Chandigarh

Chandigarh is a Union Territory of India that serves as the joint capital of Punjab and Haryana. Renowned for its modern urban design, green landscapes, and high standard of living, Chandigarh stands as a model of post-independence urban planning in India. It was one of the earliest planned cities of independent India and remains a symbol of architectural innovation and administrative efficiency.

Historical Background

The idea of constructing a new capital emerged after the Partition of India in 1947, when Lahore, the former capital of Punjab, became part of Pakistan. Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru envisioned Chandigarh as a modern and progressive city representing India’s aspirations for the future. The site was chosen at the foothills of the Shivalik Range, near the existing town of Ambala.
The city’s master plan was initially prepared by American architect Albert Mayer, but after the untimely death of his planner partner Matthew Nowicki, the project was handed over to the renowned Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier in 1951. Under his supervision, Chandigarh was designed following modernist principles, focusing on geometry, functionality, and harmony between architecture and nature.

Geography and Layout

Chandigarh covers an area of approximately 114 square kilometres and lies at an elevation of about 321 metres above sea level. It shares borders with the states of Punjab and Haryana, serving as their joint administrative capital. The city experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers, a monsoon season from June to September, and cool winters.
The city’s layout follows a grid pattern, divided into sectors, each functioning as a self-contained neighbourhood with residential, commercial, and recreational areas. The Capitol Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, houses key government buildings including the Secretariat, Legislative Assembly, and High Court. The layout integrates extensive green belts, roundabouts, and wide boulevards, ensuring efficient traffic flow and environmental balance.

Architecture and Urban Planning

Le Corbusier’s architectural vision for Chandigarh reflected modernist ideals, focusing on clean lines, minimal ornamentation, and the use of concrete and open spaces. The Capitol Complex is the most iconic architectural ensemble, featuring monumental buildings symbolising the functions of governance. The Open Hand Monument, standing 26 metres high, is a symbol of “peace and reconciliation” and represents the city’s spirit of progress.
Each sector, typically 800 by 1200 metres in dimension, was designed to include schools, health centres, markets, and parks within walking distance. The Sector 17 Plaza, often called the city’s “heart”, serves as the primary commercial and cultural hub. Chandigarh’s architectural legacy has influenced the design of several planned cities across India, including Gandhinagar and Bhubaneswar.

Governance and Administration

Chandigarh functions as a Union Territory directly administered by the Government of India, with a Lieutenant Governor serving as the chief administrator. It also acts as the capital of both Punjab and Haryana, with the Punjab and Haryana High Court serving both states. The city has its own Municipal Corporation, which oversees civic management, waste disposal, public utilities, and infrastructure.
Chandigarh is represented in the Lok Sabha by a single parliamentary constituency. It follows a decentralised governance model, encouraging public participation through local administrative bodies.

Demography and Culture

According to the 2011 Census, Chandigarh has a population of around 1.05 million with one of the highest literacy rates in the country, exceeding 86%. The official languages are Hindi, Punjabi, and English. The population represents a cosmopolitan mix of people from various parts of India, reflecting its role as a regional administrative and educational hub.
Culturally, Chandigarh blends Punjabi vibrancy with modern urban sophistication. Festivals such as Baisakhi, Diwali, Holi, and Chandigarh Carnival are celebrated with enthusiasm. The city’s residents enjoy a diverse culinary culture, with Punjabi cuisine being predominant. The lifestyle is marked by modernity, civic discipline, and high human development indicators.

Economy and Education

Chandigarh’s economy is driven by government administration, education, services, trade, and information technology. Being the capital of two states, it hosts numerous government offices and public sector institutions. The Rajiv Gandhi Chandigarh Technology Park (RGCTP) has attracted major IT companies such as Infosys and Tech Mahindra, contributing to the region’s economic diversification.
Education is another strong pillar of the city’s economy. Renowned institutions such as Panjab University, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Punjab Engineering College (PEC), and Government College of Art have earned national and international recognition. Chandigarh consistently ranks high in literacy, innovation, and youth employment indicators.

Transportation and Connectivity

Chandigarh is well connected by road, rail, and air. The Chandigarh International Airport, located in Mohali, provides domestic and limited international connectivity. The Chandigarh Railway Station links the city with major destinations such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. A well-structured network of wide roads, roundabouts, and signal-free corridors supports efficient intra-city transport.
Public transport is primarily managed by the Chandigarh Transport Undertaking (CTU), operating buses within the city and to neighbouring states. Plans for metro connectivity and increased emphasis on electric mobility are being considered to support sustainable urban growth.

Tourism and Landmarks

Chandigarh is celebrated for its aesthetic and recreational spaces. Major attractions include:

• Rock Garden, created by Nek Chand, an artistic marvel made from recycled materials.
• Sukhna Lake, a man-made reservoir offering boating and scenic views.
• Rose Garden, Asia’s largest rose garden, named after Zakir Hussain.
• Capitol Complex, with its monumental government buildings.
• Leisure Valley, a continuous green corridor connecting multiple parks.

The city’s clean environment, disciplined planning, and abundance of greenery make it a popular destination for domestic and international visitors.

Environment and Sustainability

Chandigarh is widely recognised for its environmental planning. Nearly 40% of the city’s area is under green cover, with strict building regulations ensuring minimal ecological disruption. The Leisure Valley, Bougainvillea Garden, and Botanical Garden are key features of its eco-friendly design. The administration promotes renewable energy through solar rooftop initiatives and waste management programmes.
The city has been consistently ranked among India’s cleanest and most liveable urban centres under the Swachh Survekshan and Ease of Living Index.

Contemporary Significance

Today, Chandigarh symbolises a balance between tradition and modernity. It remains a model of urban governance, architecture, and sustainable development in India. The challenges of population growth, traffic management, and preservation of heritage architecture are being addressed through continuous urban policy reforms.