Chandigarh becomes India’s first slum-free city | The Ut Administration reclaims over 520 acres of land after demolition of last remaining colony, Shahpur

The city’s slum removal campaign began in earnest over a decade ago. Among the largest settlements cleared was Kalyan Colony, where authorities reclaimed 89 acres in 2014. In the same year, Ambedkar Colony was razed, and 65 acres were reclaimed; another 65 acres were recovered from Colony No. 4 in 2022.

The drive continued this year with the demolition of encroachments from land valued at more than ₹2,500 crore. Police were deployed on Monday morning to oversee the safe eviction and demolition at Shahpur.

Other major colonies cleared in recent years include Adarsh Colony, Sector 25 Colony, and Sanjay Colony in the Industrial Area. Officials said the reclamation efforts have paved the way for new urban development and the restoration of public spaces.

Authorities indicated that two months ago, the estate department successfully vacated additional parcels of land as part of this sustained campaign.