‘Razing wall not a solution, but beginning of the end’

Residents staged a protest at the Rock Garden against the UT Administration’s move to dismantle a wall of the world-famous tourist spot.

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A former Chief Justice of Allahabad High Court, Justice SS Sodhi, who took part in the protest, condemned the demolition. “Razing the Rock Garden’s wall is not a solution but the beginning of an end. The city needs sustainable traffic solutions — shuttle services, improved public transport and multi-level parking lots — rather than harming its trees and heritage. Compared to the Delhi High Court and the Supreme Court, Chandigarh’s parking situation is better. Managing the cause list more efficiently can reduce unnecessary crowding. On an average, around 1,000 cases are listed in the High Court each day and only around 100 are actually heard. A large number of people arrive at the court just to see their case in the cause list, which should be properly adjusted.”

The demolition comes in the birth centenary year of Nek Chand, making it even more painful for residents. Eminent architect and urbanist Noor Dasmesh Singh remarked, “Nek Chand’s contribution to Chandigarh must be reiterated and preserved. In 1989, a symbolic ‘Chipko movement’ tried to resist a similar demolition. Yet, the administration has once again chosen destruction over preservation. The loss of old trees in this process is unpardonable. Worse, this operation seems to have been conducted clandestinely.”

Yojna Rawat, general secretary of the MN Sharma Architectural Society, emphasised that alternative solutions, like multi-level parking lots, should be explored instead of destroying this landmark.

Rustam Singh, a third-generation city resident, also expressed his disappointment over the administration’s action.

Senior social activist RK Garg said, “The High Court is heavy on heritage and the administration is a silent spectator only as it has no options but to follow orders.”

Environmentalists warn that destroying heritage and green spaces in the name of urbanisation is a short-sighted approach. Samita Kaur, an environmental activist, stated, “Chandigarh was planned with tree-lined avenues designed by MS Randhawa, a botanist who worked with Le Corbusier. Now, these trees are being mowed down. The rising AQI levels in the city are a direct consequence of such thoughtless actions.”

The protesters called for a stronger action, urging citizens to join a signature campaign. Those interested can contact environmentalist Samita Kaur at 98158 00164.