Program Implementation Unit, Planning & Development (P&D) Board, Government of the Punjab in collaboration with the World Bank and Board of Investment organized an 'Ease of Doing Business Reforms' stakeholder engagement session.

The session aimed at apprising the contributors of the key reform initiatives implemented under starting a business and dealing with construction permits indicators by Government of the Punjab. During the interactive session, Sumair Ahmed Syed, Director General, Lahore Development Authority (LDA) and Kamran Pervaiz, Director, LDA, briefed the contributors of the key reforms implemented under Dealing with Construction Permits indicator.

LDA has automated the process of submitting building permit application and has provided an e-payment facility for maps approval and completion certificates through Allied Bank. LDA has also introduced a mobile application 'Insaaf Portal' for its E-permit system. Furthermore, the cost and time for obtaining water connection has been reduced by Water & Sanitation Agency (WASA).

The contributors were also notified of the key reforms implemented under Starting a Business indicator. Businesses can now be registered instantly through the Securities & Exchange Commission of Pakistan's (SECP) portal with provincial departments i.e. Labor & Human Resource Department, Punjab Employees Social Security Institution and Excise & Taxation Department.-PR