Slum-free tag achieved, Chandigarh Administration to now raze illegal settlements in Dhanas

With the city earning the slum-free tag after the demolition of Shahpur Colony last week, the UT Administration has now set its sights on clearing other encroachments. A demolition drive is planned for illegal settlements at the Kachi Colony, which is spread over 10 to 12 acres of agricultural and village common land in Dhanas.

A senior officer said a case related to the colony was pending in the SDM’s court, adding that the drive will be carried out once the order is pronounced.

The colony has around 800 temporary houses. Officials said eviction notices would be issued shortly after the order was passed by the SDM, adding that the Administration has identified around seven to eight farmers and land owners on whose land the colony has been built.

Notably, while the Administration has been pushing for eviction, landowners are demanding the introduction of a land pooling policy for Chandigarh akin to other states. They have expressed their willingness to hand over their land but insist on a policy that offers fair returns. The farmers argue that the land is unsuitable for cultivation and most of the structures are temporary rental sheds. They said the Administration must bring a land pooling policy before clearing the colony.

A land owner said the temporary sheds on private land are not encroachments, adding, “The demolition should not be carried out until the land is acquired properly and housing is arranged for the needy families.”

Marble market site to be cleared

The Administration, on its part, also plans to clear encroachments at the Dhanas marble market. Spread across nearly 200 acres, the site has been occupied by marble traders for the past 25 years.

The land, originally agricultural and belonging to farmers, was earmarked for acquisition by the Administration.

The process to shift the marble market to an upcoming Bulk Material Market in Sector 56 is already underway.

The Administration has already sought an environmental clearance from the Ministry of Forest, Environment and Climate Change, which is expected to come through in around two months.

After getting the clearance, bids would be invited for the allotment of sites. Traders operating other businesses would also be eligible to take part in the bidding process.