Lahore, The Lahore Development Authority (LDA) is poised to begin a test run of an online system for approving building maps in May 2024. This digital initiative, announced during a recent meeting, aims to simplify the approval process for the business community, enhancing efficiency and transparency.

According to Zameen.Com, the online map approval project involves a partnership with JS Bank (Zindagi). The LDA's Town Planning Wing is also nearing completion of an e-library that will house prototype maps, a resource intended to aid applicants in their submissions. The meeting, which took place on April 19, was chaired by LDA Director General Tahir Farooq, who emphasized the need to monitor the time required to obtain NOCs from various departments.

The session also served as a performance review for the Town Planning Wing, highlighting its activities over the past six months. During this period, the Wing approved over 3,500 residential building plans and 450 commercial plans, processed 230 commercialization cases, and issued 530 completion certificates. Additionally, enforcement actions were taken against 1,800 properties involved in illegal construction and unauthorized commercial activities.

DG Farooq further directed the swift demolition of illegal structures and the severance of their water connections to curb unlawful construction. He also mandated that the LDA intensify efforts to recover dues from commercial fee defaulters, stressing the importance of regulatory compliance to maintain urban order.