In a significant move to propel the city's growth, the Faisalabad Development Authority (FDA) has expressed its readiness to launch new development initiatives through collaborations with the private sector. This announcement was made by FDA Director General Muhammad Asif Chaudhry during an engagement with the Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FCCI).
Public-Private Partnerships and Major Project Updates
Addressing the business community, DG Chaudhry emphasized that urban development requires collective wisdom and cooperation. He confirmed that the FDA is prepared to initiate new projects under Public-Private Partnership (PPP) or Joint Venture models in collaboration with the FCCI. This approach aims to ensure the comprehensive and integrated development of Faisalabad to meet future demands.
He provided detailed updates on two flagship projects under his direct jurisdiction: FDA City and the FDA Sports Complex. FDA City, spread over 75 squares, is the largest residential colony in the area and is being developed in two phases. The electricity supply for the first phase was finalized a few years ago.
The state-of-the-art Sports Complex within FDA City has been operational for nearly two years. A Master Plan for its expansion has now been prepared, which will introduce several new facilities. In a landmark development, Chaudhry revealed that a 25-acre Natural Park will be established in FDA City, marking it as the first project of its kind in Pakistan. Discussions with both local and foreign investors for this park are planned.
Infrastructure, Allotments, and Regulatory Measures
The DG shared progress on several other fronts. Discussions are underway with the Punjab Government Employees Housing Foundation for the immediate allotment of over 400 completed plots to retired provincial employees in FDA City.
He also informed that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has purchased 8 to 9 kanals of land for offices and residences, while the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has acquired 12 kanals of commercial space. The construction of a Divisional Model School is in progress, with efforts focused on completion before the next semester.
On regulatory issues, Chaudhry stated that the FDA oversees 17 colonies in Faisalabad. He acknowledged problems arising from inconsistent plinth levels on plots where schools are built and affirmed that the authority is employing legal means to curb such violations. He clarified that Canal Road and other major roads are not under FDA control; the agency completes deposit works and hands them over to the Municipal Corporation. He expressed concern over the construction of markets and marquees on Canal Road, which is exacerbating traffic congestion.
Traffic Solutions and Master Plan Initiatives
To address traffic woes, the FDA has proposed specific solutions. Instead of underpasses, the authority has recommended constructing U-turns at certain locations, with roads widened to five lanes. A dedicated ramp proposed in front of the Faisalabad Chamber will be for descending traffic only. This project was submitted to the Annual Development Program (ADP) last year and is expected to be included this year.
Regarding the city's new Master Plan, Chaudhry disclosed that 30,000 kanals have been added to the Green Area to minimize environmental impact. On housing, he noted that 84 out of 111 Katchi Abadis under FDA control have been regularized, excluding settlements on railway land. He highlighted a persistent issue where approximately 60,000 industries are still operating in mixed residential and industrial zones.
Responding to queries, he mentioned that the Metro Bus Service, originally an Asian Development Bank project, is now being planned by the Punjab Government's Transport Department. He hoped Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz would soon visit Faisalabad to lay its foundation stone. On real estate, he cited the significant disparity between FBR, market, and DC rates as a continuing crisis for the sector.
Earlier, FCCI President Farooq Yusuf Sheikh highlighted urban issues pertaining to the FDA and assured the business community's full cooperation. He welcomed the decision to convert the Sports Complex into a club to encourage habitation and called for a ban on illegal parking outside schools and uniform property valuation.
The session was attended by numerous former chamber presidents and members. The meeting concluded with FCCI President Farooq Yusuf Sheikh presenting a special collar pin, shield, and gifts to DG Muhammad Asif Chaudhry.
