LAHORE: Punjab’s flagship Apni Chhat Apna Ghar programme has attracted interest from the World Bank and government institutions in Canada, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye, reflecting growing international recognition of the province’s affordable housing model.
According to officials, a World Bank mission is expected to visit Punjab in the coming weeks to study the programme and explore potential areas of cooperation in affordable housing and housing finance.
The initiative, which provides interest-free housing support for eligible families, has been highlighted by international experts as one of the world’s largest housing finance programmes aimed at expanding homeownership opportunities for low- and middle-income households.
Officials say the programme has emerged as a notable example of social and affordable housing, drawing attention from international development partners seeking practical solutions to housing challenges in developing countries.
Housing model gains international recognition
A spokesperson for the Housing Department said the programme was developed after examining successful housing initiatives from different parts of the world and adapting relevant best practices to local conditions.
The spokesperson noted that Punjab’s housing strategy received international attention during the World Urban Forum in Baku, where the province showcased its approach to housing, urban development and inclusive growth before a global audience.
The Pakistani pavilion at the forum facilitated discussions with international organizations, development institutions and government representatives interested in housing sector reforms and affordable homeownership programmes.
Opportunities for global collaboration
Officials believe the growing international interest could open new avenues for technical cooperation, policy exchange and knowledge-sharing in the field of housing development.
The expected engagement with the World Bank and other international stakeholders may also help strengthen collaboration on urban planning, housing finance and sustainable community development initiatives.
Housing officials said the programme reflects Punjab’s broader efforts to improve access to affordable housing, support first-time homeowners and address housing shortages through innovative financing mechanisms.
The increasing attention from international institutions and foreign governments highlights the programme’s emergence as a case study in affordable housing policy and social housing development.
As discussions continue, officials hope the initiative will not only expand housing opportunities within Punjab but also contribute to broader conversations on affordable housing solutions across the developing world.
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