CHANDIGARH: A significant transformation is unfolding in the heart of India’s most carefully planned city. Over the last six months, almost 50 acres of valuable government land—previously encroached upon by slums, unauthorized colonies, and informal markets—has been reclaimed by the city administration through a vigorous anti-encroachment initiative.
This area, once a tangle of tin roofs and narrow paths, is set to be redeveloped with modern infrastructure and various long-awaited civic projects. The shift in the cityscape is evident, starting with the demolition of Sanjay Colony in April and culminating in the recent razing of Adarsh Colony—each bulldozer pushing the city toward a new vision.
“For years, critical projects were on hold due to unavailability of land,” explained a senior UT official. “Now that these encroachments have been removed, we can advance Chandigarh’s next growth phase.”
“The reclaimed lands will be allocated to relevant departments such as the UT engineering department, Chandigarh Housing Board (CHB), and the municipal corporation,” the official stated.
During a recent meeting led by Punjab Governor and UT Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria, details were shared on the intended use of the freed-up land.
In April, the administration successfully reclaimed 6 acres worth approximately ₹300 crore by demolishing Sanjay Colony in Industrial Area Phase-1, where 1,200 hutments were leveled and around 6,000 residents were displaced.
“This land will be utilized for industrial plots, with significant portions designated for a railway yard and godowns,” the official added.
Continuing this reclamation effort, in May, the administration demolished Janta Colony in Sector 25, recovering 10 acres of valuable government land estimated at ₹450 crore. More than 10,000 residents were affected and 2,500 structures were torn down during this operation.
“Since much of these encroachments existed within an established resettlement colony, it paves the way for long-delayed development initiatives, including parks, shopping areas, a creche, a school, and a community center. Furthermore, plans to create a substantial green belt in the area are underway,” the official mentioned.
On June 19, the administration also dismantled Adarsh Colony, located between Sector 53 and 54, reclaiming around 12 acres of prime government land assessed at ₹500 crore, with approximately 800 hutments removed during the initiative. Earlier, 10 acres were reclaimed from an unauthorized religious site in Sector 53.
“This land is critical for the city’s expansion, earmarked for the third phase of development. While the first two phases have been completed, the third phase has faced delays for years—largely due to land encroachments. Now, both the administration and CHB can proceed with planned residential, commercial, and institutional development in this area,” noted the official.
The administration is poised to reclaim an additional 15 acres in Sector 53-54 following the demolition of the furniture market, which will also contribute to the third phase of the city’s development.
