Chandigarh, January 20, 2026:The 26th meeting of the Chandigarh Heritage Conservation Committee (CHCC) was held today under the chairmanship of Sh. H. Rajesh Prasad, Chief Secretary, U.T. Chandigarh.
Sh. Rajiv Kumar Mehta, Chief Architect-cum-Member Convener briefed the Committee on the genesis of the Holistic Development Plan, the efforts undertaken so far, and the legal adjudications that led to convening the meeting.
The Committee was apprised about the Holistic Development Plan of the Punjab and Haryana High Court Complex, including directions issued by the Hon’ble Punjab and Haryana High Court from time to time. It was informed that, in compliance with the Court’s orders, a consultant has been engaged and conceptual design proposals have been prepared.
The consultant, M/s Design Associates, Noida, made a presentation on the conceptual proposal, highlighting heritage-sensitive planning, protection of the Outstanding Universal Value (OUV), adherence to ICOMOS guidelines, and integration of open spaces and infrastructure.
During the discussions, members emphasized the need to preserve the sanctity of the Capitol Complex, ensure Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA), obtain environmental clearances and strictly comply with UNESCO norms.
The Chairperson appreciated the views expressed by the members and informed that the proposal shall be forwarded to the Foundation Le Corbusier, Paris, through the Government of India, by 20.01.2026, in compliance with the orders of the Hon’ble High Court.
It was reiterated that all statutory approvals, heritage clearances and environmental permissions shall be obtained prior to execution of the project.
The meeting was attended by Sh. Mandip Singh Brar, Home Secretary-cum-Secretary Culture U.T. Chandigarh; Sh. Diprava Lakra, Finance Secretary; Sh. Amit Kumar, Commissioner, Municipal Corporation Chandigarh; Sh. Nishant Kumar Yadav, Deputy Commissioner-cum-Estate Officer, U.T. Chandigarh; Sh. Sorab Arora, Director Cultural Affairs, U.T. Chandigarh; Sh. C.B. Ojha, Chief Engineer, U.T. Chandigarh; Sh. M.L. Sarin, Advocate; Smt. Sumit Kaur, Chief Architect (Retd.); Dr. I.C. Syal, Practicing Structural Engineer; Sh. Dilmeet Grewal, Architect; Sh. M.K. Joshi and Sh. M.C. Sharma, Archaeological Survey of India, Chandigarh Circle; Principal, Chandigarh College of Architecture, Chandigarh; and the Senior Standing Counsel, U.T. Chandigarh.