Mr. Zafar Masud (President & CEO – The Bank of Punjab)’s interview for Voice of Ruda
Source BOP Official Facebook
See more: Zafar Masud Discusses Economy Taxation PIA Crash & More in TBT Podcast
Voice of RUDA
Voice of RUDA (VOR) is an official channel for the updates, happenings and news on developing scenarios of Ravi City.
RUDA – Ravi Urban Development Authority
The idea of an urban development on the Ravi riverfront was first suggested in 1947 by the then Deputy Commissioner of Lahore. In 2013, the Government of Punjab began considering the project, which was initially planned to span over 18,000 hectares (44,000 acres). In 2014, Lahore Development Authority hired an Asian engineering company Meinhardt to run a feasibility study on Ravi River for the execution of the project. The finalised project with some modifications was inaugurated by the Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan on 7 August 2020.
The Ravi Urban Development Authority (RUDA), established in 2020, is on a mission to transform the urban landscape of Pakistan. Their central project, the Ravi Riverfront Urban Development Project (RRUDP), is a colossal undertaking that envisions a brand new, meticulously planned city stretching 46 kilometers along the Ravi River near Lahore. This isn’t just about constructing buildings; RUDA’s vision is a multi-pronged approach, encompassing environmental, economic, and social aspects to create a truly sustainable and thriving metropolis.
Building a Sustainable Future:
- Smart City Mastermind: RUDA isn’t just laying down roads and erecting buildings. They’re planning a city that leverages cutting-edge smart city technologies. Imagine a city with an intelligent traffic management system that analyzes real-time data to optimize traffic flow, reducing congestion and emissions. Residents might benefit from smart waste collection systems and efficient use of resources like water and energy through a connected infrastructure network.
- Urban Oasis: Environmental sustainability is a cornerstone of RUDA’s vision. A key element is the revitalization of the Ravi River itself, transforming it into a perennial source of freshwater. The city design will incorporate extensive green spaces like parks, walkways, and tree-lined boulevards. These green corridors not only enhance aesthetics but also promote clean air, reduce the urban heat island effect, and provide recreational areas for residents. RUDA might even explore incorporating sustainable building practices and renewable energy sources to minimize the city’s environmental footprint.
Engine for Economic Prosperity:
- Business Hub of the Future: The new city isn’t envisioned as merely a residential space; it’s designed to be a magnet for businesses. RUDA might establish special economic zones with tax breaks and other incentives to attract domestic and international corporations. This influx of businesses will create a wealth of job opportunities, boost the local economy, and potentially position the city as a regional commercial center. The ripple effect could be significant, with the potential to attract talent, investment, and further stimulate economic growth in the surrounding areas.
- Investing in People: To support the needs of future businesses, RUDA might play a crucial role in developing a skilled workforce. This could involve collaborating with educational institutions to create programs that equip students with the skills and knowledge most relevant to the new city’s industries. Imagine universities offering specialized courses in areas like renewable energy, smart city technologies, or sustainable construction practices, ensuring a talent pool that aligns perfectly with the city’s needs.
Building a Vibrant Community:
- Live, Work, Play: RUDA plans to create a dynamic city with a thoughtful mix of residential, commercial, and recreational areas. This mixed-use development approach fosters a sense of community where residents can live, work, and enjoy leisure activities within a close-knit environment. Imagine a city where you can walk or bike to your workplace, have easy access to shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, all within a short distance from your home. This creates a more sustainable lifestyle, reducing reliance on cars and promoting a more walkable, connected community.
- Social Infrastructure & Public Spaces: The new city will need a robust network of public spaces like parks, squares, community centers, and cultural venues. These spaces will provide opportunities for social interaction, cultural events, and a sense of belonging for residents. Additionally, RUDA might be involved in ensuring the development of essential social infrastructure like schools, hospitals, and libraries to cater to the needs of the population as the city grows.
The Ravi Riverfront Urban Development Project is a complex and ambitious undertaking. RUDA’s success will depend on their ability to balance these various priorities – creating a sustainable city with a smart infrastructure, fostering economic growth through business development and workforce skilling, and building a thriving community with a strong social fabric. If achieved, RRUDP has the potential to serve as a beacon of innovation for future urban development projects around the world, demonstrating how to create a city that is not just functional but also environmentally conscious, economically vibrant, and a desirable place to live, work, and raise a family.