The Lahore Development Authority (LDA) is preparing to launch an artificial intelligence-based system to replace its existing online and manual procedures for map submission and approval. The move follows numerous public complaints regarding repetitive objections raised by LDA’s architect and town-planning directorates, which have often delayed the approval of residential and commercial projects.
LDA Director General Tahir Farooq confirmed that the IT directorate has been assigned the task of developing the AI software, with a prototype expected soon. He explained that the system will handle the submission, review, and approval of residential and commercial maps automatically by analyzing required documents and data points. The software will read maps that include details such as setbacks, mandatory spaces, measurements, bylaws, and land-use status. Once all required information is verified, the AI will approve the application, generating both digital and printed copies of the sanctioned map. According to Farooq, the process will remove the opportunity for irregularities or corruption, as the software will identify and flag any missing information itself, eliminating the need for manual objections from officers.
Currently, LDA uses an online system to process map submissions, which allows town-planning officials to review applications, seek reports, and grant approvals digitally. However, human involvement still enables discretionary objections and procedural delays. A senior LDA official from the town-planning wing stated that while the current online system has improved operations, the new AI-based approach will take transparency to the next level by minimizing interference from staff. He mentioned that one officer from the architect section was recently suspended for procedural irregularities, highlighting the need for a more reliable and impartial process.
According to official figures, the LDA’s town-planning wing approved 6,063 maps during the last period, including 5,556 residential and 507 commercial projects. Using the existing system, LDA teams have also created GIS maps for 64 major commercial roads and digitized large volumes of property data. The digitization drive has helped the authority identify numerous illegal commercial properties, leading to penalties totaling Rs6 billion in the previous fiscal year. Officials believe that incorporating artificial intelligence into the approval process will further strengthen oversight, reduce delays, and improve efficiency in urban planning and property regulation.
Meanwhile, in a separate development, the LDA governing body approved several projects aimed at improving urban infrastructure. During a meeting chaired by LDA Vice Chairman Mian Marghhoob Ahmad, the authority approved a plan for the beautification, remodeling, and development of areas surrounding Lahore Railway Station, Misri Shah, Azadi Chowk, Data Darbar, Bhati Chowk, and Mohni Road under a sustainable development model. The governing body also approved new building height regulations under permissible use and amendments to the LDA Recruitment, Appointment, and Conditions of Service Regulations 1976.
The upcoming AI initiative is seen as a key step in transforming how the LDA handles property-related approvals. By leveraging automated analysis and data-driven verification, the authority aims to enhance transparency, efficiency, and citizen trust in its approval processes while supporting Lahore’s broader goals for smart and sustainable urban development.
Follow the SPIN IDG WhatsApp Channel for updates across the Smart Pakistan Insights Network covering all of Pakistan’s technology ecosystem.
