LDA Introduces New SOPs For Transparent Enforcement, Inspection Regime
LAHORE, (APP – UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News – 7th Sep, 2026) New Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) have been implemented at the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) for its enforcement and inspection regime on the directions of Director General LDA Tahir Farooq.
Under the new system:
- Enforcement actions against illegal constructions, violations of land-use regulations, and non-payment of dues will be digitally monitored.
- Notices, sealing, and demolition operations will be processed through a digital file-processing system featuring QR code-based notices, geo-tagged photographs, and online monitoring of records.
- Sealed properties will only be de-sealed after payment of applicable fines, restoration of the property to its lawful status, or obtaining the required approval.
The SOPs categorize properties into three types: illegal construction, unlawful change in use of an existing building, and non-payment of dues. For the first time, the record of de-sealing will also be maintained digitally.
They clearly define the powers and responsibilities of Assistant Directors, Deputy Directors, and Directors of Town Planning. All zones of the Town Planning Wing must inform the respective Chief Town Planners before sealing or demolition operations.
A committee headed by the Chief Town Planner has been constituted to oversee:
- Identification of illegal commercial properties
- Decisions regarding the withdrawal or correction of notices
Comprised of the Chief IT Officer, Director Revenue, Director Law, and the concerned Director Town Planning, this committee will:
- Examine property facts, planning, legal, and revenue status.
- Review approved or unapproved building plans, temporary and permanent commercialization, and their legal status.
- Consider complaints, inspection reports, court stay orders, and injunctions.
- Scrutinize prior approvals, exemptions, compounding, or regularization granted by competent authorities.
- Analyze outstanding dues, fines, revenue records, digital data, and site-related information.
The committee’s decisions, along with supporting records, will be uploaded to the digital system. Any corrections or changes will be made through the system’s audit trail.
Property owners will receive 15 days to rectify illegal commercial use and five days to address illegal construction.
The LDA has warned of departmental action against officials and staff who neglect or fail to comply with the newly introduced SOPs.
On the directions of DG LDA Tahir Farooq, the Director Administration has issued formal notification for the implementation of these new SOPs.
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