Chandigarh is preparing a new venue to host large-scale events, responding to recent issues with traffic congestion and logistical challenges at existing sites. The administration has begun preparing an open ground in Sarangpur to accommodate gatherings of more than 5,000 people.
Venue Challenges and Shift in Events
In recent months, several concerts and public events have moved to neighboring Panchkula and Mohali due to limited suitable venues within Chandigarh and increasing restrictions on existing grounds. These restrictions stemmed from widespread chaos experienced during past events.
The move to Sarangpur is an interim measure while a proposed 25-acre concert-cum-exhibition center is under development, a project expected to take approximately six months to complete. The Sarangpur ground will be developed similarly to the exhibition ground in Sector 34.
Officials determined Sarangpur’s location on the outskirts of the city and its vast open spaces would minimize traffic and parking issues compared to central sector venues.
Concerns Over Past Events
The decision follows complaints from residents and traders regarding traffic congestion, noise pollution, and business disruptions during concerts held at the Sector 34 exhibition ground in December 2024. A resident of Sector 23 even approached the Punjab and Haryana high court seeking a ban on the Diljit Dosanjh concert due to noise concerns.
The high court allowed the concert to proceed but directed authorities to enforce noise regulations, limiting sound levels to 75 decibels. Following these challenges, the administration stopped granting permission for large gatherings at Sector 34.
An AP Dhillon concert originally scheduled for Sector 34 in December 2024 was moved to Sector 25, though event organizers have shown limited interest in utilizing that location. A November 2023 concert by Arijit Singh also faced initial denial of permission due to parking concerns at Sector 34.
Looking Ahead
UT tourism secretary Syed Abid Rasheed Shah stated the new venue will generate revenue for the administration and promote an exhibition and event culture. The administration hopes to reclaim events that have recently moved to neighboring cities.
Development perform at the Sarangpur site is already underway, with officials expediting efforts to prepare the ground for large public gatherings within two months. This includes clearing vegetation and leveling the land.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did events start moving out of Chandigarh?
Several concerts and public events moved to neighboring Panchkula and Mohali due to limited suitable venues within Chandigarh and increasing restrictions on existing grounds stemming from past chaos.
What steps are being taken to address the issues at Sector 34?
The administration has stopped granting permission for large gatherings at the Sector 34 exhibition ground and is developing a new venue in Sarangpur.
How long will it take for the Sarangpur venue to be ready?
The interim venue in Sarangpur is expected to be ready within two months, while a proposed 25-acre concert-cum-exhibition center is expected to take around six months to complete.
Will Chandigarh be able to successfully balance hosting large events with minimizing disruption to residents?
