LDA Announces Digital Property Transaction System
LAHORE: The Lahore Development Authority (LDA) has unveiled plans to introduce a fully digital property transaction system designed to curb fraud, eliminate illegal dealings, and eradicate the long-standing real estate file culture. Starting July 1, all property buying and selling within LDA-controlled housing schemes will be conducted exclusively through a Property Certificate issued by the Punjab Land Records Authority (PLRA). No transaction will be legally recognized without this certificate.
According to an official notification, any transfer or sale carried out without the certificate will trigger legal action under the LDA Act 1975. Officials stated that the move aims to provide legal protection to citizens' property records through QR-coded certificates, enabling instant access to complete ownership details. Under the new system, the practice of file-based property trading will be discontinued within LDA jurisdiction.
Housing Schemes Directed to Transfer Records
All private housing schemes have been directed to transfer their records to the Housing Societies Management System (HSMS) by June 30. LDA officials said that housing schemes will be able to issue certificates and registries through a digital portal, with the system integrated with the powers of the sub-registrar to streamline approvals and record-keeping.
NAB Chairman Announces Reforms
In parallel, National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Chairman Lieutenant General (retired) Nazir Ahmed Butt announced reforms aimed at improving transparency in the real estate sector, discouraging cash transactions, and strengthening regulatory oversight. Addressing a meeting at the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), he said authorities are working to eliminate fraudulent practices, non-transparent deals, and the traditional file system from property markets.
He stated that future property transactions will increasingly be routed through banking channels, while housing schemes will be required to maintain verified inventories and transparent records. Additionally, housing schemes will not be allowed to sell more plots than available in their approved land banks. A one-window mechanism is being developed to reduce regulatory delays for developers and investors.
MoU Signed Between NAB and LCCI
A memorandum of understanding was signed between NAB and LCCI to enhance coordination with the business community. The NAB chairman advised citizens to verify NOCs, approved layout plans, and legal status before investing in any real estate project to avoid fraud. Separately, NAB distributed Rs462 million among affected citizens of several housing societies and investment schemes.
