Category: Lahore

Lahore: Provincial Minister for Minority Affairs, Ramesh Singh Arora, held a meeting with Chairman of Gujranwala Business Center (GBC) Ahmad Akram Lone at his camp office on Monday. Matters of promoting local industry and contributing to the economic development of the country came under discussion. The central topic of the meeting was "Made in Gujranwala" (MIG), emphasizing the need to introducing Gujranwala's local industries on the global stage and create business opportunities for them. During the meeting, Ahmad Akram Lone informed the provincial minister about the activities at GBC and the benefits of the "Made in Gujranwala" enclosure, emphasizing the importance of provincial government's support for the industrial growth of Gujranwala.

Arora emphasised that the development of local industries in Pakistan was crucial not only for the country's economy but also for creating numerous employment opportunities. He said the establishment of GBC and the planning of the "Made in Gujranwala" enclosure were significant steps in strengthening the local economy. Ahmad Akram Lone informed that the purpose of GBC was to work for the economic development of Gujranwala's industrial sector. GBC operates under the Ministry of Industries and Production and is focused on promoting the business sector of Gujranwala, one of Pakistan's fastest-growing industrial cities, in line with modern demands.

The minister was also briefed about the "Made in Gujranwala" (MIG) enclosure, which was Pakistan's largest permanent display facility showcasing the best industrial products of Gujranwala under one roof. It includes 52 active displays across 30 different business sectors, including ceramics, sanitary ware, cookware, sanitary fittings, textiles, motors and pumps, household goods, rice, and more. The MIG enclosure not only provides a platform for displaying the latest advancements and products from Gujranwala's industries but also serves as a vital platform for knowledge exchange and cooperation among industry leaders and trade organizations. International diplomats, trade bodies, and representatives from the Joint Chamber of Commerce regularly engage with GBC to enhance international trade and further strengthen economic cooperation with Gujranwala's business community. Provincial Minister Ramesh Singh Arora accepted the invitation to visit the "Made in Gujranwala" enclosure, expressing his intenti on to visit Gujranwala soon and engage with the local business community.

Lahore: The Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) and Deputy Commissioner Office Lahore would take joint measures to resolve the issues being faced by the business community.

The consensus was developed during the visit of Deputy Commissioner Syed Musa Raza to the LCCI here on Monday. LCCI President Mian Abuzar Shad, Vice President Shahid Nazir Chaudhry, Convener of LCCI Standing Committee on City District Government Liaison Khawaja Sohail Mehmood Butt and Executive Committee members discussed a range of critical issues.

The deputy commissioner assured his support for resolving these concerns in a fair and timely manner.

LCCI President Mian Abuzar Shad and Vice President Shahid Nazir Chaudhry mentioned the ongoing parking problems in city markets including Hall Road, Brandreth Road, Akbari Mandi, Mall Road, Circular Road and Ichhra etc.

They said that Lahore's business hubs suffer from severe parking congestion, which hampers trade and creates inconvenience for customers. They urged the government to prioritize the construction of parking plazas in these areas. Furthermore, they recommended involvement of the private sector to expedite the process and where space is limited, rotary parking solutions should be explored.

LCCI office-bearers called for immediate action to address fire safety in Lahore's markets, citing fire incidents that resulted in substantial damage to businesses. They called for the installation of water hydrants in critical locations.

They said that it is crucial to prevent further losses by installing fire hydrants and ensuring adequate safety infrastructure in the markets. They urged the relevant authorities to take swift action in this regard.

Mian Abuzar Shad said that security in industrial estates and commercial areas remains a top priority. He called for enhanced law enforcement and the installation of Safe City cameras in areas lacking surveillance.

'A secure business environment is key to fostering economic growth. Strengthening security measures will not only protect businesses but also encourage investment in the region,' the LCCI office-bearers added.

Deputy Commissioner commended the business community's cooperation in supporting the government's initiatives to reduce smog levels in Lahore.

LCCI President Mian Abuzar Shad highlighted the chamber's role in organizing awareness sessions and partnering with organizations such as PBIT and the Environmental Protection Agency to implement smog-reduction measures.

The LCCI office-bearers praised the Deputy Commissioner's office for its successful efforts in tackling encroachments in major commercial areas, which had long been a barrier to smooth business operations.

They appreciated the action taken by your office to remove encroachments and improve market accessibility. This initiative is vital for the smooth flow of business activities and we remain committed to supporting this cause.

LCCI also stressed the need for private sector representation in administrative committees. The chamber believes that inclusion of business leaders in decision-making processes will improve policy implementation and foster a more conducive business environment. They said that inclusion of the business community in the development of policies and regulations ensures that these measures are practical and effective.

LCCI Vice President Shahid Nazir Chaudhry briefed the participants about the upcoming Lahore Shopping Festival, set to take place from January 31 to February 2 at the Expo Center Lahore. The festival will feature a three-day exhibition along with numerous events aimed at promoting Lahore's retail sector. The LCCI called for the Deputy Commissioner's support to ensure the festival's success.

It was agreed that collaboration between LCCI and the city administration would be enhance to resolve the challenges faced by Lahore's business community. LCCI President Mian Abuzar Shad expressed his gratitude to Deputy Commissioner Syed Musa Raza for his time and engagement, ensuring that the chamber would continue to support future initiatives.

Lahore: Fog continues to rein in various cities of Punjab, while motorways have been closed at several places due to low visibility.

A Motorway police spokesperson told reporter that Motorway M-2 from Lahore to Kot Momin is closed, while M-3 from Lahore to Multan is also closed.

He said that traffic entry was prohibited on M-4 from Pindi Bhattian to Multan, entry on Motorway M-5 from Multan to Uch Sharif was closed, Lahore-Sialkot Motorway M-11 was also closed due to fog, and traffic flow was affected on national highways due to low visibility.

Spokesman said that drivers should use front and rear fog lights in their vehicles so that other vehicles could be seen better. Citizens have also been instructed to avoid unnecessary travel.

Meanwhile, in an travel advisory, the Motorway Police urged road users to obtain the latest information from the National Highways and Motorway Police official social media accounts before travelling on motorways across Pakistan.

Lahore: The National Engineering Services Pakistan (Nespak) and Parks and Horticulture Authority Lahore (PHA) have amended the initial design of first-ever floating restaurant, bringing three changes and consulting whether to remain it stagnant or moving or giving it the shape of double-decker.

Ghazali Saleem Butt, Chairman PHA Lahore, told reporter that the Parks and Horticulture Authority was all-out to enhance beautification of Lahore. He said Rs 350 million Lahore floating restaurant project was a unique project, announced by the PHA. Located near Harbanspura along the canal, the floating restaurant is set to become a major attraction in the city, he added.

To a query Ghazali Butt said the project would feature a variety of amenities including seating areas, children's play zones, and recreational facilities, offering a distinctive dining experience for locals and tourists alike. He said three companies had been pre-qualified for construction, and the project is expected to be completed soon.

"We will be providing smooth, adorable and lively environment to citizens mainly by innovative ideas, planting more trees, developing parks, greenbelts, flowerbeds, horticulture landscapes and with some aesthetic displays," he added.

The PHA Lahore would be one of the best and top most institution of the government, in its organisation, performance, delivery, creativity, innovation and last but not the least in use of scientific methodology, he added.

The proposed project would entail one, a floating dining boat; two, its cafes and seating areas; and three, play zones for children providing a relaxed and entertaining atmosphere.

Likewise, the PHA may also consider developing another off-peak picnic ground, thus enhancing the canal area and providing comprehensive leisure activities.

Lahore: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has taken a revolutionary step to modernize Lahore's transport infrastructure by directing the development of separate lanes for cyclists and motorcyclists on city roads. This initiative aims to protect bikers and cyclists from accidents and improve overall traffic flow. The CM said, "Cyclists and motorcyclists will be protected from accidents, and biker lanes will be built on all roads of Lahore in a phased manner." She revealed that work on Phase-I of the project is already underway, with construction focused on the stretch from Ferozepur Road Canal Road to Lahore Bridge. The 10-kilometer biker lane is being designed in an eye-catching green color to enhance visibility and reflect the modern global concept of bike-friendly infrastructure. The CM emphasized, 'This initiative will not only reduce accidents but also streamline traffic flow in Lahore.' The CM directed the authorities concerned to ensure the highest construction quality for the bik er lanes, reinforcing her commitment to providing safe and efficient transport facilities for the city's residents.

Lahore: The three-day 33rd annual Urs celebrations of renowned spiritual scholar Hazrat Wasif Ali Wasif will start from January 23. The Urs will commence with the ceremonial laying of Chaddar after Asr prayer. Former provincial minister Sardar Nasrullah Khan Dreshak and Diwan Azmat Mahmood, along with devotees, will perform the ritual. This will be followed by a session of Na'at recitation. On Jan 24, a seminar focusing on the personality and teachings of Hazrat Wasif Ali Wasif will be held at Alhamra. Professor Hasan Askari Kazmi will preside over the seminar. Later in the evening, a Mehfil-e-Sama will be held. On the third day, the Urs will conclude with a special prayer.