The Lahore Development Authority (LDA) on Monday approved execution of two development projects in the city at a cost of Rs2.13 billion.

The projects are construction of an underpass near Firdous Market in Gulberg and an entertainment park in Johar Town.

The meeting was informed that a two-lane dual carriageway full depth underpass would be constructed near Firdous Market at a cost of Rs1.80 billion to address the issue of frequent traffic jams and vehicular congestion in Centre Point, Cavalry Ground and MM Aalam Road areas. The underpass will be 540 feet long and have special water disposal arrangements. No existing structure in the area will be affected as a result of this project and around seven kanals of land will be acquired for this project.

The meeting was informed that an entertainment park will be set up on 140 kanals in Jorhar Town, adjacent to Aleem Dar Cricket Academy. It will be the first of its kind in Lahore that will cost Rs330 million. A jogging track, lake, open gym, basketball court, tennis court and facilities for other outdoor games will be made available at this park.

LDA Chief Engineer Habib Ul Haq Randhawa, Project Directors Abdur Razzaq Chohan and Iqrar Hussain and representatives of the provincial finance as well as planning and development departments and consultants on the project attended the meeting.