The Lahore Development Authority is set to enforce the Lahore Division Master Plan 2050 from the next fiscal year, starting July 1, 2026, as work on its final draft enters the last phase.
Officials said the revised draft is expected to be submitted by May 31, after which it will undergo review and approval before implementation.
Plan under revision after court orders
The master plan, originally prepared in 2022, is being revised following directives from the Lahore High Court, which had suspended its enforcement in January 2023.
Consultants are updating the plan to reflect recent developments and align it with the 2023 census, replacing earlier projections based on the 2017 census.
Key updates in the new draft
According to officials, the revised plan will:
- Incorporate newly developed built-up areas across Lahore and adjoining districts
- Align with developments under the Ravi Urban Development Authority
- Expand planning boundaries to accommodate population growth
- Integrate policies of multiple urban authorities
The plan also envisions a new city center in Gulberg and outlines long-term urban growth strategies for Lahore Division, including Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahib, and Kasur.
Current planning framework is outdated
At present, the LDA continues to rely on the 2016 master plan, an updated version of the Punjab Capital Master Plan 2004–2021, for approving housing schemes and land development projects.
Officials say the new plan will modernize urban planning, addressing issues such as housing, infrastructure, and environmental sustainability.
Approval timeline
Once the final draft is submitted:
- Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) hearings will be conducted
- The plan will be reviewed by relevant departments
- Final approval is expected in an LDA governing body meeting in late June
If approved, the Lahore Master Plan 2050 will come into force from July 2026.
Background and concerns
The earlier version of the plan faced legal challenges over concerns it could benefit developers and harm the environment. Observations by the court also highlighted risks posed by unplanned urban expansion.
Authorities now aim to finalize a more balanced plan that addresses both development needs and environmental safeguards.
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