Punjab Announces Major Rs 250-Crore Exhibition and Convention Centre in Mohali
In a significant development for Punjab's infrastructure and economic landscape, Industries Minister Sanjeev Arora unveiled plans on Wednesday for a state-of-the-art multipurpose exhibition and convention centre in Mohali. The ambitious project, valued at Rs 250 crore, is set to transform the region into a premier destination for large-scale events.
Strategic Location and Development Timeline
The facility will be strategically located in the heart of Mohali's IT City, spanning 14 acres in Sector 83. This prime location is in close proximity to Plaksha University and the Infosys campus, ensuring excellent connectivity and visibility. The development will be executed in two distinct phases to ensure timely completion and operational efficiency.
The first phase is scheduled for completion by December 31 of this year, with the final phase expected to be finished approximately one year later. This phased approach allows for gradual implementation while minimizing disruptions to the surrounding area.
Public-Private Partnership Model
The project is being developed under a robust public-private partnership (PPP) model, with Exhicon Events Media Solutions Ltd as the private partner. Exhicon will operate the facility under a 15-year concession period, bringing specialized expertise in event management and venue operations to ensure world-class service delivery.
Minister Arora emphasized that this collaboration leverages the strengths of both sectors, combining government support with private sector efficiency to create a sustainable and profitable venture.
World-Class Infrastructure and Facilities
The convention centre is designed to host large-scale national and international events with cutting-edge infrastructure. Key features include:
- Two major column-free exhibition halls of approximately 40,000 sq ft and 15,000 sq ft
- Conference and breakout rooms for smaller meetings and sessions
- Retail and food and beverage zones spread over around 15,000 sq ft
- Parking infrastructure for at least 1,000 vehicles
- World-class landscaped public spaces and open event areas
This comprehensive facility ensures that all aspects of event hosting are covered, from logistics to attendee comfort.
Multi-Functional Venue Capabilities
The centre is engineered to be a flexible, multi-functional venue capable of accommodating a wide range of events. According to Minister Arora, the facility will support:
- Conferences and summits with 5,000 to 10,000 delegates
- Meet and greet areas of around 20,000 sq ft for 2,000 people
- Trade fairs and exhibitions with 200 to 500 booths
- Corporate events with 1,000 to 10,000 attendees
- Cultural and entertainment programmes for 1,000 to 10,000 people
- Social events for up to 15,000 people
This versatility makes it an ideal choice for diverse event organizers, from corporate entities to cultural institutions.
Economic Impact and Employment Generation
One of the most significant aspects of this project is its expected economic impact. The minister projected that the centre will generate between 15,000 and 25,000 employment opportunities within the first five years of operation. These jobs will span various sectors, including hospitality, event management, retail, and security.
Furthermore, the facility is poised to strengthen Punjab's position as a leading MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) destination. By attracting national and international events, it will boost tourism, hospitality, and allied sectors, creating a multiplier effect throughout the regional economy.
The Rs 250-crore investment in Mohali's exhibition and convention centre represents a strategic move to enhance Punjab's infrastructure and economic competitiveness. With its world-class facilities, strategic location, and significant employment potential, this project is set to become a landmark development in the region's growth story.
