Court allows grain market shift to Chandigarh's Sector 39

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has allowed the relocation of the grain market in Chandigarh. This decision comes after the court dismissed a challenge from traders in the Sector 26 grain market, who opposed the online auction process for new shops in Sector 39. The petition was filed by the Sabzimandi Aarhti Association and about 60 traders. They claimed the auction process violated the existing agricultural laws. However, the court disagreed and stated that they would have to pay a cost of ₹ 2 lakh for their unsuccessful plea. The relocation of the grain market has been planned since 2002 to reduce congestion in Sector 26. The Chandigarh administration started the e-auction process on March 3, 2025, allowing bids to be made online. Bidders need to submit their documents by March 24, with the auction taking place from March 28 to March 31. Each shop, measuring 120 square yards, has a reserve price of ₹ 3.70 crore. Unlike previous sales, these shops will be leased for 99 years instead of being sold outright. The first phase includes 23 shops, with more to be auctioned based on the interest shown. The move marks a significant change for one of the city's oldest wholesale markets as officials prepare to phase out the Sector 26 grain market once the new shops are allocated.