Ludhiana Improvement Trust Misled Punjab State Human Rights Commission Over Illegal Constructions In 475-acre Scheme: Arvind Sharma

Nov1,2026 | Jagrati Lahar Bureau | Ludhiana

Arvind Sharma, Social Activist, has alleged that the Ludhiana Improvement Trust has submitted an incomplete and misleading reply to the Punjab State Human Rights Commission (PSHRC) regarding his complaint concerning rampant illegal commercial activities and unauthorised constructions in the purely residential Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar, 475-Acre Scheme, Pakhowal Road, Ludhiana.

In his complaint, Sharma highlighted that nearly 30% to 40% of the residential area has, to the best of his knowledge, gradually turned into a commercial hub, putting tremendous pressure on the existing sewerage and drainage infrastructure. Even minor rainfall results in waterlogging and sewer backflow, causing serious inconvenience to residents.

He alleged that despite repeated complaints, the Improvement Trust merely issued notices under Sections 195, 195-A and 81 of the Punjab Town Improvement Trust Act, 1922, but failed to take effective enforcement action, including sealing or demolition of unauthorised constructions. Several buildings have reportedly come up to four or five storeys, despite the prescribed standard design of approximately two-and-a-half storeys. A multi-storey hotel in D Block is also a matter of serious concern.

Sharma questioned why the Trust failed to conduct mandatory site inspections and issue construction-stage certificates at foundation, door and lintel levels, wherever applicable, as required under building regulations. He also raised concerns over unauthorised commercial access, damaged safety grills in E and F Block and encroachments upon residential spaces in other blocks.

He further pointed out that the Improvement Trust handed over the scheme to the Municipal Corporation on 1st April 2026. However, this transfer cannot absolve the Trust of responsibility for violations that occurred during its own tenure.

The complainant has submitted a rejoinder to the Commission, pointing out discrepancies in the Trust's reply and seeking paragraph-wise clarification, documentary evidence of actual enforcement action, and accountability of the officials concerned.

The matter pertains to PSHRC Complaint No. 11209/10/2026, with the next hearing scheduled for 15th December 2026.

Sharma has urged the Commission to seek a detailed factual report, examine the alleged lapses and fix responsibility wherever violations or negligence are established.

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