LAHORE: The Punjab government has proposed a Rs4.23 billion residential project for government officers in Lahore. The project has been included in the development budget for 2026-27.

The proposal was prepared by the Services and General Administration Department. It involves government-owned land along Burki Road in Lahore Cantonment.

The proposed site covers around 60 kanals and one marla. The plan includes 24 two-bedroom apartments for government officers. The apartment building will have a basement, ground floor and six additional floors.

The estimated cost of the main apartment building is more than Rs2.05 billion. The project also includes several facilities for residents and visitors.

These facilities include a VIP gym, library and indoor games area. A seminar room, executive lounge and café are also part of the proposal.

A separate convention hall has been proposed under the project. The estimated cost of the hall is around Rs547.2 million. It will cover approximately 40,246 square feet.

The Punjab government has also planned parking facilities at the site. Surface parking is proposed for 164 cars and 47 motorcycles.

The project budget includes significant allocations for power and external infrastructure. More than Rs145 million has been proposed for generators.

Another Rs55.4 million has been earmarked for a solar power system. More than Rs335.8 million has also been allocated for external works.

The proposal includes over Rs152 million for furniture. Around Rs10 million has been set aside for gym equipment.

However, the project’s cost has raised concerns within the provincial planning authorities. The technical wing of the Planning and Development Department has questioned several expenses.

Officials have raised questions about imported construction materials. They have also examined the need for expensive and high-end facilities.

The technical wing has called for a fresh review of several major cost components. These include lifts, heating and cooling systems and power generators.

The review will also cover solar systems and backup power arrangements. Officials want to determine whether these expenses can be reduced.

The Provincial Development Working Party has also raised concerns. According to project documents, the overall cost of more than Rs4.23 billion is considered excessive.

One specific concern involves the proposed basement. Officials noted that the basement would mainly provide parking for 26 vehicles.

The planning authorities have questioned the efficiency of this arrangement. They have suggested examining surface parking instead.

Officials said sufficient space appears to be available at the proposed site. Therefore, surface parking could potentially replace the costly basement.

The project is planned for completion within 24 months. Its final scope and cost could change following the technical review.

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The proposal comes as Punjab has emphasized fiscal discipline in its 2026-27 budget. The provincial budget includes measures aimed at rationalizing government expenditure.