LAHORE: The Board of Directors of Horticulture Agency Lahore has approved a budget of Rs. 9.6 billion for the fiscal year 2026-27, focusing on various administrative, financial, and operational enhancements to improve the agency’s performance and public services. This decision was made during the board’s second meeting, chaired by Ghazali Saleem Butt.

According to Directorate General Public Relation – Govt of Punjab, the meeting was attended by key figures including Ahmad Usman Javaid, Managing Director of the agency, and representatives from various departments such as Housing, Finance, and Planning and Development. The board approved several key initiatives, including a Rs. 50 million allocation for the Chrysanthemum Exhibition 2027 and the adoption of Punjab’s Service Rules and Pension Rules to improve the agency’s administrative framework.

The board also decided on financial adjustments, such as a 12.5 percent service charge on deposit works, a 5 percent increase in outdoor advertisement rates, and a 10 percent hike in park booking charges for events. Additionally, the Director Coordination was empowered to impose penalties on lease condition violations.

Under a Public-Private Partnership framework, Fatima Jinnah Park, Shadman, will be managed by Crescent School, and executive washrooms will be developed in parks to enhance public facilities. The meeting also approved the leasing of the cinema and open-air theatre at Greater Iqbal Park and the provision of uniforms for field and security staff.

The board’s decisions reflect a strategic focus on strengthening operational efficiency and providing better facilities to Lahore’s citizens.