Lahore: In a bid to address administrative and environmental issues arising from unplanned commercial activities on agricultural lands near urban centers, Punjab’s Local Government Minister Zeeshan Rafiq announced plans for new regulations and a provincial authority to oversee development projects.

According to Zameen.Com, the announcement came during a special committee meeting chaired by Minister Rafiq, which included Punjab Agriculture Minister Syed Ashiq Hussain Kirmani, Board of Revenue member Nabeel Javed, Local Government Secretary Shakeel Ahmed Mian, and stakeholders from the real estate sector. The meeting focused on formulating a legislative framework that would regularise commercial schemes previously launched without comprehensive planning and establish a central authority to approve and monitor master plans for housing schemes.

During the discussions, Minister Rafiq underscored the importance of centralizing oversight to eliminate confusion and duplication of responsibilities across various departments. He emphasized that a unified platform would not only streamline processes but also safeguard against illegal housing projects by offering essential services to both citizens and developers from a single source.

Supporting the initiative, Agriculture Minister Kirmani highlighted the potential of such a provincial authority to enhance transparency and foster public trust in the real estate market. Representatives from the real estate sector also expressed their endorsement of the government’s strategy, pledging full cooperation with the initiative spearheaded by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif. The session concluded with a detailed briefing on property transfer procedures, further emphasizing the commitment to creating a clear and efficient regulatory environment.