On the table of Administrator’s Advisory Council panel: Proposal to create a signature landmark

During the meeting, the committee chairman emphasised that while Chandigarh is globally admired for its modernist architecture, green spaces, and planned city design, the city’s tourism potential has yet to be fully tapped.

He stressed that Chandigarh needs bold ideas and large-scale projects that can redefine its identity and attract international tourists. “Organising cultural festivals, carnivals, food festivals, and other public events will not only enrich the city’s cultural life but also create employment and strengthen the economy,” he said.

The proposal for a giant landmark similar to the London Eye or Singapore Flyer and a Miracle Garden modelled on Dubai’s famed floral attraction drew significant attention during the discussions. Lucky observed that such projects could give Chandigarh a unique identity, offering visitors experiences that blend modernity, nature, and culture. Alongside these ambitious plans, members of the committee highlighted the need to modernise and upgrade existing attractions like Sukhna Lake, Rock Garden, and Rose Garden to make them more appealing and visitor-friendly.

The committee also felt that Chandigarh’s cultural calendar must expand to include signature events that can draw tourists throughout the year.

Ideas floated in the meeting included a Chandigarh Arts and Crafts Carnival to showcase local artisans, a Food and Heritage Festival celebrating regional cuisines, and a Music and Performing Arts Week featuring both national and international artists. Such initiatives, it was felt, would help create a vibrant cultural atmosphere in the city, offering visitors multiple reasons to return.

Infrastructure development formed another critical part of the deliberations. The committee underscored the need for improved tourist amenities such as better parking facilities, clearly marked pedestrian zones, modern signage, open-air event spaces, and dedicated photo spots. It was also proposed that new promenades, adventure parks, and cycling trails be developed to enhance recreational opportunities and create a more holistic tourism experience.

Heritage preservation was another focus area of the meeting. Lucky remarked that while Chandigarh must preserve its modernist legacy, it must also adapt to evolving design and urban planning trends. He noted that many buildings in the city currently look monotonous, whether they are schools, hospitals, or even five-star hotels. Revising building bylaws, he said, could help infuse variety and freshness into Chandigarh’s architectural landscape without compromising its historical character.

The committee also called for greater collaboration with cultural institutions, universities, and international art councils. Such partnerships, they felt, could support artist residencies, heritage restoration projects, and academic exchanges with global art and architecture schools. These measures would allow Chandigarh to strengthen its international cultural linkages while maintaining its distinct identity.

The meeting concluded with a decision to conduct field visits to major tourist spots to assess their present condition and identify opportunities for improvement. Meanwhile, a follow-up meeting is expected to review the findings of these visits and finalise actionable proposals for early implementation.

The committee expressed confidence that with the combined efforts of government authorities, cultural experts, and local communities, Chandigarh could soon emerge as a benchmark city for tourism, culture, and heritage preservation in India.