LCCI lauds private sector’s inclusion in industrial zoning process

LAHORE: Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Faheem-ur-Rehman Saigol has said that the Punjab government’s decision to include the private sector in the industrial zoning process is a welcome step, however, the problems of the existing industries should also be resolved on priority basis.

Highlighting the industry’s hardships, he said that industrialists in Lahore are currently facing major issues, including shortage of land and the relocation of industries.

He said the promotion of industries is essential for creating employment opportunities and strengthening the economy. However, under the current circumstances, it has become very difficult to establish a new industry or operate an existing one. He urged the government to resolve the problems of industrialists on a priority basis so that investment and industrial growth are not affected.

He was addressing a meeting on the identification of suitable land for the establishment of a Small Industrial Estate in Lahore. The meeting was attended by LCCI Senior Vice President Tanveer Ahmed Sheikh, former president Muhammad Ali Mian, Punjab Small Industries Corporation Regional Director Muzammil Hassan Chaudhry, Director Sabih Zaka, Assistant Director Legal Amjad Abbas Shah, Executive Committee members Ahad Amin Malik, Rana Nisar, Mohsin Bashir, Iftikhar Ahmed, Rana Shaban Akhtar, Syed Hassan Raza, and other representatives.

Faheem said the business community has faced several challenges during the past year, but industrial zoning and the relocation of industries have become the most important issues. He said existing industrialists serve as an example for new investors, but when industrialists face problems on a daily basis, it discourages new investment.

Referring to the proposed industrial zone near Pindi Das, he said that around 300 industrial units could be established there. He suggested that at least 50 percent of the capacity should be reserved for industries that need to be relocated from their current locations.

Punjab Small Industries Corporation Regional Director Lahore, Muzammil Hassan Chaudhry, said that industrial zoning has become a necessity due to Lahore’s rapidly growing population and urban expansion. He said when many industries were established, there were no nearby residential areas, but over time housing developments expanded around them, creating the need for modern industrial zones.

He said industries should be shifted to suitable locations to ensure environmental protection, safety standards, and better facilities for citizens. He added the objective of the Punjab Small Industries Corporation is to facilitate industrialists, create employment opportunities, and promote economic growth. He further said that preliminary work on the proposed project near Pindi Das has already begun and various aspects are being reviewed.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026