Chd concert centre project in Sarangpur hits green hurdle

TNN Chandigarh: The Chandigarh administration's ambitious plan to develop a large concert centre in Sarangpur has run into environmental clearance issues. The project is stalled over pending permission to remove nearly 200 trees and other vegetation at the proposed site.The 25-acre venue, envisioned as a major events hub, cannot proceed with infrastructure development until clearance for tree felling is granted. Officials in the tourism department confirmed that approval is still awaited.The delay comes despite chief secretary H Rajesh Prasad's instructions to departments to expedite work so that the venue could begin hosting large-scale events with a capacity of up to 35,000 people.According to the timeline prepared by the tourism department, the project was slated for completion in the next two months. However, the pending environmental clearance is likely to push deadlines.The administration has appointed a consultant for development of the project, which is aimed at creating state-of-the-art infrastructure for national and international events, concerts, exhibitions and cultural exchanges.The proposed facility will include space for over 35,000 attendees, parking for around 6,000 vehicles, VIP lounges and expansive open areas. The move is intended to help Chandigarh retain major events that are currently shifted to neighbouring cities due to space and traffic constraints.Separate proposals for a multi-level parking facility and a permanent stage at the site are under consideration, with funding modalities yet to be finalised.The push for a dedicated large-scale venue gained momentum after severe traffic congestion during a high-profile music concert in Sector 34 in Dec 2024. Authorities initially explored the Sector 25 Rally Ground as an alternative, but Sarangpur — located on the city's periphery outside the sectoral grid — has now emerged as the preferred site.The Sarangpur project is part of a broader plan to upgrade the city's event infrastructure. Other initiatives include a proposed convention centre in Sector 17 and an exhibition centre in Sector 31, aimed at positioning Chandigarh as a key destination for major events.MSID:: 130832520 413 |
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