Islamabad, Feb 14: The Punjab government is taking significant steps to regulate housing schemes by encouraging planned development and ensuring transparency in land transactions. Punjab Local Government Minister Zeeshan Rafiq emphasized that instead of unplanned construction, the government would support housing schemes that follow a master plan. He termed the establishment of the Spatial Planning Authority as a revolutionary initiative for the housing sector.
Chairing a meeting at the Civil Secretariat on Friday, the minister discussed key regulatory reforms alongside Senior Member Board of Revenue (SMBR) Nabeel Javed, Secretary Local Government Shakeel Ahmed Mian, and Secretary Housing. The Director General of the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) and the Punjab Land Record Authority also briefed attendees on ongoing developments.
Minister Rafiq highlighted that Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz is keen on ensuring maximum convenience for citizens. He stated that to bring transparency to the housing sector, the Chief Minister would personally oversee matters related to the Spatial Planning Authority. A key initiative under this authority is the introduction of the Planning Support System (PSS) in 32 districts of Punjab.
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Under PSS, prior approval will be required before launching any housing schemes or government projects in green areas. Additionally, unnecessary No-Objection Certificates (NOCs) for private housing schemes will be eliminated, with all records made accessible through a centralized digital dashboard.
In a major step towards land record transparency, Rafiq announced plans to make plot transfers 100 percent transparent. He revealed that maps and plot details will be available through QR codes, allowing citizens easy access to information. Furthermore, the minister shared that the government is working on launching franchise services for land issuance. Expected to start in March, this service will eliminate the need for citizens to visit the local Patwari office, reducing bureaucratic hurdles and potential corruption.
The minister also stressed the importance of maintaining the integrity of approved master plans, stating that modifications should only be made when absolutely necessary. He assured that a province-wide system would be introduced to cater to the planning needs of small areas, ensuring balanced urban development across Punjab.
