Gurgaon News

Between August 2019 and November 2024, Haryana authorities seized 13,118 vehicles involved in unauthorized mineral transportation, imposing fines totaling ₹185 crore. Yamunanagar district led with 2,815 seizures—over 21% of the state’s total—highlighting its role as a focal point in the fight against illegal mining. Source The Times of India Gurgaon and Nuh districts collectively accounted for 1,637 cases (approximately 12.5%), while Faridabad and Palwal reported 1,366 cases. Mahendergarh and Panchkula also saw significant activity, with 1,309 and 1,054 seizures respectively. These five districts represented over 62% of all vehicle seizures, underscoring the concentration of illegal mining operations in these areas. Source The Times of India In terms of financial penalties, Gurgaon and Nuh topped the list with ₹28 crore collected, followed by Sonipat at ₹25 crore. Despite leading in seizures, Yamunanagar ranked third in penalties, collecting ₹21 crore, suggesting that many cases there involved smaller violations or lower-value minerals. Source The Times of India  The proximity of these districts to the National Capital Region (NCR) contributes to the prevalence of illegal mining, driven by the high demand for construction materials such as sand, stone, and gravel. Environmentalists express concern that this surge in unauthorized mining not only depletes natural resources but also causes significant ecological damage. Source The Times of India To combat this issue, Haryana has implemented advanced monitoring techniques, including the use of drones and satellite imagery, and mandated GPS installation in mining vehicles to enhance oversight and enforcement. The Times of India These measures reflect the state’s commitment to curbing illegal mining activities and preserving its environmental integrity.

The Department of Town and Country Planning (DTCP) has intensified its crackdown on unauthorized constructions in Gurgaon’s DLF phases 1, 2, and 3, recommending the cancellation of occupation certificates (OCs) for 745 properties. This action affects both general and economically weaker section (EWS) category plots. The DTCP has also directed DLF management to disconnect water and sewer connections to these properties.  District Town Planner (Enforcement) Amit Madholia stated that after issuing show-cause notices and restoration orders without satisfactory compliance, the department has now requested the revocation of the OCs. Additionally, they may approach the Dakshin Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam (DHBVN) to disconnect electricity supply in accordance with the Haryana Building Code, 2017.  The enforcement action impacts 232 general category properties—43 in DLF Phase 1, 57 in DLF Phase 2, and 132 in DLF Phase 3. Furthermore, 513 EWS category properties, all located in DLF Phase 3, are affected. Prior to this, multiple notices were sent to homeowners regarding violations, instructing them to remove unauthorized modifications and restore properties to comply with building regulations. However, many failed to comply, leading to the current enforcement measures.

The real estate sector is witnessing significant growth, with housing sales soaring by 66% in major markets. Gurugram and Delhi-NCR have emerged as the frontrunners, driving this surge due to increased demand and a strong investor outlook. Key Highlights: Robust Growth: The residential property market has experienced a 66% increase in sales, reflecting rising consumer confidence. Gurugram & Delhi-NCR Lead: These regions have become prime hotspots, attracting both homebuyers and investors. Premium & Mid-Segment Demand: The surge is fueled by growing interest in premium and mid-segment housing projects. Infrastructure & Connectivity: Improved infrastructure and seamless connectivity have played a crucial role in boosting real estate activity. Investment Opportunities: The positive momentum is drawing attention from institutional investors and developers. Experts predict that the real estate sector will continue its upward trajectory, driven by favorable economic conditions, low home loan rates, and an increasing preference for home ownership.

Gurgaon is poised for a significant democratic exercise as it prepares for the Municipal Corporation elections scheduled on March 2, 2025. This election is particularly noteworthy, marking the first time residents will vote for two distinct municipal corporations: the Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG) and the newly established Municipal Corporation of Manesar (MCM). Background The previous MCG House concluded its term 27 months ago, leading to an extended period without elected municipal representation. The announcement of these elections brings an end to this hiatus, offering citizens the opportunity to elect leaders who will address local governance and infrastructural challenges. Source : Times of India Election Schedule and Key Dates The Haryana State Election Commission has outlined the following timeline for the electoral process: Political Landscape The Indian National Congress has proactively released a list of 29 candidates for the upcoming MCG elections. Former minister and ticket distribution committee member, Sukhbir Kataria, emphasized that selections were merit-based, ensuring representation across various communities. The party aims to address local issues and present a formidable challenge to the incumbent Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Administrative Preparations The district administration, under the guidance of Deputy Commissioner and District Election Officer Shri Ajay Kumar, has been diligently preparing for the elections. A significant milestone achieved is the completion of booth-wise randomization of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), underscoring the commitment to transparent and fair elections.

On Thursday, Gurugram experienced its highest minimum temperature of the season at 18.7°C, a significant increase from Wednesday’s 12.5°C and nearly 8 degrees above the seasonal average. The maximum temperature was 23.7°C, slightly below the typical level for this time of year. Humidity levels ranged between 71% and 80%. The city also saw an improvement in air quality, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) decreasing to 167 (‘moderate’) from the previous day’s 212 (‘poor’), likely due to light rainfall that helped clear pollutants. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts a generally cloudy sky with occasional rain or thundershowers over the next two days, which may further enhance air quality. An ‘orange’ alert has been issued for parts of Haryana over the next three days, anticipating thunderstorms, lightning, hailstorms, and gusty winds ranging from 30 to 40 km/h. The IMD also predicts that the minimum temperature could rise to 19°C within 48 hours. According to the IMD, AQI levels are categorized as follows: 0-50 (‘good’), 51-100 (‘satisfactory’), 101-200 (‘moderate’), 201-300 (‘poor’), 301-400 (‘very poor’), and 401-500 (‘severe’).

A newly inaugurated expressway has significantly reduced travel time between Gurugram and Rewari by 50%. This infrastructure development is poised to enhance regional connectivity and stimulate economic growth. The expressway, designed to alleviate traffic congestion, offers a more efficient route for commuters and transporters. By bypassing previously congested areas, it ensures a smoother and faster journey between the two cities. This improvement is expected to benefit daily commuters, businesses, and logistics operations, leading to increased productivity and reduced transportation costs. Enhanced connectivity often attracts investments, promotes tourism, and facilitates the movement of goods and services. The expressway is anticipated to serve as a catalyst for regional development, creating new opportunities for local communities and contributing to the overall economic prosperity of the area.