Lahore: According to news sources, the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) has recovered more than PKR 368 million from various anti-encroachment drives taking place throughout the city.

The authority recently acknowledged the hard work of its employees and enforcement teams in a news release. The authority said that a focused campaign against illicit commercialization, building, and defaulters resulted in a notable increase in the collection of monies, totaling PKR 360 million.

In the first seven months of the current fiscal year (FY) 2022–23, the LDA reportedly initiated more than 15 anti-encroachment drives against unauthorized structures and those who had not paid commercialization fees.

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These initiatives led to the filing of legal claims against over 250 properties.

As a result, the LDA’s recovery is 110 percent greater than its recovery of PKR 171 million during the same period in FY 2021–22. In addition, 184 development designs, including 11 for office and residential complexes, were approved by the authority. In addition, 27 properties were approved for permanent commercialization or land use conversion, and three gas stations were turned into businesses. 127 completion certificates were also granted.

It is significant to note that the Lahore High Court (LHC) ordered the LDA to start an operation to build 9 model roads in the city. In contravention of right-of-way (RoW) regulations, various side road obstructions were removed at the commencement of the work on Johar Town’s G-1 Market Road.