LAHORE: The Lahore Development Authority (LDA) has been in the headlines for allegedly wasting public funds on the reconstruction of roads in Johar Town, despite being in a severe financial crunch.
The roads in question, which were built only a year ago, were rapidly dismantled and were now being reconstructed with new layers of base and sub-base.
The reconstruction has led to criticism from local shopkeepers and residents, who claim that the roads were in good condition and did not require such extensive work. Some have accused the LDA engineering wing of having vested interests behind the project.
Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa, who holds the charge of the office of LDA director general, has pledged to hold a probe into the matter.
He has promised to set up an inquiry committee to investigate the alleged wastage of public funds on the roads’ reconstruction and the issuance of tenders for other development schemes.
The LDA’s urban development (engineering) wing has defended the project, stating that the service roads required reconstruction due to drainage and level issues. The LDA’s chief engineer has also claimed that the Abdul Haq Road was in poor condition at some points and needed widening.
Despite these claims, concerns remain about the use of public funds and the LDA’s financial crisis. The authority is yet to clear payments and bills amounting to Rs1bn.
Furthermore, the Lahore High Court (LHC) has previously criticized LDA for causing environmental degradation and other issues through its urban growth and commercial activities.
The current road reconstruction project has raised further concerns about the authority’s approach to development and financial management.
