Acting on the Punjab government's directive, the housing department has begun drafting legislation to expand affordable housing and make home ownership more accessible across the province.
The initiative aims to integrate low-cost, inclusive housing into both public and private sector development, with a focus on placing new homes in areas that offer reliable access to schools, healthcare, transportation, and essential utilities.
The legislative effort will introduce a standardised regulatory framework across all development authorities in Punjab, including the Ravi Urban Development Authority (RUDA), Punjab Housing and Town Planning Agency (PHATA), Central Business District Authority (CBDA), and district-level entities. This alignment is intended to guarantee uniform housing standards and equitable opportunities regardless of location.
A spokesperson for the housing department said the new rules would incorporate Corporate Social Responsibility-based mandates, requiring developers to dedicate a portion of their projects specifically for affordable housing. Developers will be legally obligated to participate in inclusive urban growth, reinforcing the government's commitment to sustainable development and social equity.
In parallel, the 'Apni Chat Apna Ghar' programme continues to gain momentum as a key component of the housing strategy. The interest-free loan scheme for low-income families has benefited over 60,000 households, with total applications surpassing 1.5 million — an indication of broad public engagement. For the 2024-25 fiscal year, the programme exceeded its target of 47,000 families by providing loans to over 51,000 applicants.
At a recent meeting, Housing Secretary Noorul Amin Mengal praised the programme's performance and reaffirmed that the initiative is being implemented without bias or discrimination. Officials who visited completed housing units claimed satisfaction among beneficiaries.
The housing initiative provides interest-free loans.
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