Mohali: An ambitious plan to boost industrial and technological development in Punjab is set to take shape with the creation of a high-tech “Expo City” in Mohali. Envisioned as a driver of investment and innovation, the project will span 182.8 acres across four villages. It aims to strengthen the state’s industrial ecosystem while creating employment opportunities for local youth.Officials said the upcoming Expo City has been conceived as a platform for large-scale industrial exhibitions, technology-driven collaborations, and business networking. With a focus on emerging sectors including artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, and technology services, the project is expected to position Punjab more prominently in the country’s tech landscape.A key highlight of the project will be the country’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI) Tower. Planned as a dedicated hub for technology companies, the tower will offer modern office spaces capable of accommodating around 300 firms. Authorities believe this will help create a centralised ecosystem for AI-based start-ups, research organisations, and tech enterprises operating in rapidly evolving digital sectors.The project will feature several world-class facilities to support business activities and international events. A convention centre with a seating capacity of 5,000 is being planned to host national and global trade shows, technology summits, and industrial exhibitions. Additionally, a 300-room hotel will be developed within the complex to provide accommodation for delegates, exhibitors, and business travellers attending events at the site.Officials said the Expo City will be designed on the lines of Pragati Maidan in New Delhi, enabling Mohali to host large trade fairs and conventions similar to those held at the capital’s premier exhibition venue. They added that such a facility would significantly increase the region’s ability to attract major industrial and technological events.According to details issued by the Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (Gmada) under the Punjab Housing and Urban Development Department, land will be acquired from four villages in Mohali region. A formal notification stated that the project falls under the definition of a planned development project as per Section 2(1)(e). This classification means that consent from the gram sabha or individual landowners under Section 2(2) will not be required.A social impact assessment (SIA) has also been mandated for the project. Authorities said the assessment will be completed within six months of the notification and will include both a social impact assessment report and a social impact management plan. These documents will be made public in accordance with Section 6 of the Act.Officials added that land acquisition will be carried out under the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013, ensuring compensation and rehabilitation measures for those affected by the process.BOXLand Proposed for Expo CityVillage | Land area (acres)Safipur – 34.03Landiyali – 6.95Dharamgarh – 68.06Rudka – 76.84Total – 182.88BOXKey features of Expo City— Country’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI) Tower— Office space for around 300 technology companies— 5,000-seat convention centre for global conferences and exhibitions— 300-room modern hotel for visitors and delegates—Complex planned on the lines of Pragati Maidan, New Delhi—Expected to generate major investment and employment opportunitiesMSID:: 129159038 413 |
