Tewari also questioned the relevance of applying Lal Dora regulations to 22 villages of Union Territory (UT) Chandigarh, which now fall under the jurisdiction of the Municipal Corporation of Chandigarh. He sought clarity on how the concept of Lal Dora aligns with Chandigarh’s urban planning and the objectives outlined in the city’s Master Plan 2031.

The MP further inquired about steps being taken to ensure equitable infrastructure development across the city and prevent gaps in water and sanitation services in Lal Dora areas.

Expressing concern over recent disconnections of water connections in residential areas outside Lal Dora, Tewari accused the Union Government of evading his questions. He argued that the distinction between areas within and outside Lal Dora is no longer relevant, as these villages are now part of Chandigarh’s municipal limits.

“The Union Government is hiding behind outdated rules instead of addressing the serious issues faced by the city,” Tewari said.

In his reply, the minister explained that development outside Lal Dora is regulated by the Chandigarh Master Plan 2031, which operates under the Punjab New Capital (Periphery) Control Act, 1952, and the Capital of Punjab (Development and Regulation) Act, 1952.

Rai added that construction within Lal Dora follows the 2017 building bye-laws specific to rural areas, while construction outside Lal Dora is governed by the Chandigarh Building Rules (Urban), 2017.

Regarding water connections, Rai said the Chandigarh Water Supply Bye-Laws, 2011, allow the Municipal Corporation to release water connections only within Lal Dora. Unauthorized connections are regularly disconnected as part of an ongoing process. Sanitation facilities, he assured, are provided throughout the city.