Impact Assessment of Commercialization of Main Roads in Planned Housing Schemes: A Case Study of PIA Housing Scheme

Abstract

The phenomenon of commercialization of residential properties is taking place rapidly. Although conversion of landuse from residential to commercial in built-up areas is not new in developing countries but planned housing schemes also start experiencing this land-use conversion, and now are no more predominantly residential. Furthermore, declaring a road commercial by the competent authorities, even without taking necessary improvements in infrastructure and consent of the community, further exaggerate the problem.  The negative consequences of this phenomenon have a severe effects on residential areas and include environmental problems, traffic congestion, noise, and air pollution, and affect the residential character of the area in negative manner for which they were initially developed. The aim of the study is to describe briefly about remits of commercialization polices in Lahore and then to assess the functionality of commercialized residential roads through assessment criteria based upon the indicators established to assess capacity of road infrastructure before declaring it commercial. This includes road management plan, details of road network with condition of road, its width, Pedestrian and Public transport facilities, structure, including the primary, mixed-use, and secondary nodes. Perception of the users and residents regarding the change in the use of land is also weighed up. The findings of this research will draw the attention of responsible authorities to improve the design guidelines, which are essential to consider before commercializing the residential roads.