Punjab Province

Lahore | ReNews Pakistan Pakistan Railways has launched new measures to make its land holdings across the country a more effective source of income. Leasing land and reclaiming illegally occupied areas are being implemented to ensure assets are preserved while increasing non-fare revenue. This strategy is considered a key step for financial stability and better utilisation of railway land. * Land is used for commercial, agricultural, residential, and industrial purposes * Leasing and recovery initiatives focus on balancing financial and operational outcomes * The goal is to increase revenue and optimise land use Recently, around 14,893 acres of land were leased through open competitive processes for private and government use. The leased properties include agricultural land, commercial plots, warehouses, and land near railway tracks. This approach has activated previously idle land, generating income while maintaining ownership. At the same time, actions have been intensified to remove illegal occupations. Approximately 13,972 acres of railway land across the country are reportedly encroached, including urban, semi-urban, agricultural, and commercial areas. The recovery process is being carried out through legal and administrative measures. * Leasing focuses on transparency and competitive allocation * Recovery of encroached land follows legal notices and procedural steps * Social and legal aspects are considered in reclaiming occupied land Legal notices of 14 days have been issued to ensure occupied land is vacated. These measures are carried out with support from railway police and local authorities to maintain a balance between legal enforcement and practical implementation. From a financial perspective, income from land has become a significant source of non-fare revenue. Earnings from passenger and freight services alone are insufficient to cover operational costs, making land leasing a stable long-term revenue solution. * Non-fare revenue is increasingly critical * Long-term leases provide sustainable income * Ownership of land remains with the state Land use by Pakistan Railways also affects urban planning and real estate markets. Decisions on leasing and reclaiming land influence property values, investment trends, and local economies. Overall, the land leasing and recovery strategy represents a fact-based, pragmatic approach to improving revenue, land use efficiency, and transparency. If implemented effectively, it can ensure financial stability while enhancing the management and legal status of railway land.

Lahore:[ReNews Pakistan] The Lahore Development Authority (LDA) has accelerated its ongoing enforcement operations across the city against illegal commercial activities, unauthorized commercialization of residential properties, and non-payment of commercial fees. Under the directives of DG LDA Tahir Farooq, hundreds of properties have been sealed in recent days to ensure compliance with urban planning and zoning regulations. On January 05, 2026, LDA teams sealed 104 illegal commercial properties, including Allied Bank branch, Dar-e-Arqam School, Unique School, and multiple private educational institutions, shops, and commercial units operating on residential plots. The action follows repeated notices issued to property owners who failed to regularize their activities. In previous days, LDA carried out similar enforcement actions: 88 properties were sealed on January 04, including The Educators, American Lyceum, and Stylo showrooms; 88 buildings on January 03; and 134 commercial premises on January 01, including outlets of Yasir Broast, Fri-Chicks, Dollar Store, Cakes & Bakes, and other well-known brands. The operations covered major areas of Lahore, including Gulberg, Johar Town, Model Town, Garden Town, Wapda Town, Mustafa Town, Sabzi Mandi, Airport Road, and other central locations. LDA emphasized that enforcement is being applied uniformly, with no exceptions, and all owners had been repeatedly notified before sealing actions. In parallel, development work continues on major LDA housing projects such as LDA City, LDA Avenue-I, and Jubilee Town. LDA is also working on a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Private Housing Authorities Regulatory Authority (PERA) to further enhance enforcement and urban regulation. All operations are being monitored centrally from LDA headquarters in Johar Town. DG LDA Tahir Farooq stated that these measures aim to make Lahore a planned, organized, and modern city. Citizens are urged to comply with regulations, pay commercial fees on time, and avoid illegal constructions. The ongoing operations are part of broader initiatives to ensure a regulated, obstruction-free, and modern urban environment for residents and businesses alike.

Lahore:[ReNews Pakistan] Lahore witnessed a historic day today as the city hosted its first-ever marathon under the energetic slogan “Bhag Mere Lahore”, aimed at promoting fitness and a healthy lifestyle. The colorful and spirited event drew thousands of participants, passing through both historic and modern parts of the city. The marathon commenced early morning from Liberty Chowk, Gulberg, with participants of all ages, including men, women, children, and seniors. The event included a full marathon (42.195 km),ub half marathon (21 km), 10 km run, and a 5 km family fun run. The route took runners past iconic locations such as Mall Road, near Badshahi Mosque, Minar-e-Pakistan, and Lahore Fort, providing a memorable experience surrounded by the city’s rich heritage and beauty. Organizers stated that the “Bhag Mere Lahore” slogan is intended to encourage residents towards an active and healthy lifestyle. This inaugural marathon marks the beginning of a growing fitness culture in Lahore, with plans to expand the event into a larger, international-level marathon in the coming years. Both local runners and international athletes participated, displaying remarkable enthusiasm and energy. Winners received awards, and the event concluded with cultural performances and live music, adding to the festive atmosphere. Officials highlighted that the marathon not only promotes sports but also fosters community spirit, health awareness, and active citizenship. With the support of government and private organizations, the marathon is expected to become an annual event. Lahore residents expressed pride and excitement, welcoming “Bhag Mere Lahore” as the city’s new mantra for fitness and healthy living.