The Chandigarh administration has issued a show-cause notice to the Taj Hotel in Sector 17A for carrying out extensive unauthorized alterations to its building. The hotel management has been given 15 days to respond, failing which strict action will be taken.
According to the notice issued under the Chandigarh Estate Rules 2007 and the Capital of Punjab (Development and Regulation) Act 1952, officials found more than 18 illegal constructions and changes in the use of various areas within the hotel premises.
The unauthorized modifications were reportedly carried out in the basement, ground floor and open areas, directly violating the approved building plan.
The notice, issued by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Central, with copies sent to the SDO (B) and the Central Record Room, details multiple violations discovered during inspection. In the basement, the fire alarm control room was altered, a corridor behind the fire lift was converted into an office, staircase planning was changed, and a store was constructed in the parking area using GI sheets.
The layouts of the training room, recreation room, driver’s room and sales office were also modified without permission.
On the ground floor, the luggage room layout was changed, Shop No. 2 was redesigned, the corridor near the fire lift was converted into a smoking room, and the banquet store planning was altered. A small room was also constructed behind the Lava Bar, and the floor level of the anchor shop was modified.
Furthermore, in the open and service areas, additional violations included the construction of GI and AC sheet sheds in the parking, ETP, gas bank and HSD pump yard areas. Landscaping near the reception porch and on both sides of the main gate was altered, and the front elevation’s color scheme was changed.
The administration has ordered the hotel to remove all unauthorized constructions within two months. A penalty of Rs 6 per square foot per day has also been imposed for the entire period of violation, which will be treated as arrears of land revenue if unpaid.
The hotel management has been given the opportunity to present its case in writing within 15 days and to appear in person at a hearing scheduled for December 9 at 2:30 pm.