For anyone who’s ever braved Lahore’s bustling Neela Gumbad area, the headache of finding parking is all too familiar. Narrow lanes jammed with cars, motorcycles wedged into every available space, and traffic crawling for blocks.
Now, relief may finally be on the horizon. The Punjab government has officially ratified the construction of an underground parking plaza at Neela Gumbad—it is a much-awaited move to tackle the city’s chronic parking crunch and ease congestion in one of its busiest commercial hubs.
Modern, Efficient, and Underground
This isn’t just any parking lot. The project is going to present three underground levels, making use of 16 kanals of land that’s presently part of a public park. While repurposing green space is always a delicate balance, planners say the goal is to blend practical requirements with thoughtful design.
Costing over Rs. 2.24 billion, the facility will include
- 374 car spaces
- 790 motorcycle slots
These all managed via an automated parking system designed to make parking smoother, faster, and more organized.
Just suppose you are driving in, scanning your ticket, and having a clear, automated guide to a free space—no more circling for half an hour or squeezing between rickshaws and street vendors.
Collaboration for a Better Lahore
The project is also remarkable for its multi-agency approach. The Traffic Engineering and Planning Agency (TEPA) will oversee the construction itself, ensuring the technical and engineering side is solid. Meanwhile, the Walled City of Lahore Authority will take charge of landscaping and beautification, promising that the space above ground would not be left as a concrete wasteland.
Instead, the plan is all about revitalizing Neela Gumbad itself, guaranteeing that it retains its historical significance and charm, despite receiving the modern touches.
Backing from the Provincial Government
The proposal was submitted by the Local Government Department and received its official go-ahead during a meeting of the Provincial Development Working Party conducted under the Planning & Development Board.
For the government, this is more than just a construction project—it’s considered to be the integral component of a broader vision to make Lahore’s crowded commercial centers more navigable, business-friendly, and livable.
Read more: First-ever digital car parking project of Islamabad launched at G-8 Markaz
Relief for Commuters and Businesses
When complete, the parking plaza is anticipated to offer major relief to commuters and businesses in Neela Gumbad, New Anarkali, and all the nearby areas. Fewer cars clogging narrow roads means
- Easier deliveries
- Safer pedestrian movement
- A boost for local shops that depend on foot traffic
Ultimately, the Neela Gumbad underground parking plaza is about reimagining urban space in a city that never stops growing, and making certain Lahore
- Stays welcoming
- Vibrant
- Accessible for everyone