the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet has approved a markup subsidy and risk-sharing scheme aimed at making affordable housing accessible for low- and middle-income families across Pakistan.

Chaired by Federal Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, the ECC announced a PKR 72 billion subsidy initiative that will enable eligible borrowers to secure fixed-rate home loans of up to PKR 3.5 million, with subsidized interest rates between 5% and 8%. This decision is part of a larger national strategy to stimulate growth in Pakistan’s housing and construction sectors.

The ECC also stressed the need for a centralized housing sector database, instructing relevant ministries to work alongside provincial stakeholders for better coordination, transparency, and long-term planning.

This initiative not only paves the way for more families to own homes but also reflects the government’s strong commitment to inclusive economic development and financial accessibility for underserved communities.

The new scheme is expected to drive demand in the housing market while offering relief to thousands seeking stable and affordable living conditions.

Digital Applications, Women’s Quota, and Green Mobility at the Heart of Punjab’s Bold Transport Reform

Lahore, July 29, 2025 – The Punjab government is set to roll out its interest-free electric taxi (e-taxi) scheme in August 2025, marking a significant step toward sustainable transport and inclusive economic development. Applications will open in the coming weeks via a new digital platform being developed by the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB).

Punjab Transport Minister Bilal Akbar Khan announced that 1,100 electric taxis will be distributed in the pilot phase. Of these, 1,000 vehicles are allocated to fleet owners (with a minimum purchase of 10 cars each). At the same time, 100 taxis will be provided to individual drivers, including 30 reserved for women to enhance female participation in the transport sector.

Under the scheme, vehicles will be available on easy, interest-free installments, with the government covering markup, token tax, and registration fees. Additionally, nine EV suppliers have been shortlisted to provide the taxis and establish a network of charging stations, service centers, and spare parts facilities across Punjab.

With the formal launch just weeks away, the initiative aims to tackle climate change, reduce urban congestion, and empower a new generation of eco-conscious entrepreneurs across the province.

Murad Ali Shah Calls for Full Integration of E-Mutation, E-Registration, and E-Transfer Systems to Boost Transparency

Karachi, July 26, 2025. In a decisive move to modernize Sindh’s land management systems, Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah directed the Board of Revenue (BoR) to expedite the integration of e-mutation with e-registration and accelerate the rollout of the e-transfer mechanism.

Chairing a high-level meeting at CM House, Shah reviewed the progress of the Land Administration & Revenue Management Information System (LARMIS) and stressed the urgent need to digitize land records across the province. He emphasized seamless interconnectivity among platforms to enhance service delivery and eliminate bureaucratic delays.

The CM was briefed on the current capabilities of LARMIS, including its 27 operational People’s Service Centres (PSCs), the online portal, and robust data infrastructure in Karachi and Hyderabad. He noted that over 100,000 digital registrations are expected by July 2025.

Officials were instructed to submit a detailed implementation timeline for full digital integration. Shah reiterated that digitization will improve transparency, curb corruption, and secure land rights for both rural and urban citizens, marking a transformative shift in Sindh’s governance framework.

“The goal is clear: fast, fair, and fully digital land services for every citizen,” He declared.

Punjab Government Unveils Grand Development Plan for Religious and Cultural Hub

NANKANA SAHIB, July 2025: Chief Minister of Punjab, Maryam Nawaz, has vowed to transform Nankana Sahib into a modern, model city, aligning with international standards in infrastructure, heritage preservation, and civic facilities. The announcement came during her recent visit to the town, where she chaired a high-level meeting with local officials and community representatives.

The Chief Minister emphasized the religious, cultural, and historical significance of Nankana Sahib, particularly as the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. The government’s new development initiative aims to elevate the city’s living standards while preserving its unique spiritual significance.

The proposed makeover includes upgraded road networks, underground drainage systems, improved waste management, beautification of public spaces, and enhanced security measures for pilgrims. A detailed urban master plan will also prioritize smart infrastructure, green zones, and heritage restoration.

Maryam Nawaz assured local stakeholders that the government would allocate special funds for the project and consult all relevant departments to ensure its efficient and transparent execution.

This initiative is part of Punjab’s broader vision to promote inclusive urban growth, religious tourism, and civic modernization across underdeveloped cities. The project also aims to enhance livelihoods, promote local businesses, and deliver improved municipal services to the residents of Nankana Sahib.

Green Mobility Gets a Boost with Eco-Friendly Transit Pilot on Canal Road

LAHORE, July 2025: In a groundbreaking step toward sustainable urban mobility, Lahore has received its first electric tram, imported from China, as part of a pilot project aimed at modernizing the city’s public transportation network. The initiative follows the successful launch of the Orange Line Metro Train and electric buses, reinforcing Punjab’s vision for a cleaner, smarter transit system.

According to officials, the three-compartment electric tram, capable of carrying up to 250 passengers, will undergo testing along Canal Road. The vehicle requires just 10 minutes of charging to travel 25–27 kilometers, making it highly energy-efficient and suitable for Lahore’s traffic corridors.

The Ali Town Depot is currently preparing the tram for its first test run. Authorities will evaluate its road compatibility, commuter feedback, and operational efficiency before scaling the project citywide. As part of the Punjab government’s broader clean transport agenda, the tram aims to reduce urban pollution, traffic congestion, and reliance on fossil fuels.

If successful, officials confirm that additional trams may be introduced across other major Lahore routes, marking a significant leap forward in eco-friendly public transport for Pakistan’s second-largest city.

Asian Development Bank Team Assesses 480-km Stretch for Possible Funding Support

KARACHI, July 2025: A high-level delegation from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) visited the Karachi–Rohri railway section, a pivotal part of the long-awaited Main Line-1 (ML-1) upgrade project, on Saturday. Led by ADB Chief Transport Planner Sangyoon Kim, the team comprised infrastructure specialists and senior officials from Pakistan Railways.

The 480-kilometer stretch, which handles key freight and passenger traffic, including coal from Thar and mineral reserves from Reko Diq, is under evaluation for its feasibility and financing potential as part of ML-1’s Phase 1.

Officials confirmed that the ADB team would also consult with Pakistan Railways’ leadership and Chinese engineers to explore collaborative funding pathways. The ML-1 project, spanning 1,872 km from Karachi to Peshawar, aims to modernize Pakistan’s core rail network by increasing speeds to 160 km/h, doubling capacity, and enhancing safety.

With China slowing its investment in ML-1 due to delays, Pakistan is now engaging ADB and other financiers to revive momentum. A structured financing proposal could reverse infrastructure decline and prevent further service deterioration due to frequent derailments.

The visit signals renewed interest in reviving Pakistan’s rail backbone through multilateral partnerships.

Government Prioritizes Alternative Markets Before Demolition of 2,300 Shops in Lahore’s Heritage Zone

LAHORE, July 23, 2025: In a significant move to balance urban development with economic protection, the Punjab government has postponed the demolition of nearly 2,300 shops along Lahore’s historic Circular Road, pending the construction of dedicated underground markets for affected traders.

This decision, part of the Lahore Authority for Heritage Revival (LAHR) project to restore the British-era Circular Garden, follows strong opposition from local shopkeepers who feared forced eviction. Over decades, the greenbelt area had been overtaken by 2,285 shops, most of which were previously regularized through rental agreements.

Deputy Commissioner Syed Musa Raza confirmed that no shop will be removed until alternative spaces are completed at Taxali, Sheranwala, and Mochi gates. These new hubs will feature modern commercial units, parking, and complete civic infrastructure.

Punjab Housing Minister Bilal Yasin assured union leaders of 18 trade bodies that the government will deliver state-of-the-art commercial markets, in line with directives from Mian Nawaz Sharif, Chair of LAHR.

This restoration project seeks to protect Lahore’s heritage while ensuring no loss of livelihood for small traders, a model for inclusive urban renewal.

Safeguarding Buyers, Restoring Order: CDA to Penalize Unauthorized Developments Under New Enforcement Plan

ISLAMABAD, July 2025: In a major policy move to curb unauthorized urban sprawl, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) has initiated a strict enforcement operation against illegal housing and cooperative societies across Islamabad. This decisive action is taken at the directives of Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and will be overseen by CDA Chairman Mohammad Ali Randhawa.

Under the new enforcement mechanism, housing schemes will be categorized based on jurisdiction, either under CDA or ICT administration, for clearer regulation. Each society will be evaluated for layout plan approval, NOC status, and land records, with any unauthorized expansion or sale of files flagged for legal action.

Chairman Randhawa has declared a zero-tolerance policy toward illegal developments. Developers found to be violating regulations will face strict penalties, including demolition, cancellation of their file, and potential criminal proceedings. Additionally, suppliers aiding such construction will also be penalized.

To protect potential buyers, the CDA will release an updated list of illegal housing projects on its official website and urge citizens to avoid investments in unapproved schemes.

This operation reflects the CDA’s renewed commitment to planned urban growth, public safety, and transparent real estate practices in Pakistan’s capital.

Business leaders warn new tax and wage policies could stall investment and hurt retail recovery.

RAWALPINDI: July 20, 2025: The Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) has called on the Punjab government to urgently review its recent decision to impose a 16% sales tax on commercial rent and grant arrest powers over minimum wage violations.

RCCI President Usman Shaukat expressed deep concern, stating that these measures will increase the cost of doing business, particularly for retailers and small tenants, and may deter investment across the province. He warned that the tax could drive legitimate businesses into the informal economy, weakening an already fragile retail and real estate sector still recovering from post-COVID shocks.

Highlighting the new minimum wage of Rs 40,000, Shaukat criticized the budget clause that allows the arrest of non-compliant business owners, calling it coercive and prone to abuse. While supporting fair wages, he argued that policy must reflect market realities, noting a sharp drop in inflation to 6%.

The RCCI urged the government to engage in dialogue with business stakeholders to revise these policies, thereby preserving industrial confidence and promoting job creation in Punjab.