Once hailed as India’s model city, Chandigarh is now grappling with a decline in quality of life as major development projects remain stalled due to administrative delays and inconsistent political will. Despite ambitious plans, execution has remained elusive.

The metro project, first proposed in 2009, has struggled to get off the ground. Former BJP MP Kirron Kher opposed it, and despite a green signal from RITES in 2024 deeming it economically viable, its estimated cost of ₹25,000–30,000 crore remains a major hurdle. Only 16.5 km of the proposed 85.65 km route will run underground through Chandigarh’s heritage sectors. If clearances come through, construction is expected to begin in 2027 and finish by 2032. Congress leader Pawan Kumar Bansal blamed the prolonged delay on the lack of follow-up after 2014.

The Tribune Chowk flyover project, approved in 2016 and sanctioned in 2019 for ₹184 crore, also hit a roadblock when the high court issued a stay. Though the stay was lifted in 2024, revised cost estimates now sit at ₹245 crore. The Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has decided to re-invite bids. Critics argue that poor planning and lack of supporting studies have made the city’s traffic problems worse.

The Education City, promised in 2006 as a hub for world-class institutions, has made minimal progress. Only one institution was set up in nearly two decades. Tough terms and a lack of sustained engagement deterred top institutes like IIT Ropar and IIM Amritsar from establishing campuses.

The Industrial Area Phase 3, proposed in the 1970s and planned in 2003, remains largely undeveloped. Despite acquiring land and identifying sites, the outdated leasehold model and administrative inertia have blocked growth. Industry leaders have called for reforms to help Chandigarh compete with industrial hubs like Mohali and Panchkula.

The Film City project, proposed in 2007, also collapsed after the administration failed to provide clear land to Parsvnath Developers. In 2025, the Supreme Court ordered Chandigarh to pay ₹118 crore for the failed deal. Industry voices say a Film City could have created significant opportunities for youth in the region.

Chandigarh’s development dreams continue to remain just that—dreams—without the political commitment and bureaucratic consistency needed to make them a reality.