Chandigarh, Sept 30, 2025 – In a historic development, Chandigarh has officially become India’s first slum-free city after the administration demolished Shahpur Colony in Sector-38, the last remaining slum settlement in the Union Territory.
The demolition drive, carried out on September 30, cleared around 300 hutments spread over 4.5 acres of prime government land valued at approximately ₹250 crore. With this move, the Chandigarh Administration has reclaimed more than 520 acres of land worth over ₹21,000 crore, previously occupied by slum settlements across the city.
Over the past decade, the UT has systematically removed 18 slum colonies, including Janta Colony in Sector-25, Sanjay Colony in Industrial Area, and Adarsh Colony in Sector-54.
Rehabilitation for Displaced Families
Authorities confirmed that all eligible families from Shahpur Colony have been allotted EWS flats under the Chandigarh Small Flats Scheme, 2006. Relocation sites include Dhanas, Mauli Jagran, Industrial Area Phase-I, Ram Darbar, and Sector-49.
An official spokesperson said, “This achievement reflects Chandigarh’s commitment to urban planning and providing dignified housing solutions to the underprivileged.”
Concerns Raised
However, the move has also drawn criticism from activists and residents who allege that many families were left out of the eligibility list, raising concerns about displacement, loss of livelihoods, and inadequate rehabilitation measures.
Urban planners have welcomed the slum-free status but stressed the need to ensure sustainable housing policies to prevent fresh encroachments and safeguard the rights of low-income groups.
Landmark Achievement
With the demolition of Shahpur Colony, Chandigarh has set a benchmark in urban management, balancing infrastructure development with the challenge of rehabilitating displaced citizens. The city is now being hailed as a model for other metropolitan areas struggling with slum proliferation.
