Court Upholds Chandigarh Master Plan 2031, Emphasizes Preservation of City's Heritage and Environment
In a landmark judgment, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has intervened to halt the construction of a proposed flyover at Tribune Chowk in Chandigarh, citing the Chandigarh Master Plan 2031 (CMP - 2031), which prohibits such developments due to heritage concerns. The division bench, comprising Mr. Sheel Nagu, C.J., and Sanjiv Berry, J., delivered the verdict on May 29, 2026, in the case of Jagwant Singh Bath v. Union of India.
The court's decision underscores the importance of maintaining Chandigarh's unique architectural and environmental heritage, as envisioned by its founding architect, Le Corbusier. The CMP - 2031 explicitly restricts the construction of flyovers and over-bridges throughout the city to preserve its visual cityscape and protect pedestrian accessibility.
While the judgment restricts the flyover, it permits the construction of underpasses as an alternative solution to address traffic congestion at Tribune Chowk. The court emphasized the need for the Chandigarh Administration to focus on enhancing public transportation and minimizing reliance on personal motorized vehicles to maintain the city's original design principles.
The court also issued a prohibition on the cutting of mango trees and other trees in the vicinity of Tribune Chowk, further reinforcing its commitment to environmental preservation.
This ruling is a significant step in upholding the city's master plan and ensuring that Chandigarh remains a green, pedestrian-friendly city that prioritizes public transport over personal vehicle use. The court's decision aligns with the CMP - 2031's goals of sustainable urban development and maintaining the city's heritage status.
Bottom line:-
Chandigarh Master Plan - 2031 (CMP - 2031) prohibits the construction of flyovers within the city of Chandigarh due to heritage considerations, preserving its visual cityscape and maintaining its unique planning principles.
Statutory provision(s): Article 226, Article 227 of the Constitution of India, Capital of Punjab (Development and Regulation) Act, 1952, Punjab New Capital (Periphery) Control Act, 1952.
Jagwant Singh Bath v. Union of India, (Punjab And Haryana)(DB) : Law Finder Doc id # 2909820
