Ludhiana's Sarabha Nagar struggles between residential and commercial identity

The Ludhiana municipal corporation has reversed its decision to designate a road in Sarabha Nagar as commercial after facing backlash from residents who deemed the proposal as illegal, emphasizing that the area was meant to be purely residential in nature. Numerous complaints about unauthorized commercial activities on the road prompted local bodies department officials to step up and take action. An MLA had previously endorsed the conversion of the Sarabha Nagar road to a commercial road, influenced by discussions with owners of commercial properties seeking his support. However, residents countered, asserting that Sarabha Nagar is a dedicated residential area with an established market for shops and commercial endeavors. They voiced concerns about potential parking issues and traffic congestion resulting from introducing commercial activities into residential zones. In response to the criticism, senior municipal corporation officials announced plans to issue notices to owners of illegal commercial units in the area. The local bodies department has directed the issuance of orders and is awaiting approval from the MC commissioner to proceed with serving notices. Additionally, if commercial establishments do not comply, the officials indicated intentions to disconnect power supplies by involving the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL). Sarabha Nagar, developed by the Ludhiana Improvement Trust (LIT) as a residential scheme, was handed over to the municipal corporation for maintenance. LIT officials expressed concern over the deviation from the original plan, urging the MC to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) before approving building plans in their designated scheme areas. The residents' strong opposition and the involvement of the LIT underscore the community's commitment to preserving the residential character of Sarabha Nagar. The municipal corporation's change in stance on the commercial designation reflects a responsiveness to public sentiment and a willingness to look into the various aspects of the situation. As the notices are prepared and the PSPCL is brought into the equation, the authorities are poised to address the unauthorized commercial activities and maintain the integrity of Sarabha Nagar as a residential locality.

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Ludhiana's Sarabha Nagar struggles between residential and commercial identity

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