India: Chandigarh Marble Market Relocation to Sector 56 Gains Pace

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The Chandigarh administration is accelerating the relocation of the city’s Marble Market from Dhanas to the newly developed Bulk Material Market in Sector 56-West. The move aims to address longstanding concerns over unauthorized operations and to ensure compliance with environmental and urban regulations. Authorities describe the project as a key step in modernizing the city’s commercial infrastructure while encouraging traders to shift toward self-regulated and legally compliant business practices.

The Bulk Material Market spans 44 acres and is being developed at an estimated cost of 20 crore rupees. It will house 191 one-kanal plots and 48 booths, each allowing construction of a basement and three floors. Initially designed for marble traders, the project has expanded to include furniture sellers displaced from the recently demolished markets in Sectors 53 and 54. Officials note that reclaiming nearly 12 acres of government land reflects an effort to restore lawful use of public property, ensuring private businesses operate responsibly without occupying community resources indefinitely.

To facilitate the relocation, the administration has hired consultants to prepare a detailed project report and secure the required environmental and eco-sensitive clearances. Because the proposed built-up area exceeds 20,000 square meters, obtaining environmental clearance is mandatory. The administration also plans to remove 339 trees, including 34 that are dried-up, before site allotments begin. Deputy Commissioner Nishant Kumar Yadav confirmed that approvals are expected within two months, with an auction of plots scheduled for the end of October.

The development includes the construction of key infrastructure such as internal roads, water supply, sewer and stormwater drainage systems, a power sub-station, street lighting, and green spaces. The engineering department has set a September 30 deadline to complete ongoing construction activities to ensure the site is ready for traders and customers.

Officials note that the relocation is part of Chandigarh’s broader urban planning efforts aimed at modernizing markets, enforcing legal compliance, and promoting organized trade. By relocating traders to a legally approved market, authorities argue they are creating fair competition where businesses thrive through efficiency and responsibility rather than informal occupation.

Traders who have operated for decades in Dhanas have expressed cautious optimism about the move, citing improved facilities and infrastructure at Sector 56 as potential benefits. However, some remain concerned about the cost of relocation and adjustments needed to adapt to the new environment. Support for businesses is being framed as transitional guidance rather than long-term dependence, with officials stressing that traders must ultimately adapt and compete in a regulated marketplace.

Environmental oversight remains a priority throughout the project. Officials emphasize careful planning to mitigate impacts from tree removal and construction activities, while ensuring that green areas and public amenities are integrated into the design of the new market.

The Sector 56 relocation is expected to serve as a model for future urban planning projects in Chandigarh, demonstrating the administration’s commitment to structured development, environmental responsibility, and the modernization of commercial hubs. Observers note that the initiative highlights how transparent rules and limited state intervention in daily operations can support sustainable business growth.

With construction progressing rapidly and approvals underway, the administration aims to complete the transition by late 2025, creating a modern, organized, and compliant market space that accommodates both marble and furniture traders while enhancing the city’s overall commercial landscape.