LUDHIANA: The Punjab government’s decision to significantly revamp its urban planning laws—permitting the construction of stilt-plus-four-floor buildings to curb sprawling development and enhance housing availability—has elicited varied responses, though industry leaders generally express approval for the increased flexibility.
The Chief Minister, Bhagwant Mann, introduced the Punjab Unified Building Rules 2025, a reform that developers view as a vital advancement towards vertical development and more effective land utilization. These revisions not only elevate the maximum height allowance for buildings within municipal boundaries but also facilitate the sale of individual floors, essentially transforming the urban landscape.
Key Changes
According to the new regulations, plots of at least 250 square yards in newly established colonies or sectors with roads spanning 40 feet or more can now support stilt-plus-four-storey (S+4) buildings, raising the allowable height to 21 meters. In older, denser areas, the rules will permit stilt-plus-three floors, increasing the height limit from the past 11 meters to 13 meters. The stilt provision is aimed at providing essential on-site parking to manage the growing number of vehicles, alleviating street congestion.
Reactions
The Ludhiana Builders Association has supported this initiative, stating it will mitigate unplanned expansion and stimulate the real estate sector. “Permitting stilt plus four floors and the sale of independent floors will significantly boost our market,” said Rajan Patial, the association’s general secretary. He mentioned that while land prices may rise, housing could become more affordable, as independent floors typically cost less than entire homes.
Developer Rohit Puniani praised the decision and urged for the new height regulations to be applied throughout Punjab. Builder Gagandeep observed that vertical construction might help preserve agricultural land on the city’s periphery.
Expert Caution
However, urban planners and specialists warn that this policy could overwhelm existing civic infrastructure without necessary upgrades. Kanav Kholsa, a prominent architect from Ludhiana, cautioned that uniform application of the rules could pose significant challenges. “In areas like Sarabha Nagar, where plots are larger and roads wider, this measure will be effective,” Kholsa stated. “In densely populated neighborhoods like BRS Nagar and Agar Nagar, we will need parallel improvements in power supply, sewer systems, and road infrastructure. More floors mean more families, which translates to increased demand on civic amenities.”
Urban planners emphasized the necessity of concurrently enhancing essential systems—like sewage, electricity, roads, and parking management—to accommodate the anticipated rise in population density and prevent civic chaos. Architect Sanjay Goel also commended the self-certification provision for architects but underscored the importance of strict adherence to construction laws to maintain the cities’ livability and organization.
