Chandigarh, 22 January 2025: The Punjab government’s proposal to declare a 3-km eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) around Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary has sparked widespread dissent among residents of Kansal, Nada, Nayagaon, and Karoran villages.
Locals fear that approval of the notification could lead to the demolition of legally constructed homes, shops, hospitals, hotels, and religious sites, severely affecting their livelihoods and displacing over two lakh residents under Nayagaon Municipal Council in Mohali district.
Vineet Joshi, chairman of Nayagaon Ghar Bachao Manch, stated that if the notification moves forward in a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, countless families from the lower-middle-class and poor sections will face immense hardship. “Buildings constructed lawfully may also be at risk of demolition,” he warned.
The proposal has already drawn criticism for bypassing public input. The Supreme Court had ordered the government on November 20, 2024, to address objections raised by Nayagaon residents and take a lawful decision on the ESZ proposal.
Following the directive, a public hearing was held on December 4 at Punjab Bhawan in Chandigarh, during which more than 100 objections were submitted by residents, councillors, and organisations. Key concerns included recommendations to reduce the ESZ to 100 meters or less, instead of the proposed 3 km.
Despite these objections, residents claim the state forest department disregarded public concerns and suggestions by resubmitting the old proposal without consulting officials from the housing, urban development, and local government departments.
“The government assured the court it would revise the proposal and submit it after incorporating feedback, but instead, it moved forward with the original plan,” said a Nayagaon resident.
The government’s affidavit to the Supreme Court, filed on December 11, promised a revised ESZ proposal within three months.
Residents now accuse the state of reneging on this commitment and violating court-mandated processes. The Supreme Court had made it clear that outcomes of the public hearing and other recommendations must guide any further decisions.
With the cabinet’s decision pending, Joshi and local residents continue to advocate for reconsideration of the proposal to prevent widespread displacement and legal challenges.
