Civic body survey identifies 335 illegal constructions in Ludhiana

A recent survey conducted by the Municipal Corporation (MC) has revealed the existence of 335 illegal constructions, including under-construction buildings, across the city. The findings have raised serious concerns about unchecked urban development and the effectiveness of enforcement mechanism in place.

The zone-wise breakdown of illegal constructions reveals significant disparities. Zone A recorded 86 illegal constructions, Zone B had 36, Zone C reported the highest with 164 and Zone D accounted for 49. It highlights Zone C as the most affected area among the zones.

Violations are concentrated in areas such as Sukhdev Nagar, Chand Cinema Road, Kailash Nagar and other densely populated localities, where rapid construction has often bypassed regulatory approvals.

A Municipal Corporation official said a list of unauthorised buildings had already been prepared and strict action would be taken against those violating regulations. A thorough inspection would be carried out by designated duty officers, who will examine all constructions on-site. Those who have not deposited the required fees or continue with illegal construction will be charged compounding fees along with other applicable penalties.

Despite repeated drives against the illegal buildings, questions remain about the role of officials in allowing such projects to proceed unchecked. Civic activists argue that corruption and negligence have contributed to the mushrooming of unauthorised structures, undermining planned urban development.

Illegal constructions not only strain civic infrastructure but also pose safety risks to residents. With Ludhiana’s rapid urban expansion, experts warn that failure to enforce building regulations could lead to long-term challenges in housing, traffic management, and public safety.

The areas in four zones

Zone C has emerged as a hotspot where residential plots are being converted for commercial use in areas such as Chandigarh Road, Tibba Road, Tajpur Road, Jamalpur, Subhash Nagar, Dhandari Khurd, Jeevan Nagar Road, Lohara and Shimlapuri.

In Zone A, the main area where 86 illegal constructions have been found include Lakkar Bazaar, Karimpura Bazaar, Karabara, Basti Chowk, Kakowal Road, Kali Sadak, Nehru Vihar, Manna Singh Nagar, Chand Cinema road, among others.

In Zone D, there are 49 illegal constructions which are mainly concentrated in Kochar Market, Sarabha Nagar, Model Town, Canal Road, Ferozepur Road, etc.

In Zone B, illegal buildings are located in Mali Ganj, Sarafan Bazaar, Than Singh Chowk, Kashmir Nagar, Shivaji Nagar, etc.