Protests over Chandigarh’s Rock Garden shows that urban planning has to strike a balance between heritage and contemporary needs

Grappling with escalating traffic congestion around its complex, the Punjab and Haryana High Court issued a directive to clear land adjacent to the Rock Garden. This move aimed to facilitate road expansion and create additional parking space, thereby alleviating the traffic bottleneck that has long plagued the area. In compliance, the Chandigarh administration commenced the demolition of a section of the Rock Garden’s boundary wall and the removal of over 50 trees. This action, however, was met with immediate and fervent protests by residents, environmentalists, and heritage advocates. Anuj Saini, son of the Rock Garden’s visionary creator, Nek Chand, expressed concern over the alterations to his father’s legacy. He emphasised the irreplaceable nature of the garden, which has long been a testament to the creativity and resilience of the city itself. Local residents criticised the decision-makers, suggesting that those overseeing Chandigarh’s development often lack a genuine connection to the city and its heritage. The overarching sentiment among protesters is clear: The Rock Garden is an integral part of Chandigarh’s identity and must be preserved at all costs.

In response to the backlash, the Chandigarh administration clarified that the demolished structure was not an intrinsic component of Nek Chand’s original design. According to official statements, the wall in question was constructed to enclose adjacent forested land and was not part of the initial artistic vision of the Rock Garden. The administration also highlighted that the road-widening plan had received necessary approvals, including the conversion of forest land to non-forest use authorised by the central government. They assured the public that the project aligns with conservation efforts and that the essence of the Rock Garden would remain untouched.

This situation underscores a perennial challenge faced by urban planners and architects — reconciling heritage conservation with the imperatives of modern infrastructure development. The Rock Garden is not merely a collection of sculptures; it reflects Chandigarh’s history, culture, and the indomitable creativity of its people. Conversely, the city is experiencing growth, and its infrastructure must adapt to burgeoning demands. The traffic congestion near the High Court is a legitimate concern, affecting the daily commute and ease of movement.

Navigating this complex issue requires a nuanced approach that honours our heritage while addressing contemporary needs. One potential solution lies in innovative urban design that integrates the preservation of cultural landmarks with infrastructural enhancements. For instance, instead of expanding roadways at the expense of the Rock Garden, the city could explore alternative traffic management strategies. Implementing advanced traffic signal systems, promoting public transportation or constructing underground parking facilities are avenues worth considering.

Moreover, engaging with the community is paramount. Inclusive dialogues that involve residents, heritage experts, environmentalists and urban planners can lead to solutions that are both respectful of the city’s legacy and conducive to its growth. Public consultations and participatory planning processes ensure that diverse perspectives are considered, fostering a sense of collective ownership over the city’s development trajectory.

The Rock Garden controversy serves as a poignant reminder of the intricate balance required in urban development. As Chandigarh stands at this crossroads, the decisions made today will reverberate through its future, shaping not only the city’s landscape but also its cultural soul. It is incumbent upon us to forge a path that harmoniously blends the preservation of our cherished heritage with the imperatives of progress.

The writer is a Chandigarh-based architect and interior designer