The Chandigarh administration is fast-tracking a comprehensive 'one-time relief' policy aimed at regularising internal modifications for thousands of residents. With 90% of the city's 62,000 CHB dwellings currently facing building violations, the proposed settlement represents a critical lifeline for homeowners who have lived under the shadow of enforcement for years.
A Path to Regularisation
The administration is pivoting toward a pragmatic solution that balances urban planning with the needs of the people. The heart of the new proposal focuses on granting relief for internal changes and boundary wall adjustments that do not compromise public land.
'The administration is actively deliberating on how to regularise modifications made within the footprint of the homes, such as internal alterations and veranda extensions. The move aims at giving residents a clean slate, turning thousands of illegal structures into legal, compliant homes. Officials are currently analysing successful models from other states to ensure the Chandigarh policy is both robust and resident-friendly,' said a senior UT official.
No Encroachment on Public Land
Despite ongoing deliberations for a 'one-time relief' policy, the administration has sent a clear and urgent warning to residents: government land is non-negotiable. A senior official confirmed that any structure built on public land must be dismantled immediately. The CHB has already instructed thousands of residents to begin voluntary demolition or face forced removal by authorities.
'Under no circumstances will construction undertaken on government land be regularised,' the administration clarified in a recent statement. Furthermore, those who have added floors exceeding permissible safety and structural limits have been told they are ineligible for any future relief.
'The goal is a permanent resolution. By focusing on a one-time settlement for internal alterations, we can provide residents the peace of mind they've sought for 20 years while maintaining the structural integrity of our colonies,' a senior UT official said.
