HC imposes interim ban on new construction in Kharar amid delay in master plan notification
PTC Web Desk: In a significant ruling, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has imposed an interim ban on any new construction activities in Kharar, Punjab, citing concerns over the prolonged delay in finalising and notifying the city’s master plan. The court’s directive, issued in the case of Omega Infra Estate Pvt Ltd vs Rahul Tiwari and others, suspends all construction work in Kharar until May 27, pending further orders.
The Punjab and Haryana High Court expressed serious apprehension over rampant unregulated construction taking place due to the absence of an updated and notified master plan for Kharar. According to the Bench, the delay has resulted in chaotic and unplanned urban development, which threatens the orderly growth of the area.
The original master plan for Kharar was formulated in 2010, with its validity extending until 2020. While a new master plan was drafted in 2020, it has not yet been officially notified or implemented. Despite the passage of five years, the Punjab Government has failed to publicise the updated plan, creating regulatory ambiguities for builders and developers.
The High Court’s stringent interim order comes after a builder company filed a petition demanding the expeditious implementation of the new master plan. The court had earlier directed the Punjab Government to take action within eight weeks to notify the plan. However, no concrete progress has been reported, prompting the court to issue the current stay on all new construction in Kharar until the plan is formally notified.
The state government has been asked to provide a detailed response on the delay and the steps being taken to address the matter. Meanwhile, the court’s decision means that any new construction proposals in Kharar will be on hold until the master plan is duly notified, ensuring compliance with urban planning regulations.
- PTC NEWS
