The Supreme Court of India upholds Punjab and Haryana High Court orders to construct a verandah and install green pavers, stating there’s no violation of UNESCO heritage site regulations. A key ruling impacting the Capitol Complex and sustainable development in Chandigarh.

Supreme Court Upholds High Court Orders on Verandah and Green Parking in Chandigarh

The Supreme Court of India has affirmed the directives issued by the Punjab and Haryana High Court regarding infrastructure upgrades at the court premises. These include the construction of a new verandah in front of Courtroom No. 1 and the installation of green paver blocks in the existing kutcha parking area.

High Court’s Infrastructure Orders Backed by Top Court

A bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta rejected objections raised by the Chandigarh Administration. The Court ruled that the verandah construction aligned with UNESCO guidelines for global heritage sites, including the iconic Capitol Complex.

Preserving Heritage While Promoting Utility

The High Court’s plan to replicate existing verandahs in front of Courtrooms 2–9 was deemed logical and harmonious with the heritage structure. The apex court emphasized that while there’s no UNESCO violation, the Chandigarh Administration may seek ex post facto approval as a precautionary step.

Green Paver Blocks to Address Parking Woes

The Supreme Court also validated the High Court’s February 7 and 21, 2025, orders to install green paver blocks in the open kutcha parking area. The aim is to maximize vehicle capacity, provide shade, and expand greenery, ensuring sustainability without compromising heritage status.

Expert Guidance Encouraged for Landscaping

The High Court was directed to consult landscaping professionals to ensure strategic tree planting and optimal parking. Oversight will be managed by the Court’s internal Concerned Committee.

Temporary Relief in Contempt Proceedings

To facilitate compliance, the Supreme Court has put contempt proceedings—initiated on December 13, 2024—on hold for 12 weeks. This includes temporary relief for Chief Engineer CB Ojha, who had been named in the notice.

Timeline of Events and Legal Journey

The issue originated in 2023 when the High Court Secretary filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) to enhance infrastructure. A writ of mandamus was issued on November 29, 2024, instructing the Chandigarh Administration to complete the verandah within six weeks. The Administration, citing the World Heritage Committee and design principles by Le Corbusier, challenged the directive.

Architectural and Environmental Balance Emphasized

Despite pending consultations with Fondation Le Corbusier and the Archaeological Survey of India, the High Court moved forward, citing urgent public utility concerns. The Supreme Court stayed these orders temporarily in January 2025 but has now reversed that decision.

Parking Crisis and Sustainable Growth

The High Court justified green pavers due to the daily influx of 3,000–4,000 vehicles and the limited capacity of the underground three-tier parking (600 cars). It also ordered planting 100–200 trees to restore green space.

Final Verdict: All Orders Upheld

All four orders issued by the High Court—including verandah construction and green parking upgrades—stand upheld by the Supreme Court. This landmark decision sets a precedent for balancing heritage preservation with modern infrastructure and environmental sustainability.