A historic district in Haryana, although still seeking clarity on its name, is gradually becoming a hub for real estate investments, which were virtually absent just a couple of years ago.
Ambala is divided into two regions: Ambala Cantt and Ambala City. The city is currently witnessing the emergence of several group housing schemes in addition to commercial projects. This transit hub located between Chandigarh and Delhi, gained traction among realtors following the initiation of a major six-lane road project. Once completed, this road widening initiative is expected to reduce travel time by approximately one hour.
The real estate landscape here is poised for even greater activity, as developed firms including Unitech, Reliance Industries, and DLF are reportedly securing land for the establishment of their Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Naraingarh.
In the near term, Vatika Group is on the verge of launching a group housing scheme, which will be succeeded by commercial properties. The Vatika Group boasts an impressive land bank exceeding 170 acres in the city and is also engaged in a plotting endeavor with prices starting from Rs 7,500 per square yard.
Plots available range from 240 to 1,000 yards, catering to various preferences. Anticipated for booking next month, the group's housing project spans 10 acres and will feature between 500 and 700 apartments, comprising both two-bedroom and three-bedroom units, with 45% of the area designated as green space. There are also plans for a multiplex within this development.
In addition, several other developers are contemplating the establishment of shopping malls. Residential colonies are being planned in regions adjacent to Dera Bassi in Punjab, providing easier access to Ambala district for Haryana residents.
Projects like Dreamland Colony, Defence City, and Omaxe Greens, though essentially extensions of Ambala, have surfaced in Punjab, easily reachable from both Ambala Cantt and Ambala City. These new developments come outfitted with broad roads, sewerage systems, and adequate street lighting facilities.
Recently, the Central Government transferred over 1,100 acres of land within Ambala cantonment to the Haryana government. Historically, a significant portion of the Cantt area remained off-limits, hindering both real estate players and residents from pursuing new constructions, as ownership of buildings lay with residents while the Centre retained land possession.
Haryana Urban Development Authority's sectors 9, 10, and 11 in Ambala City are currently commanding prices ranging from Rs 8,000 to Rs 11,000 per square yard. Homes in these sectors typically cover six marla, 10 marlas, and one kanal. Ambala Cantt sees private colonies such as Agrasen Nagar, Ekta Vihar, and Rani Vihar trading at Rs 12,000 per yard, with plot sizes from four marlas (100 square yards) to one kanal (600 square yards).
In total, HUDA has established three new sectors — 32, 33, and 34, with plans for an additional 30 sectors as part of its expansion initiative. Government plot prices in the region range from Rs 8,000 to Rs 10,000 per square yard.