The Chandigarh Tribune Flyover, a key infrastructure project in the city, has encountered a fresh legal hurdle. A new petition has been filed in the Punjab and Haryana High Court, alleging irregularities in its construction and violations of environmental norms. The petition claims that the flyover was built without proper approvals and has caused significant ecological damage to the surrounding area.
Petition Details
The petitioner, a local resident, has argued that the flyover's construction violated the terms of the environmental clearance granted by the relevant authorities. Specifically, the petition highlights the felling of numerous trees and the disruption of the natural drainage system. It also questions the structural safety of the flyover, citing concerns about the quality of materials used.
Legal Proceedings
The High Court has taken cognizance of the petition and issued notices to the Chandigarh Administration, the Municipal Corporation, and the construction company. The court has sought their responses within four weeks. The next hearing is scheduled for next month, where the respondents are expected to present their case.
Background
The Tribune Flyover, which connects the busy Tribune Chowk to the Industrial Area, was inaugurated in 2022 after years of delays. It was intended to ease traffic congestion in the area. However, from the outset, the project faced criticism from environmental activists and local residents who raised concerns about its impact on the green cover and the local ecosystem.
Reactions
Environmental groups have welcomed the legal challenge, stating that it highlights the need for stricter enforcement of environmental laws. Meanwhile, the Chandigarh Administration has defended the project, asserting that all necessary clearances were obtained and that the flyover meets all safety standards.
This is not the first time the flyover has faced legal scrutiny. Earlier, a separate petition had challenged the project's environmental clearance, but the court had dismissed it after the administration submitted compliance reports. The new petition, however, brings fresh allegations that could potentially stall the project's operations.
As the legal battle unfolds, the future of the Tribune Flyover remains uncertain. The court's decision could set a precedent for infrastructure projects in the city, balancing development needs with environmental conservation.
