LAHORE: Lahore Development Authority (LDA) Chief Town Planner Chaudhry Muhammad Akram has said that land records are being computerized and the process will be completed by April 2015.
He was addressing at a meeting at the Lahore Chamber of Commerce & Industry. The meeting was presided over by LCCI President Engineer Sohail Lashari. Akram said that computerization of land records would bring transparency in the system. He said that a proposal has been forwarded to Chief Minister Punjab that 50 percent rebate may be given to the educational and health institutions on their commercialization fees.
Speaking on the occasion, President of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce & Industry Engineer Sohail Lashari said that LDA has carried out various developmental projects and is being seen making efforts for the uplift of the city. Business community appreciate the efforts of this department for trying to facilitate the people for better services.
The LCCI President said that none of the members of the business community are unwilling to pay taxes. In fact we are the ones who believe that the tax bracket should be broadened but unfortunately the utilization and implementation of policies is not well implemented. He said that at present the commercialization fee is to be paid in four installments. He suggested extending it to 12 installments as this would minimize the financial burden on the business community which is already under great deal of stress due to un-desirable business conditions prevailing in the country.
Engineer Sohail Lashari said that at present the temporary commercialization fee is being paid in installments for a certain time period. In case of default the already paid amount is forfeited and the incumbent is asked to pay the total mount of commercialization fee. He suggested changing the existing clause by only charging the remaining amount of commercialization fee instead of forfeiting the amount already paid. He urged the LDA official to invite private sector representatives in the official meetings of Lahore Development Authority to get their feedback.
LCCI Vice President Kashif Anwar stressed the need for construction of parking plazas in various part of the city to resolve the issue of traffic mess. He said that official website of Lahore Development Authority should be updated on regular basis.
