Chandigarh admn approves Panjab University’s south campus development plan

The Chandigarh Administration has granted conceptual approval for the master plan of Panjab University’s Sector 25 campus (South Campus). This approval paves the way for a major phase of expansion and infrastructure development with a strong focus on student welfare and academic advancement.

Panjab University Vice-Chancellor Prof Renu Vig thanked the Chandigarh Administration, stating that the conceptual master plan has been designed with a student-centric focus. The university aims to develop the south campus to address the growing needs of students and faculty, particularly through enhancing academic infrastructure to support emerging and interdisciplinary fields.

Key proposals include nine new academic blocks, in addition to the twelve existing blocks housing sixteen departments across healthcare, business management, sciences, and social sciences. A dedicated library-cum-reading hall is also proposed to supplement the main Sector 14 campus library, providing students with quiet, well-equipped study zones near their departments in Sector 25.

For sports and recreation, 2.75 acres have been centrally allocated, mirroring the open layout of the Sector 14 campus. A student activity centre is planned to become a hub for extracurricular engagement and cultural programming.

To improve accessibility, a multilevel basement parking facility with a capacity of 700 vehicles is proposed near the UIET gate. Residential facilities will be expanded, including four girls’ hostels and two boys’ hostels, with an international hostel to accommodate overseas students.

Currently underway are key infrastructure projects, including a 2,200-seat auditorium and a four-storied Technology Block near Dental Hospital, designed to support start-ups and innovation.

The master plan’s approval follows a thorough review by the Town Planning Wing of the Chandigarh Administration and clearance from Technical Sub-Committee and Main Committee of Chandigarh Heritage Conservation Committee. Formal approval was granted by Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria.

Chandigarh