LAHORE – The Punjab government has announced that Lahore’s famous Anarkali market, along with busy shopping areas like Nila Gunbad and Bakshi Market, will soon be converted into pedestrian-only zones.
Under the new plan, cars, motorcycles, and other vehicles will not be allowed in these areas. Residents and visitors will be able to walk freely, shop, and enjoy the historic markets without dealing with heavy traffic.
Anarkali, near the Punjab Secretariat, has long faced traffic jams and overcrowding at different times of the day. Lack of parking and narrow roads made it difficult for women, children, and shoppers to move safely, while traders struggled with the daily chaos.
Officials say the pedestrianization project aims to solve these problems by giving priority to people instead of vehicles. The move is expected to create a safer, cleaner, and more enjoyable environment for shoppers and tourists.
Urban planners hope the initiative will make Lahore a model pedestrian-friendly city, combining modern convenience with the charm of its historic markets. Local businesses are also expected to benefit from smoother foot traffic and better-organized shopping areas.
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The transformation of Anarkali and nearby markets is seen as a major step in improving public spaces in Lahore and could serve as an example for other crowded commercial zones across the city.
In another move to modernize city services, the Punjab government has decided to digitalize the Lahore Parking Company (LePARK). The Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) will develop software and systems for daily office work using the e-fast platform, where officers and employees will log in to manage tasks digitally.
PITB sources said staff will receive training to use the system, which is considered secure and environment-friendly, allowing office work to be completed anytime, anywhere. Once implemented, the e-fast system will replace manual files and correspondence.
The Punjab Chief Secretary has made e-fast mandatory for all institutions and departments. Lahore Parking Company, a subsidiary of the Metropolitan Corporation Lahore, was set up to solve the city’s parking problems and improve the existing parking system.
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