LAHORE: The Lahore Development Authority (LDA) and the Punjab Environment Protection Agency (EPA) on Monday hosted a public hearing to evaluate the environmental dimensions of the ‘Master Plan Lahore Division 2050’.
The session addressed critical urban and ecological challenges, aiming to refine the 2050 vision by integrating citizen feedback and expert recommendations. The event was attended by Sharjeel Hafeez Wattoo, Additional Director General (Operations) of the EPA, and the Chief Metropolitan Planner of the LDA.
On this occasion, the Chief Metropolitan Planner and the consultants briefed participants on the necessity and significance of the Master Plan 2050, assuring them that suggestions regarding environmental pollution raised during the public hearing would be reviewed, while Fauzia Akram, a Director at the Punjab Environment Protection Agency, provided a briefing on issues such as smog and environmental pollution.
Kamil Khan Mumtaz, a renowned architect and member of the ‘Lahore Bachao Tehreek’, explained the various stages of the Master Plan. He noted that the Master Plan is being developed with the ongoing global environmental crisis in mind, with the primary objective of fostering a ‘prosperous Lahore’ that serves as a ‘hub of civilisation’.
During the public hearing, the international consultancy firm Dar Al-Handasah and Asian Consultant Engineering, both involved in the Lahore Master Plan, delivered presentations. Representatives from Dar Al-Handasah stated that the Master Plan is being formulated with due consideration for Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). The plan addresses concerns such as environmental pollution, smog, the haphazard expansion of industry, and various socio-economic challenges. It focuses on key urban requirements, including public transport, road infrastructure, housing, agriculture, healthcare facilities, landscaping, educational institutions, industrial development, and sewage systems.
The Master Plan covers the Lahore Division. Various urban amenities in Lahore, Sheikhupura, Kasur, and Nankana have been reviewed. The master plan incorporates input from citizens, as well as proposals and recommendations from the Environment Department. It accounts for projected future population growth, urban sprawl, and housing requirements. Planning is being conducted with a focus on urban amenities, public transportation, and the needs of commuters and pedestrians.
Moreover, the master plan for the Lahore Division also encompasses provisions for cultural spaces, parks, greenery, sewerage systems, and water infrastructure. The construction of high-rise buildings, including both commercial and residential properties, will be encouraged. It further integrates planning for areas under the jurisdiction of RUDA, CBD, the Cantonment, and DHA. Efforts are underway, in collaboration with developers and other stakeholders, to address issues related to environmental pollution.
Environmental experts Aleem Butt and Rafay Alam briefed the participants on the causes of environmental pollution and potential remedial measures. A large number of stakeholders, consultants, citizens, and students participated in the public hearing. At the conclusion of the seminar, the consultants addressed questions raised by the citizens and students.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026