Punjab farmers’ consent a must in Aerotropolis Mohali land acquisition: Punjab Minister Mundian

Punjab’s Housing and Urban Development Minister Hardeep Singh Mundian on Tuesday said that land acquisition for the development of Aerotropolis Blocks E, F, G, H, I, and J would be undertaken only with the consent of farmers. He emphasised that no decision concerning farmers would be taken without their approval.

Mundian, along with Mohali MLA Kulwant Singh, facilitated the end of an ongoing hunger strike by farmers and landowners affected by the Aerotropolis project in Mohali.

Before concluding the protest, the minister formally read out and handed over a written document detailing the accepted demands. The protest, which had been continuing for several days outside the GMADA office, ended after the government accepted key demands and offered assurances. The strike was formally called off after farmer leaders were offered juice, symbolising its conclusion.

Senior officials, including GMADA Chief Administrator Sakshi Sawhny and Land Acquisition Officer Rohit Jindal, were also present on the occasion.

The minister acknowledged the role of MLA Kulwant Singh in bringing the concerns of affected farmers to the Chief Minister’s attention, which led to prompt directions to the concerned departments and paved the way for the acceptance of their demands.

Key decisions include:

Validity of Sahuliyat Certificate: The validity period has been increased from two years to four years, effective from the date of award payment or issuance of the Letter of Intent (LoI).

The time limit for applying for tubewell connections has also been extended to four years, in line with the certificate’s validity. Installation will be ensured within two months on a priority basis.

All plots, including those in preferential locations, will now be included in the draw of lots to address farmers’ concerns.

In view of FIR No. 16 and High Court directions on the valuation of orchards and structures, pending compensation will be deposited in the reference court. Development work will be expedited, and compensation for properties outside the FIR ambit will be released promptly.

All development works will be completed within three years from the date of award and possession of land.

Enhanced land pooling benefits:

Mixed-use/General Category: 1000 sq. yards residential per acre (unchanged) and commercial area increased from 200 to 210 sq. yards per acre (applicable to one acre and above).

Residential (1 acre and above): Increased from 1600 to 1630 sq. yards per acre.

Oustee benefits:

All eligible farmers will be issued oustee certificates and allotted plots at scheme rates based on landholding:

0.5 acre: 200 sq. yards

0.5 to 2.5 acres: 300 sq. yards

Above 2.5 acres: 500 sq. yards

Conveyance deed charges will be waived for original landowners.

Essential village infrastructure such as government and panchayat schools, parks, and dispensaries will be excluded from acquisition. Sewerage, water supply, and stormwater systems will be integrated with GMADA infrastructure, and necessary development works, including roads, will be undertaken. GMADA will provide funds if any department faces financial constraints.