AI Generated Summary
- In one of the most ambitious urban expansion initiatives in recent Punjab history, the state government has initiated the compulsory acquisition of 11,103 acres of land across Greater Mohali and New Chandigarh.
- The plan, accessed exclusively by The Tribune, outlines the creation of seven new townships, seven new sectors, three additional pockets of Aerotropolis near the Chandigarh International Airport, and a vibrant new commercial city centre in Sector 87, Mohali—modeled after Chandigarh’s iconic Sector 17.
- This infra push comes at a time when Mohali is being aggressively pitched as a Tier-I IT hub and investment destination.
In one of the most ambitious urban expansion initiatives in recent Punjab history, the state government has initiated the compulsory acquisition of 11,103 acres of land across Greater Mohali and New Chandigarh. This massive drive aims to fuel infrastructure development, planned urbanization, and economic growth in the tricity region. The plan, accessed exclusively by The Tribune, outlines the creation of seven new townships, seven new sectors, three additional pockets of Aerotropolis near the Chandigarh International Airport, and a vibrant new commercial city centre in Sector 87, Mohali—modeled after Chandigarh’s iconic Sector 17.
The project breakdown reflects a comprehensive vision for integrated development. It includes sprawling residential townships with low and high-density zones, eco-friendly habitats, industrial parks, and extensive road networks spanning over 1,240 acres. These roads will crisscross Mohali and New Chandigarh, improving connectivity and easing traffic congestion in line with the region’s master plan. The acquisition will also support the expansion of the Aerotropolis, positioning Mohali as a key aviation-linked economic hub with commercial, institutional, and mixed-use zones.
All land acquisition is being carried out under the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013. This ensures landowners receive fair market-linked compensation, rehabilitation packages, and social impact assessments. Notifications for various components have already been issued, with awards for specific portions—like a 309-acre residential township in New Chandigarh—scheduled for announcement soon. The process involves multiple villages in the Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA) jurisdiction.
This infra push comes at a time when Mohali is being aggressively pitched as a Tier-I IT hub and investment destination. Recent investor summits have highlighted incentives for global capability centres, while private players like Homeland Group have shown confidence by acquiring land parcels worth over ₹1,000 crore for premium developments. The new sectors and townships are expected to generate thousands of jobs in real estate, IT, aviation logistics, and services, while curbing unplanned urban sprawl.
For Punjab, the move signals a shift towards structured growth in its most dynamic urban corridor. By developing modern townships, enhanced road infrastructure, and airport-centric commercial zones, the government aims to transform Greater Mohali into a self-sustaining economic engine that complements Chandigarh while boosting the state’s overall attractiveness for investors.
Challenges remain, including timely rehabilitation and environmental safeguards, but the scale of the project underscores Punjab’s commitment to long-term urban planning. If executed efficiently, the 11,103-acre acquisition could redefine the tricity’s skyline and economy for decades.
