Why is Mohali's Sector 97 urban forest project delayed?

The project is delayed because GMADA has failed to acquire the full 120 acres of land required, currently possessing only 28 acres.

What was the original plan for the Sector 97 urban forest?

The plan included dense plantations, biodiversity zones, and recreational facilities to serve as an ecological buffer for urbanizing areas.

What environmental issues is Mohali currently facing?

Mohali is under judicial scrutiny for alleged tree felling for projects and proposals to cut trees for infrastructure development.

Home / Environment / 17-Year Wait for Mohali Forest: Green Promises Unfulfilled

17-Year Wait for Mohali Forest: Green Promises Unfulfilled

24 Apr

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Summary

Urban forest plan in Sector 97 stalled for 17 years.
GMADA acquired only 28 of 120 acres for the project.
Court scrutiny highlights Mohali's environmental concerns.

17-Year Wait for Mohali Forest: Green Promises Unfulfilled

A 17-year-old plan to establish a significant urban forest in Sector 97, Mohali, has yet to materialize, with the Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA) struggling with land acquisition. The master plan from 2009 designated 120 acres for this green space, but GMADA currently possesses only 28 acres. Residents express concern over the incomplete acquisition, which delays the planned dense plantations, biodiversity zones, and recreational facilities intended as an ecological buffer.

The stalled Sector 97 project unfolds as Mohali faces judicial attention regarding its environmental record. The Punjab and Haryana High Court has requested responses from GMADA concerning allegations of tree felling for residential projects and proposals to cut trees for road widening. These legal challenges underscore a broader contradiction in the city's development trajectory, especially given Punjab's low forest cover.