There’s been a rising trend for agrihoods all over the world, including in Pakistan. If you’re confused by the term, just know that agrihoods are basically neighbourhoods with residences based on or around farmland. So, we’ve had this trend in areas like Bedian and Burki Road in Lahore, and in Banigala in Islamabad.
Why agrihoods?
This new concept fits perfectly with the growing awareness about living in a healthy way and prioritising a peaceful lifestyle not too far from mainstream urban facilities. Especially with the new generation of property buyers, the idea of living a quality lifestyle with access to healthy organic produce holds a lot of appeal. In addition, it promotes agricultural land and nature, providing a counter to the urbanisation and pollution that has become the bane of every urban homeowner.
What agrihoods do we have in Pakistan?
As of yet, there are no officially declared agrihoods in Pakistan, but any developer who utilises this idea can expect a very positive response. Currently, the outskirts of main cities are utilised by their owners for organic farming not too far from the main city. In Lahore, this trend is prevalent in areas like Bedian, Ferozepur Road, Burki Road, Raiwind, and Multan Road. Farmhouses are also quite common in Islamabad, especially in areas like Banigala. The key is that these agrihoods should be near urban centres so that residents can easily access health, education, and recreational facilities and not have too long of a commute to work.
In addition, people have begun using this trend to generate income by selling organic produce grown on their farms. With the rising awareness about health in Pakistan, the demand for this is increasing, as can be seen by the ever-increasing number of regular farmers markets and organic stores in cities. So, agrihoods provide the dual benefit of a peaceful lifestyle and a business opportunity.
Is it that simple?
However, know that maintaining a farm might seem like a romantic notion that you must follow, but it requires a lot of hard work and investment. You will have to hire professionals to maintain your farmland.
An interesting trend seen in agrihoods overseas is that developers take the responsibility of maintaining farmland, while residents live in homes around it. This leads to a maintained standard and means that residents do not have to dedicate large amounts of time and effort to farming and can easily work regular jobs and have the option to help out on the farm in their free time.
Who are they for?
This is the kind of arrangement perfect for corporate professionals who want a peaceful and healthy lifestyle without compromising on their jobs. In addition, families can also greatly benefit from agrihoods, as they can raise their children in a healthy environment with fresh outdoor facilities, and still be near good schools. Road networks like the Lahore Ring Road and Islamabad Expressway have also greatly contributed to this trend, as they make life for residents of suburban areas much more convenient with the accessibility they bring.
If you’re interested in agrihoods, the better option right now is buying open land in the suburbs of your city, or investing in the burgeoning farmhouse societies in Pakistan. If you want to know more about this trend, talk to us in the comments section below!
No comments:
Post a Comment