Waiting for the development in Sector 90, Mohali is about to be over as the Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA) has resolved a significant hurdle after several years of standing still on the initiative.
The main problem faced was determining the issue regarding the land that had been acquired for development purposes in 2015 was actually under the Punjab Land Preservation Act (PLPA), a law that stops any transformation on soils which are likely to undergo erosion.
Recognizing the need for a solution, GMADA has approached the Punjab Forest Department for permission to divert the land use. Granting this permission would allow them to proceed with development plans.
A Long-Awaited Project
The development of Sector 90 has been on hold for nearly a decade. In 2015, GMADA acquired 229 acres near Lakhnaur village under the land pooling scheme. This scheme involves offering landowners developed plots in exchange for their land.
However, it wasn’t until six years later that GMADA discovered the PLPA restriction on a portion of the acquired land. This unexpected hurdle significantly delayed the project, leaving over 700 allottees who received letters of intent (LoI) for plots in limbo.
Hope for the Future
Despite the delays, there’s renewed optimism for Sector 90’s development. GMADA officials are hopeful of starting development within the next two months, pending approval from the forest department.
“We have already prepared layout plans, which will be sent to the planning and development department for final approval,” stated a senior GMADA officer. “We are hopeful of starting development in the next two months.”
Addressing the PLPA Issue
GMADA acknowledges that they were unaware of the PLPA restriction when acquiring the land. They have attributed this oversight to a lack of information in revenue department records.
The forest department’s approval process for land use diversion is underway. Once approved, GMADA can move forward with their development plans.
What to Expect in Sector 90
The initial development plan for Sector 90 involves utilizing 144 acres of land. This region will have land set aside for institutions as well as a mixture of commercial and residential buildings.
Plots for residential use will vary in size from 100 to 500 square yards to accommodate different requirements. Parks will occupy a larger area than originally planned to compensate for the land under PLPA restrictions.
With the land use diversion process initiated, Sector 90’s development appears to be back on track. This news brings hope to the allottees who have been patiently waiting for their plots and paves the way for a new residential and commercial hub in Mohali.
