Industrialists in Ludhiana are up in arms against a proposal to convert a 58-acre plot in Jandiali village from an industrial zone to a residential colony. The land, designated for industrial use in 2008, is now reportedly being considered for housing projects, allegedly to benefit certain colonisers.
Background of the Dispute
The land in question belongs to the Greater Ludhiana Area Development Authority (GLADA). A public notice regarding the change of land use has already been issued, sparking strong opposition from the industrial community. The United Cycle and Parts Manufacturers Association (UCPMA) has voiced its concerns, stating that the industry is already struggling under the Mixed Land Use (MLU) category.
Industry Concerns
UCPMA vice-president Jaswinder Singh Thukral expressed dismay over the move. He highlighted that the government has not provided clarity on the MLU deadline ending in September for areas like New Janta Nagar. Residents in these areas are demanding the relocation of industries, adding to the confusion. Thukral alleged that such steps show the industry is not a priority for the AAP government, with over 60,000 industrial units still operating under MLU.
Some industrialists have accused a local influential politician of pushing for the land use change to benefit specific builders, especially with elections approaching next year. They claim the move is designed to extract maximum gains before a new government takes over.
Official Response
Vikas Hira, the newly appointed Additional Chief Administrator of GLADA, stated that he assumed office on June 16 and could not comment in detail. However, he acknowledged that a proposal for a residential colony in Jandiali village exists.
The industrialists are demanding that the government reconsider the decision and prioritize industrial development over real estate interests. They warn that converting industrial land to residential will exacerbate the challenges faced by the manufacturing sector in Ludhiana.
