Punjab Province

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.

Kasur:[ReNews Pakistan] (Sadaf Arshad) The long awaited renovation of Chunian’s main bazaar has been completed in early January 2026, bringing visible improvements to public convenience and the overall urban environment. The initiative was carried out as part of Punjab’s ongoing campaign against illegal encroachments, with enforcement actions resulting in the removal of long standing obstructions from the marketplace. During the operation, unauthorized extensions, roadside stalls, and temporary structures that had occupied footpaths and carriageways for years were cleared. As a result, the bazaar has become significantly more spacious, allowing smoother pedestrian movement and reducing congestion that previously posed safety concerns, particularly for women, children, and elderly shoppers. As part of the renovation, seating benches have been installed in the central sections of the bazaar to provide resting spaces for visitors. In addition, the entry of motorcycles and other vehicles has been completely prohibited. Safety chains and barriers have been placed at both ends of the market to prevent vehicular access, effectively transforming the area into a fully pedestrian shopping zone. According to administrative sources, these measures aim to improve traffic management, enhance public safety, and preserve the aesthetic appeal of the city’s commercial center. With encroachments removed, the market now offers a cleaner, more organized environment that supports pedestrian friendly activity. Residents and traders have been urged to cooperate with the new arrangements, maintain cleanliness, and refrain from re establishing encroachments to ensure the sustainability of these improvements. While an initial adjustment period is expected, officials note that the long term benefits improved accessibility, safety, and urban order are likely to outweigh short term inconveniences.