AMBALA: The Haryana govt has moved to secure more than 6,600 acres of land for a major urban expansion of this city, launching a digital acquisition drive aimed at building new residential and commercial hubs.
Under the plan, the Haryana Shehri Vikas Pradhikaran (HSVP) is inviting farmers from seven key villages to sell their land through the state’s e-Bhoomi portal. Unlike traditional compulsory acquisitions, this process allows landowners to register their consent voluntarily and set their own “desired price” for the property.
The project signals a significant push to modernise the infrastructure of the historic city, located on the border of Punjab and Haryana, by integrating residential, institutional, and commercial sectors.
The Digital Marketplace for Land
During a meeting at the Panchayat Bhawan, Ambala City subdivisional magistrate (SDM) Darshan Kumar outlined the roadmap for the acquisition. Farmers have until April 30, 2026, to register their interest on the govt portal. The total target is about 6,668 acres. The participating villages are Patti Shekhan, Singhawala, Nasirpur, Kanwala, Matheri Jattan, Saunda, and Ugara. The methodology is voluntary consent-based purchase via the e-Bhoomi portal.
“The govt will consider the applications received and proceed with land purchases only after obtaining the consent of the farmers,” the SDM said, emphasising that the process was designed to be transparent and fair.
Modernising Ambala
The HSVP intends to develop these new sectors with “modern infrastructure,” including advanced sewerage systems, reliable water and electricity supply, and a revamped road network. The initiative is part of a broader state strategy to alleviate urban congestion and provide high-quality living environments in secondary cities. By using a consent-based portal, officials hope to avoid the protracted legal battles and protests that have, historically, plagued large-scale land acquisitions in northern India.
Next Steps for Landowners
To ensure the transition is smooth, the HSVP has established support channels for farmers. If facing issues with the digital portal, they can visit the HUDA office in Ambala City. A second meeting is scheduled for landowners in the Ambala Cantonment area on March 17, at the Sector-34 Community Centre.
