Daroghawala needs urgent government recognition and support to realize its full industrial potential
By M Qadeer
In an exclusive conversation with Rana Shouban Akhtar, Chairman of the Daroghawala Industry Owners Association and Executive Committee Member of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), pressing concerns regarding the state of Daroghawala’s industrial zone came to light. Rana Shouban called on the federal and provincial governments to finally give Daroghawala the recognition and support it deserves, emphasizing that the area holds untapped potential to significantly contribute to Pakistan’s economic growth.
Q: Daroghawala is often referred to as the largest cluster of SMEs and cottage industries in Lahore. What’s the current state of the area?
Rana Shouban Akhtar: Despite having over 2,000 industrial units — mostly SMEs and cottage-scale manufacturers — Daroghawala has not been granted the status of an Industrial Estate. This lack of official recognition means we’re deprived of fundamental facilities like planned infrastructure, vocational education, uninterrupted electricity, law and order enforcement, and social security access.
This is a glaring neglect. We contribute millions in monthly taxes and utility payments, yet we are still waiting for basic services that are standard in other recognized industrial zones.
Q: What are the main demands of the Daroghawala Industry Owners Association from the government?
Rana Shouban Akhtar: We’ve outlined a clear set of demands, most of which align perfectly with the government’s own economic vision. These include:
Granting Daroghawala the status of an Industrial or Export Processing Zone.
Inclusion in SMEDA and Export Promotion Programs as a priority zone.
Establishment of a Vocational Training Institute to skill local labor.
Allocation of social protection funds for workers.
Special incentives for trade fairs and exhibitions to connect our SMEs with buyers.
Fast-track infrastructure development — roads, drainage, and logistics upgrades.
Uninterrupted power supply, through a dedicated LESCO subdivision.
Inclusion in federal industry support grants, especially those announced in the recent budget.
These steps are not favors; they are overdue essentials for a sector that is already contributing to exports, employment, and innovation.
Q: You mentioned electricity issues. Could you elaborate?
Rana Shouban Akhtar: This is perhaps the most pressing issue. We had initially proposed setting up a dedicated lesco subdivision to address systemic electricity issues. But implementation has been delayed again and again. As an interim solution, LESCO approved a local sub-office with two linemen, a crane, and essential staff — and we even offered a rent-free building — but execution is still pending.
These power disruptions paralyze production, delay export orders, and force layoffs. For a country already struggling economically, can we afford to bleed revenue like this?
Q: What are the social and labor-related concerns of the area?
Rana Shouban Akhtar: Our workforce is the backbone of this industrial area. Yet, there’s no Labour Colony, no Social Security Hospital, and no Labour School for their families. These are basic facilities promised by the government time and again, but never delivered.
Also, recent amendments to labor laws are putting extra pressure on small-scale units. Earlier, a union required 50 workers; now just 20 can form one. Similarly, previously social security registration was needed for five workers, now it’s mandatory for even two. This puts an unfair burden on small units, discouraging formalization.
Q: What role can the government and foreign investors play in uplifting Daroghawala?
Rana Shouban Akhtar: We’ve had delegations from abroad, especially from Africa, to visit our area — many times — but they walk away due to the lack of infrastructure. Investors need confidence. They need proper roads, logistics support, uninterrupted energy, and legal protection. If the government focuses even slightly on Daroghawala, this area can become a major industrial revenue generator, not just for Lahore but for all of Pakistan.
Q: Have you approached LCCI or relevant authorities with your concerns?
Rana Shouban Akhtar: Absolutely. We are in constant coordination with LCCI, government departments, and even the PM’s office. We’ve submitted a comprehensive infrastructure master plan — prepared in consultation with the Chief Metropolitan Officer. We’re just waiting for approvals and resource allocation now. But the longer we wait, the more we lose in productivity, employment, and trust.
Q: Any final message to the authorities and stakeholders?
Rana Shouban Akhtar: Daroghawala is ready to rise. We’re not asking for handouts; we’re asking for recognition, infrastructure, and fair facilitation. If the government is serious about economic revival through SMEs, then Daroghawala must be a priority.
We are ready to work shoulder to shoulder with the authorities. But now is the time for action — not more promises.
