29 Sep 2023
The Ludhiana Improvement Trust (LIT) officials met with the local bodies department to secure approval for the Atal Apartments project, which has faced prolonged delays and uncertainty over its 15-year history. LIT officials, despite concerns about a low bid, expressed optimism about receiving written approval, highlighting the project's importance. The project involves constructing HIG and MIG flats with modern amenities, and once approved, it is expected to take three years to complete at an estimated cost of Rs 224 crore.Read more
28 Sep 2023
Omaxe Ltd., a prominent real estate developer, has achieved a significant milestone by acquiring over 5 acres of land in Ludhiana through a competitive bidding process with the Rail Land Development Authority (RLDA). The transaction, valued at Rs 220 crore, strategically places this land near Ludhiana's Ghumar Mandi Fountain Chowk in Punjab, offering great potential for residential and commercial development. Omaxe aims to strengthen its presence in key locations near the National Capital Region (NCR), enhancing Ludhiana's real estate market and boosting its own growth. This acquisition aligns with Omaxe's strategy to expand in crucial markets and develop exceptional urban spaces.Read more
18 Sep 2023
GLADA (Greater Ludhiana Area Development Authority) has launched a crackdown on illegal colonies, demolishing infrastructure in five unauthorized settlements. The targeted action took place in Bholapur, Tajpur, Bhamian Kalan, and Kulianwal villages. Developers who disregarded notices faced the demolition drive, carried out with the cooperation of police, PSPCL officials, and the revenue department. GLADA warned against purchasing property in unauthorized colonies, emphasizing their lack of government-sanctioned amenities. They have also recommended against plot registration and electricity connections in such areas. This initiative aims to curb the growth of illegal colonies and protect prospective buyers from fraudulent schemes.Read more
29 Aug 2023
In a bid to clamp down on the rise of unauthorized constructions and instil transparency, officials from the building branch in Ludhiana will now maintain comprehensive online records via the challan management system (CMS). Previously, the uploading of challans occurred monthly or yearly, with many languishing as "pending." This approach shift involves daily data monitoring and necessitates officials to promptly upload solutions. Amid multiple complaints about construction persisting post-sealing, the MC commissioner's transfer has taken place. The civic body, facing financial loss and criticism, aims for effective enforcement via digital reforms.Read more
18 Aug 2023
Ludhiana Improvement Trust (LIT) has received responses from two firms each for constructing High Income Group (HIG) and Middle Income Group (MIG) flats in the Atal Apartment Scheme. HIG flats are bid at Rs 125 crore, MIG flats at Rs 70 crore. After about two weeks of technical and financial evaluation, pending final approvals, LIT aims to accelerate the project led by Chairman Tarsem Bhinder. The plan covers 8.8 acres, comprising 336 HIG, 240 MIG flats, a community centre, tower parking, and amenities. Construction starts after formalities. The project's cost is about Rs 224 crore, targeting flat possession in three years.Read more
11 Aug 2023
The Ludhiana Improvement Trust (LIT) is relying on anticipated revenue from an impending property auction by the Jalandhar Improvement Trust (JIT) to address a complex financial situation. In 2017, JIT had taken a substantial bank loan for its Surya Enclave Extension scheme, leading to collateralization of prime properties, including the Guru Gobind Singh stadium. After state government intervention, LIT and other improvement trusts extended loans to JIT for a settlement. The planned property auction's proceeds were divided, with Ludhiana and Amritsar receiving 40% each and JIT 20%. Despite delays, LIT's financial stability is affirmed, as it navigates various projects and commitments.Read more
02 Aug 2023
In order to curb illegal construction, the Ludhiana Municipal Corporation swiftly demolished eight unapproved constructions throughout the city. The crackdown was directed at structures lacking the appropriate building plan permissions. The MC seeks to protect the city's architectural legacy while discouraging unauthorized building and fostering responsible urban growth. Before beginning construction projects, citizens have been asked to obtain the necessary approvals. The authorities have also stressed the significance of public knowledge and cooperation in upholding the city's aesthetic standards and safety requirements.Read more
12 Jul 2023
The Greater Ludhiana Area Development Authority (GLADA) has come under scrutiny for its failure to take action against developers who have not regularized their illegal colonies, causing distress among residents. Despite the identification of a large number of illegal colonies within GLADA's jurisdiction prior to the implementation of a regularization policy in 2018, little has changed for the inhabitants. However, sources indicate that developers who previously applied under the policy may soon have a final opportunity to rectify their documentation shortcomings and obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for their colonies.Read more
07 Jul 2023
The cost of establishing a disposal plant in Dhandari, under the Smart City Mission, aimed at managing the substantial construction and demolition (C&D) waste of Ludhiana, has escalated significantly. Originally estimated at Rs 2.7 crore, the project's expenses have now surged to Rs 7.6 crore. The plant was intended to efficiently handle the city's vast quantities of C&D waste. However, the substantial cost escalation poses a challenge to the project's implementation. The increased financial burden could impact the timely completion and effectiveness of the plant, potentially requiring additional funding or reassessment of the project's scope.Read more
28 Jun 2023
According to officials, multiple commercial entities are emerging along the South City area. In response, the Ludhiana Improvement Trust (LIT) officials are devising a plan to introduce a new scheme that combines green industry and residential components. The scheme aims to foster sustainable development by incorporating environmentally friendly practices within industrial and residential spaces. Through this initiative, LIT intends to create a harmonious blend of industry and residential areas while promoting a greener and sustainable environment. The scheme's launch is anticipated to provide a platform for both commercial and residential growth, catering to the evolving needs of the region.Read more
26 Jun 2023
Ludhiana's municipal corporation is turning to digital technology to identify property tax defaulters. A new mobile application utilizing Geographical Information System (GIS) mapping allows officials to color-code properties and assign unique identification numbers. This will facilitate the tracking of defaulters and improve operational efficiency. The initiative, which includes live location tracking for field staff and text reminders to defaulters, is part of an aggressive push to achieve this year's property tax target of Rs 130 crore.Read more
12 Jun 2023
Fire officials in Ludhiana have notified 25 commercial establishments lacking fire safety protocols but are unable to conduct subsequent inspections due to manpower shortages and time constraints. The municipal corporation had assured appropriate measures will be taken to ensure safety precautions in commercial enterprises. Inspections are scheduled for institutes this week, and penalties up to Rs 25,000 will be imposed if irregularities are not rectified within 30 days. Lack of fire safety equipment and No Objection Certificates (NOCs) is a common issue.Read more
09 Jun 2023
The Ludhiana Improvement Trust (LIT) in Ludhiana, India, has decided to re-auction a property on Rani Jhansi Road after facing difficulties in finding tenants for the renovated multi-story structure. The building, which features various commercial units, has remained vacant and deteriorated over time. LIT's initial plans to attract banks or a multiplex for consistent rental income have shifted towards auctioning the property. Previous proposals to establish a jewellers' market, an income tax office, and relocate the Powercom office were considered but not implemented. By re-auctioning the property, LIT aims to find a suitable buyer or tenant who can revitalize the building and contribute to the area's development.Read more
01 Jun 2023
Ludhiana is implementing a smart QR code-based Unique Identity Number (UID) system to update the city's property mapping. With rapid growth and changes in the city, the previous mapping has become outdated. A private firm has begun the mapping process and will install UID plates in various blocks. The firm is utilizing survey teams and developing a mobile application to monitor the mapping and installation progress. The project aims to accurately map properties and assign UID numbers, with a target completion time of six months for approximately 5 lakh properties in the city.Read more
29 May 2023
The Atal Apartments project in Ludhiana has been postponed for about 15 years, but the authorities are currently awaiting the MC chief engineer's clearance for the revision of the total cost. The increased estimate is anticipated to be around Rs 225 crore and is owing to an increase in building costs. However, many who have received letters of allotment for the units are worried about the project being finished in the three years that were promised. Modern conveniences like a swimming pool, gym, parks, and a clubhouse have now been included in the project.Read more
01 May 2023
Synopsis: Ludhiana property owners will now get notifications from civic officials to pay their outstanding debts. In a few localities, officials have already begun to serve notices. They will strive to recover outstanding amounts from defaulters in the next two months Over 3.55 lakh tax returns were filed last year. Those who have not paid their taxes will be subject to a 20 percent penalty and 18 percent yearly interest charge.Read more
24 Apr 2023
The Ludhiana municipal corporation is set to install unique identity number (UID) plates with QR codes on properties across the city, following a two-year delay. The UID tags will allow officials to quickly verify property details, ownership, and tax payment status by scanning the QR codes. The project, funded under the Smart City Mission, aims to improve administrative efficiency, transparency, and accountability in property transactions, ultimately benefiting property owners, potential buyers, tenants, and municipal authorities.Read more
19 Apr 2023
The use of digital platforms for property tax payments has resulted in a 24% increase in returns filed in Ludhiana. In the financial year 2021-2022, the city's municipal corporation received 77,555 online returns out of a total of 2.7 lakh property tax returns. This number increased to 1.02 lakh online returns and 3.55 lakh total returns in 2022-2023, resulting in a collection of Rs 31.41 crore. While officials are pleased with the progress, they acknowledge that there is still more scope for digital payments and are continuing their efforts to encourage taxpayers to pay digitally.Read more
18 Apr 2023
The Ludhiana Municipal Corporation (MC) now requires property photos on tax receipts to improve assessment accuracy. While the MC believes this will help prevent wrong assessments, such as paying residential tax for commercial properties, residents have raised concerns about the increased hassle and potential errors. The new system aims to improve efficiency and resolve disputes between taxpayers and the MC, but its long-term success remains to be seen.Read more
17 Apr 2023
The civic officials of Ludhiana are currently celebrating their record-breaking property tax collection for the year, but they have overlooked the issue of recovering pending rent from tenants of their properties. To tackle this issue, officials are planning to seal the properties of people who fail to clear their dues and have asked concerned officials to submit records so that notices can be distributed. The pending dues to be recovered from tenants’ totals to Rs 12 crore.Read more