On Tuesday, a number of landowners and farmers demonstrated against the Ravi Riverfront Urban Development Project because they claim that the state-owned Ravi Urban Development Authority (Ruda), which is in charge of carrying out the massive project, “forced possession” of their farmlands.
The Ruda has denied the assertions made by the demonstrators who assembled before its Lahore headquarters and brandished placards saying that the procedure of acquiring land was “illegal” and went against the Supreme Court’s ruling.
According to protesters, the government was to carry out the project on the property that had already been obtained by the authority for the project and not take land from farmers by coercion.
According to Kissan Action Committee Convener Mian Mustafa Rasheed, “but contrary to this, the Sheikhupura revenue administration together with the authorities concerned are forcibly taking possession of the land owned by the farmers through fake intiqal (transfer of ownership).
The demonstrators, who were accompanied by the former PML-N minister Bilal Yasin and others, accused the Punjab government of seizing their farmland and threatened it with a “serious reaction” if they were forced off the land of their ancestors.
Later, Ruda officials made an effort to assuage the protesters’ fears. In a meeting with farmers, they promised that in Ravi city, “farmers are being paid for their property in a timely manner with a fixed package,” so there would be no violation of landowners’ rights.
Imran Amin, CEO of Ruda, stated during the event that at least 70% of landowners have received payment for their properties through the provincial Board of Revenue. He said that the initiative “ensured the wellbeing” of the people in addition to providing work possibilities and that the authority was prepared to address the concerns of the remaining farmers. He said that this project will bring in $40 billion in revenue and added that a 3,500-acre industrial zone would be created.
He asserted that flood damages might be reduced by building top-notch river training works and barrages, and that the creation of three lakes would raise the water level in Lahore. The official added that designating the Rakh Jhok Forest as a national park will advance both tourism and aquatic life.
It is important to note that some farmers who have not yet received compensation have rejected the land acquisition procedure, calling the provincial government’s actions unconstitutional.
The government has asserted that the project is acquiring land in accordance with all applicable laws, rules, and regulations.
