The Lahore Development Authority (LDA) has taken a significant step towards ensuring smoother traffic flow and improving commuter safety by launching a pilot project for dedicated cycling and motorbike lanes on Ferozepur Road. This initiative aims to reduce accidents and provide a safe and uninterrupted route for cyclists and motorcyclists.

Key Highlights of the Pilot Project

• Location: Four-kilometer stretch on Ferozepur Road, from Kalma Chowk to Lahore Bridge (Qainchi).

• Design: Dedicated lanes separated by low-height concrete walls and eco-friendly blue paint.

• Width: Bikers' lane will be 12 feet wide.

• Objective: Improve traffic flow, reduce accidents, and enhance commuter convenience.

• Future Plans: Expansion to other major roads in Lahore, including:

  • Jail Road

  • The Mall

  • Multan Road

  • Wahdat Road

  • Canal Road

Project Details

LDA’s Implementation Plan

The project’s first phase involves constructing dedicated lanes on both sides of Ferozepur Road. The lanes will be separated from the main road by:

• Curve stones: To ensure structural integrity and prevent vehicles from encroaching on the lanes.

• Eco-friendly blue paint: Providing a clear visual distinction for cyclists and motorcyclists.

According to Mr. Asrar Saeed, Chief Engineer of the LDA, the dedicated lanes will enhance the commuting experience and prioritize the safety of cyclists and motorcyclists.

Inspection and Progress

LDA Director General Tahir Farooq, along with Chief Engineer Asrar Saeed and Project Director Haroon Saifi, inspected the ongoing development work. The DG emphasized the importance of completing the pilot project on time to assess its feasibility for further implementation across the city.

Benefits of Dedicated Cycling and Motorbike Lanes

Future Expansion Plans

If successful, the pilot project will pave the way for similar interventions across other major roads in Lahore. The planned expansions include lanes on high-traffic areas such as Jail Road and Canal Road, aiming to replicate the benefits city-wide.

Parks and Horticulture Authority’s Initiatives

In addition to LDA’s efforts, the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) is also actively working towards enhancing Lahore’s urban landscape. The 26th Board of Directors (BoDs) meeting was recently held to discuss and approve multiple developmental projects.

Key Decisions from the PHA Meeting

Employee Welfare

• Increase in Salaries:

  • Daily-wage employees' salaries raised to PKR 37,000 per month.

  • A 50% allowance increase based on the 2022 basic salary formula approved for permanent employees.

Development Projects

• Park Upgrades:

  • Improvement of parks, picnic spots, and seating areas.

• New Constructions:

  • Restaurant at Jilani Park (Racecourse).

  • Canal-side restaurant for recreational activities.

Cultural Initiatives

• Approval of plans for the Horse and Cattle Show, aiming to promote Lahore’s cultural heritage and attract visitors.

Departmental Improvements

The meeting reviewed and approved various proposals for enhancing PHA’s departmental functions, including:

• Administration

• Coordination

• Engineering

• Marketing

• Horticulture