Building Control Regimes in Pakistan: Policies and Practices

Abstract

Building control is a system to ensure the safety, structural soundness and stability, fitness and sustainability of buildings, through the enforcement of building regulations. Pakistan's building control system operates across federal, provincial, and local levels, emphasizing land-use and building regulations. The government and development authorities ensure adherence to zoning laws, master plans, and land-use policies for sustainable development. They enforce licensing and inspection processes to maintain safety and compliance. The rapid urban expansion and increasing commercialization of Lahore have introduced significant challenges in implementing effective building control measures. This research examines the performance of regulatory frameworks governing commercial structures in areas managed by the Lahore Development Authority (LDA), Metropolitan Corporation Lahore (MCL), and Lahore Cantonment Board (LCB). Using a mixed-methods approach, the study combines data from field surveys and interviews to assess adherence to regulations related to safety, accessibility, and sustainable development. The analysis reveals varying compliance levels across jurisdictions, with LDA leading at 70%, followed by LCB at 64%, and MCL at 58%. While LDA shows higher adherence, inconsistencies suggest uneven enforcement. Conversely, MCL exhibits consistent but inadequate implementation, while LCB demonstrates moderate outcomes. Indicators such as spatial allocation and pedestrian pathways are identified as pivotal to regulatory success. Institutional bottlenecks, including administrative inefficiencies, external pressures, and a lack of transparency, further impede enforcement. Feedback from stakeholders highlights procedural difficulties, inadequate support mechanisms, and unmet public expectations concerning infrastructure quality and safety. Benchmarking against cities like New York, Kuala Lumpur, and Mumbai, the study identifies Lahore’s lag in integrating contemporary practices and sustainability standards. Recommendations include leveraging advanced technologies, harmonizing regulations, improving interagency collaboration, and addressing systemic inefficiencies. By implementing these measures, Lahore can progress toward resilient infrastructure and balanced urban growth.