🏗️ What’s Happening
- After nearly a decade without major projects, the CHB has officially initiated planning for two major housing schemes:
- The Sector 53 self-financing scheme, which is close to launch, offering around 372 flats across HIG, MIG, and EWS categories.
- A new residential development in Sector 54, spread over approximately 32 acres, with the potential to accommodate ~1,700 flats. Planning is expected to conclude within 4–6 months.
📍 Sector 54 Project Details
- Land Allocation: The UT has allocated approx. 32 acres, though CHB currently holds 14 acres; the remaining 18 acres are pending transfer from the Estate Office and Engineering Department.
- Scale & Planning Timeline: Initial estimates project 1,700 flats. Conceptual planning is to be completed within four to six months.
🔄 Context: Sector 53 Scheme Relaunch
- This is CHB’s first major housing initiative since 2016, marking the end of a long lull.
- The scheme had been stuck due to poor initial demand and procurement delays, but has recently gained traction:
- A demand survey in early 2025 drew 7,468 applications for 372 flats.
- UT Administrator approved the revival with updated prices effective April 1, 2025.
🏙️ Why This Matters
- Addressing Urban Demand: With strong applicant interest and a nearly decade-long gap since the last CHB project, these initiatives respond to a real housing shortage in Chandigarh.
- Financial Turnaround: CHB has been operating at a deficit in recent years. Launching new schemes could help stabilize its finances.
- Strategic Land Use: Sector 54 adds crucial supply across varying apartment sizes, paving the way for more equitable urban growth.
✅ Summary Table
| Sector | Land Allocated | Flats Planned | Timeline for Planning |
|---|---|---|---|
| 53 | ~9 acres | 372 flats | Imminent launch (tenders underway) |
| 54 | ~32 acres | ~1,700 flats | Concept planning in 4–6 months |
- Sector 54 is still in early stages, focusing on conceptual details.
Next Steps & What to Watch
- CHB will finalize plans, update pricing, and issue official brochures and tender notices.
- Application process will be relaunched (for Sector 53) and introduced for Sector 54 later.
- Land transfer completion for the remaining 18 acres is crucial for Sector 54’s development.
