Lahore: The authorities have made a significant discovery of 91 unauthorised farm house projects within the city, according to news sources on July 18.
These unauthorised farm house projects have raised concerns about illegal urbanisation and the potential misuse of agricultural land for residential purposes. Moreover, the schemes located within an 8.1-decimal kilometre radius of the Border Zero Line are of added concern owing to security reasons. Upon investigation, it was revealed that Tehsil Cantt accounted for 62 of the illegal farm housing schemes, while Tehsil Shalimar had 29. These unauthorised developments have prompted local authorities to take action against those responsible. The legality of these schemes falls under Section 9 of the West Pakistan Border Area Regulation 1959, which prohibits unauthorised development in border regions. Furthermore, authorities are obligated by Section 145 of the Local Government Ordinance 2021 to address and combat such violations.
It is important to note that the use of agricultural land for farm housing schemes within an 8-decimal kilometre radius is strictly prohibited. This law aims to preserve agricultural resources and prevent their exploitation for commercial and residential use. To ensure future compliance, written affidavits will be required for the purchase and sale of agricultural land, specifically prohibiting its use for farm housing schemes. Lahore District Collector Adnan Rashid has emphasised the gravity of the situation and announced that a comprehensive report on these illegal farm housing societies will be presented within the next fifteen days. ‘This report will serve as the basis for taking further action against those involved in these unauthorised schemes, to preserve the integrity of the city’s urban planning and safeguard agricultural land from encroachment,’ he stated.
An official from the district administration highlighted the need for strict enforcement of regulations and consistent vigilance to prevent the unauthorised mushrooming of housing project and protect agricultural resources for their intended purpose. The district authorities are committed to resolving this issue and ensuring sustainable and controlled urban development in the city, the official added.
Hazafa reveres the art of writing and has been turned into a property enthusiast by profession. Her daily survival kit includes; tea, coffee, keyboard and paperbacks.
