Monday, September 9, 2024 Chandigarh’s tourism gets a boost with plans for cultural hubs, amusement parks, and convention centers, aiming to transform the city into a top destination. In a bid to accelerate tourism and economic growth, the Union Territory administration of Chandigarh has unveiled plans to establish a series of cultural and entertainment hubs across the city. These initiatives include a prominent 11-storey tower in Sector 17, the Nehru Centre for Performing Arts in Sector 34, an Exhibition-cum-Convention Centre in Sector 31, and a large-scale amusement park in Sarangpur.
Once approved by the Union tourism ministry, these ambitious projects will be developed under a public-private partnership (PPP) model, bringing together resources from both sectors to enhance the city’s appeal. The Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme has already begun its implementation process in Chandigarh, with a consultant engaged by the ministry to ensure a holistic development of the city as a prime tourist destination.
This scheme adopts a destination-centric approach, focusing on creating immersive experiences for visitors. As part of the initial phase, a detailed report has been prepared, positioning Chandigarh as a future hub for entertainment and MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions) activities. The report emphasizes the role of technology in creating engaging visitor experiences, proposing attractions like theme parks, virtual reality zones, gaming centers, and live entertainment venues, all designed to meet the growing demand for leisure and entertainment.
Sector 17’s 11-storey tower, originally envisioned by famed architect Le Corbusier, will form the centerpiece of the city’s redevelopment efforts. Covering 1.54 acres, the structure will be a landmark, designed to offer 500,000 square feet of commercial space, spread across two 11-storey blocks and a two-level basement.
The tower will be situated at the intersection of two major pedestrian piazzas, fulfilling Le Corbusier’s vision of Sector 17 as the heart of Chandigarh’s commercial and cultural life. In Sector 34, the Nehru Centre for Performing Arts is set to be constructed on 12.8 acres, adding vibrancy to the city’s public spaces.
This facility will include two theatres with seating capacities of 1,360 and 250, as well as a convention center, food courts, a library, and an outdoor terrace café. Designed to be a cultural landmark, the center aims to invigorate social life in the area. Sector 31 is the chosen location for the Exhibition-cum-Convention Centre, strategically located near industrial zones, the airport, and major trade organizations.
Spread across 5.5 acres, the facility will host trade fairs, exhibitions, conferences, and more, elevating Chandigarh to a premier national convention hub. The project is expected to spur the growth of ancillary businesses, such as hotels, tourism, and trade, making it a key player in regional economic development.
Finally, an amusement park, modeled after Disneyland, is planned for the Sarangpur Institutional Area. Spanning 40 acres, the park will be a major attraction for both locals and tourists, further cementing Chandigarh’s reputation as a destination for entertainment and family-friendly activities. These developments are set to transform Chandigarh into a vibrant, culturally rich city, offering world-class entertainment and convention facilities that will attract visitors from across India and beyond.
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