LDA Nets Over Rs1.1 Billion in Landmark Auction of Commercial Plots in Township

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The Lahore Development Authority (LDA) has generated over Rs1.1 billion through the public auction of commercial plots located in Jinnah Market, Township. The auction was held on Friday at the LDA Community Centre, New Garden Town, where a total of 24 plots were presented. These properties had previously been under encroachment for nearly three decades.

According to LDA officials, these plots were first auctioned off in 1984, but legal disputes and subsequent encroachments hindered development and formal ownership for years. The authority regained possession of the properties earlier this year following a sustained anti-encroachment drive.

Among the plots auctioned, Plot No. 29 received the highest bid of over Rs95.8 million. Plot No. 10 was auctioned for over Rs85.3 million. In total, the 24 plots fetched Rs1.135 billion, with each plot leased for 30 years.

The auction process drew significant interest from investors and took place under the supervision of LDA Director General Muhammad Ali Randhawa. Senior officials, including Additional Director General (Housing) Captain (R) Shahmir Iqbal and Additional DG (Headquarters) Waseem Anwar, were also present.

LDA Director General Randhawa noted that the success of the auction was due to enhanced transparency and consistent policy enforcement. He stated that the authority had effectively reclaimed encroached land and was now putting it to productive, lawful use.

“We have sent a clear message that state property will no longer be allowed to remain under illegal occupation. By converting these plots into legal commercial zones, we are strengthening the rule of law and creating new economic opportunities,” Randhawa said. He added that this auction model could be implemented in other areas where similar encroachment issues persist.

This auction marks the highest single-event revenue raised by the LDA and is seen as a step toward improving land management and urban planning in Lahore. The authority aims to continue similar initiatives to maximise the use of public assets and enhance institutional efficiency.