Discontent with the Haryana government’s recently implemented stilt-plus-four floor construction policy is boiling over in Panchkula. The Panchkula Citizens’ Welfare Association (PCWA) is gearing up for a legal battle, announcing plans to file a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the Punjab and Haryana High Court. This move marks a significant escalation in the ongoing saga over building heights in the city.
The PCWA strongly opposes the policy, fearing a multitude of negative consequences. Their primary concerns revolve around the impact on infrastructure and quality of life. They anticipate a surge in population density, leading to congested streets and overburdened utilities like water supply and sanitation systems. Additionally, the association expresses aesthetic anxieties, worried that the new policy could violate zoning regulations and disrupt the architectural harmony of their neighborhoods.
This legal challenge is the latest chapter in a back-and-forth between residents and the government. The policy itself was implemented in July 2024, following a previous rollback in February 2023 after resident protests. The PCWA’s PIL signifies their continued dissatisfaction and determination to force a change in the government’s stance. The upcoming court battle will determine the future of building heights in Panchkula and the potential impact on the city’s infrastructure and overall character.
