Lahore: The Lahore Development Authority has introduced new digital enforcement and inspection SOPs to monitor action against illegal construction, unauthorised commercial use, land-use violations and non-payment of dues. Notices, sealing and demolition proceedings will now move through a digital file-management system.
Under the new system, enforcement notices will carry QR codes, while geo-tagged photographs and supporting property records will be uploaded and monitored online. Properties have been divided into three categories: illegal construction, unauthorised change in building use and non-payment of dues.
The system also creates a digital record for de-sealing properties. A sealed property can be reopened after applicable fines are paid, its legal status is restored or the required approval is obtained. Decisions and supporting documents will remain traceable through a digital audit trail.
Property owners involved in unauthorised commercial use will get 15 days to rectify the violation, while cases involving illegal construction will get five days before enforcement action can proceed. Officials who fail to follow the new SOPs may also face departmental action.
The SOPs were introduced on the directions of LDA Director General Tahir Farooq, while a committee headed by the Chief Town Planner will review the planning, legal and revenue position of relevant properties before decisions are taken.
