Chandigarh, 23 February 2025 — Demolition of parts of Chandigarh’s iconic Rock Garden for a road-widening project near the High Court has triggered widespread criticism from locals and heritage conservationists.
The move, aimed at creating additional parking space, has already resulted in the destruction of a section of the garden’s wall, raising concerns over the fate of Nek Chand’s artistic masterpiece.
Anuj Saini, son of Rock Garden creator Nek Chand, expressed deep concern over the damage to his father’s legacy.
Senior lawyer Manmohan Lal Sarin, known as Mac Sarin, condemned the UT administration’s decision, writing on X, “So sorry, Nek Chand Saini, your precious creation is being demolished in parts to make way for a road and parking of polluting vehicles… We have let you down, that too in your birth centenary year.”
As images of bulldozers tearing down the garden’s structures circulated on social media, conservationists warned that such actions could set a dangerous precedent for Chandigarh’s heritage sites. Members of the Chandigarh Heritage Conservation Committee (CHCC) have also raised objections.
In protest, concerned citizens have called for a demonstration at 3 pm on Sunday near the High Court parking side of the Rock Garden. The growing opposition has intensified pressure on authorities to reconsider the project and protect one of Chandigarh’s most treasured landmarks.
