LCCI condemns demolition of Lahore birds market amid ongoing negotiations

By Our Staff Reporter Farzana Chaudhry

LAHORE, Pakistan, Nov 6, 2025: The Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has strongly condemned the demolition of nearly 150 shops at the Bhaati Gate Birds Market, describing the action as unilateral and excessively harsh, taken without consultation with the business community or affected traders.

In a statement issued on Thursday, LCCI President Faheem Ur Rehman Saigol, Senior Vice President Tanveer Ahmed Sheikh, and Vice President Khurram Lodhi termed the move a “financial murder of small traders” who were already under severe economic strain due to inflation and rising operational costs.

The LCCI leadership said the Birds Market, a long-established and historic commercial hub, has supported the livelihoods of around 1,500 families for decades. They added that demolishing the market without any relocation or compensation plan has pushed hundreds of families to the brink of financial collapse.

The Chamber further clarified that negotiations were already underway with the relevant authorities regarding the site, and that progress was being made toward a mutually acceptable solution. Despite this, the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) conducted the demolition operation abruptly, “bypassing all dialogue channels and disregarding the ongoing consultation process,” the statement said.

The LCCI office-bearers warned that such unilateral actions erode the confidence of the business community, disrupt commercial activity, and jeopardize economic stability at a time when Pakistan is struggling for growth.

They urged the Punjab government to take immediate notice of the issue and provide relief to the affected shopkeepers through compensation, rehabilitation, and allocation of alternative business spaces.

The LCCI reaffirmed its commitment to stand by the affected traders and continue advocating for their rights until their livelihoods are restored.