PANCHKULA: The Panchkula administration has temporarily halted its plan to relocate the illegal Gandhi Colony, a large slum settlement along the route to Mata Mansa Devi Mandir, despite ongoing unsanitary conditions affecting both residents and pilgrims.
City departments began surveying the encroached area in September of last year in preparation for the Navratri festival, with plans to relocate the slum dwellers to Kharag Mangoli.
This decision followed a meeting of the Shri Mata Mansa Devi Shrine Board, chaired by Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, which aimed to make the temple grounds completely free of encroachments to maintain their beauty and significance.
A senior official explained to TOI that the relocation plan was abandoned due to various commitments, including the recent Navratri festival. However, some sources speculate that the upcoming municipal elections could influence this decision.
“Previous attempts to implement this move have failed, often due to a lack of political will. This is a large colony, housing many voters, and relocating them is not straightforward. Additionally, appropriate housing must be secured for their relocation. This Navratri, authorities even covered the colony with sheets to mask its dismal state, suggesting they are not genuinely committed to action,” commented Rakesh Agarwal, member of the Panchkula Vikas Manch.
A senior official from TOI noted that the plan has been paused due to various factors, but they are considering a new strategy moving forward.
The land involved belongs to HSVP and the MC, whose officials have struggled to reclaim this valuable property. Approximately 1,000 slums occupy about 8 acres of land, of which 4 acres are under encroachment. This colony is situated near housing societies, the Panchkula police commissioner’s office, the National Institute of Ayurveda, and the temple.
In addition to this colony, the future of two other significant illegal colonies—Indira Colony and Rajiv Colony—located in Sector 17 remains uncertain. Residents here continue to live in deplorable conditions throughout various parts of the city.
Many slums are burdened by a filthy drain overflowing with stagnant waste. Pigs, cattle, and dogs roam freely near the area. Residents endure stagnant water, garbage, inadequate amenities, open defecation, and pervasive foul odors.
Nearby residents also face challenges due to the filthy surroundings, yet authorities have shown little urgency in addressing the problem.
