Housing - A Response to Urban Crisis

Dialogue between Punjab Affordable Housing Program (PAHP) and Information Technology University, Lahore (ITU) on the role of e-governance and information systems in responding to urban crisis and building sustainable habitat. PAHP is designed around three core objectives: (a) reforming housing policies and regulations, (b) introducing digital systems for efficient delivery, and (c) improving the quality and quantity of affordable housing. To achieve these goals, a series of innovations are introduced. Rules, Regulations and Planning Standards are developed to enable broader participation of the private sector. Digital tools such as the Housing Market Information System, Program Management Information System, and Beneficiary Management Information System are developed to streamline approvals, improve transparency, addressing inequality, and handling multiple crisis due to climate and social vulnerabilities. A Locational and Infrastructure Investment Criteria are established to prioritize infrastructure funds for viable and strategic sites, with the purpose of expanding the pipeline of serviced land available for climate resilient housing. Together, these measures are delivering concrete outcomes by June 2027: more than 35,000 affordable housing units will be developed targeting bottom 40% of income distribution, with at least 20% of units reserved for women and marginalized segments of society.