Large-scale parking plan approved for Lahore, other Punjab cities

Lahore: The Punjab government has approved a large-scale plan to develop parking infrastructure across major urban centres, including Lahore, aimed at addressing long-standing parking shortages and reducing traffic congestion.

Under the plan, modern underground and smart parking systems will be introduced in inner Lahore, the Walled City, and key commercial areas to improve traffic flow and reduce illegal roadside parking.

Officials said the initiative is part of a broader strategy to ease growing traffic pressure and persistent congestion in markets across the province. The project also includes identifying suitable locations for new parking plazas in various cities facing similar challenges.

In Lahore, preparations are underway for expanding the network of underground parking plazas. Authorities said construction work is already in progress on multiple parking facilities managed by the Traffic Engineering and Planning Agency (TEPA). A new parking plaza is also planned for Bhati Gate, while additional sites within the Walled City are being developed in different phases.

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The Walled City of Lahore Authority has been tasked with identifying land and completing feasibility studies, while the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) will oversee engineering, design, and construction work for the projects.

Officials said similar proposals have been sought from deputy commissioners of other cities experiencing parking shortages, as part of a province-wide expansion plan.

According to sources, more than 20 parking plazas are likely to be included in the upcoming Annual Development Program. The projects will be finalized after recommendations from relevant authorities, district administrations, and technical institutions, and submitted for approval in the LDA forum.

Following approval, funding allocations are expected to be made in the next provincial budget.