Big news for anyone tracking real estate development in the Tricity region: GMADA (Greater Mohali Area Development Authority) has just announced the land acquisition for Eco City-3, one of the most ambitious urban development projects in Punjab. According to the latest announcement dated December 22, 2025, awards for 713 acres of land across 9 villages will be distributed on December 24, 2025.
This isn’t just another land acquisition story—it’s the foundation of what will become a major planned township that could reshape New Chandigarh’s real estate landscape for decades to come. Let me break down what this means for property buyers, investors, landowners, and anyone interested in Mohali’s future.
What Exactly is Eco City-3?
Eco City-3 is GMADA’s third major township development project in the New Chandigarh (Mullanpur) region, following the success of Eco City-1 and Eco City-2. This is a massive planned development designed to accommodate Chandigarh’s spillover growth while creating a modern, sustainable urban environment.
The Scale of the Project:
Total Land Being Acquired: 713 Acres
This is spread across 9 villages in the Mullanpur-Chandigarh region:
- Village Takipur: 317.35 acres (largest chunk)
- Village Kesmala: 169.6125 acres
- Village Kartarpur: 93.6625 acres
- Village Hoshiyarpur: 56.2750 acres
- Village Rajgarh: 42.1375 acres
- Village Rasulpur: 20.6625 acres
- Village Salamatpur: 6.7875 acres
- Village Majara: 6.5875 acres
- Village Dholamajara: 0.3 acres
Award Announcement Date: December 24, 2025
Land acquisition awards will be announced at 11 AM on December 24. This is when landowners in these villages will officially learn about compensation and the formal land transfer process begins.
Why These Villages?
The selected villages are strategically located in the New Chandigarh expansion zone, close to existing infrastructure and planned developments. They’re positioned to benefit from:
- Proximity to the Chandigarh-Ludhiana highway
- Access to the peripheral road
- Connectivity to IT City and Airport Road
- Planned metro extensions (future)
What Will Be Built on This Land?
Based on GMADA’s development pattern with Eco City-1 and Eco City-2, here’s what we can expect:
Residential Sectors
The bulk of the land will likely be developed into residential sectors with:
- Plotted developments (5 Marla, 10 Marla, 1 Kanal plots)
- Group housing complexes
- Apartment towers with modern amenities
- Villa projects for premium buyers
Commercial Zones
Dedicated commercial areas including:
- Shopping complexes and markets
- Office spaces for businesses
- SCO (Shop-Cum-Office) plots
- Hotels and hospitality projects
Institutional and Civic Amenities
A well-planned city needs infrastructure:
- Schools and educational institutions
- Hospitals and healthcare facilities
- Parks and recreational spaces
- Community centers
- Religious and cultural spaces
Green and Sustainable Features
The “Eco” in Eco City isn’t just branding. Expect:
- Green belt areas
- Sustainable water management systems
- Solar energy integration
- Waste management facilities
- Cycling and pedestrian-friendly design
Timeline: When Will Development Actually Happen?
Let’s be realistic about timelines. Government projects in India follow a structured process:
Phase 1: Land Acquisition (Current)
- Award announcement: December 24, 2025
- Compensation payment to landowners: Next 3-6 months
- Legal clearances and possession: 6-12 months
Phase 2: Planning and Approvals (2026-2027)
- Master plan finalization
- Sector layout design
- Environmental clearances
- Infrastructure planning (roads, water, electricity)
Phase 3: Infrastructure Development (2027-2028)
- Road construction
- Water and sewage systems
- Electricity grid setup
- Basic amenities installation
Phase 4: Plot Allotment (2028-2029)
- Plot auctions for residential and commercial use
- Builder allocations for group housing
- Construction begins
Phase 5: Handover and Occupancy (2030+)
- First residents move in
- Commercial establishments open
- Schools and hospitals operational
Realistic Expectation: Don’t expect to buy a plot and move in next year. We’re looking at 4-6 years before Eco City-3 becomes a livable, functioning township.
Real Estate Impact: Who Benefits?
This announcement creates ripples across multiple stakeholder groups:
1. Landowners in the 9 Villages
These are the immediate beneficiaries. Farmers and landowners in Takipur, Kesmala, Kartarpur, and other villages will receive compensation at current market rates plus development charges.
What They Should Do:
- Attend the December 24 award ceremony
- Verify compensation amounts carefully
- Consult legal advisors before signing
- Understand tax implications of land sale proceeds
- Consider reinvesting in real estate or other assets
2. Property Investors and Buyers
Smart investors are already paying attention. Here’s why:
Near-Term Opportunities (Next 2-3 Years):
- Properties in adjacent areas (Landran, existing New Chandigarh sectors) will appreciate as Eco City-3 takes shape
- Commercial land near the project boundary becomes more valuable
- Rental demand increases in nearby areas as construction workers and early businesses arrive
Medium-Term (3-5 Years):
- Plot auctions in Eco City-3 offer fresh investment opportunities
- Early buyers in the township get best pricing
- Adjacent properties see 30-40% appreciation
Long-Term (5-10 Years):
- Established sectors in Eco City-3 become premium addresses
- Complete infrastructure drives residential and commercial demand
- Property values stabilize at significantly higher levels
3. Adjacent Property Owners
If you already own property in areas surrounding these 9 villages, congratulations—your property value just got a boost.
Areas That Will Benefit Most:
- Landran: Already developing rapidly, will become a gateway to Eco City-3
- Existing New Chandigarh Sectors: Better infrastructure connectivity
- Mullanpur: Commercial and residential properties will appreciate
- Villages on the periphery: Even areas not directly part of Eco City-3 benefit from improved infrastructure
I’ve already started getting calls from clients asking about properties in Landran and Mullanpur. Smart buyers are positioning themselves now, before prices adjust to the new reality.
4. Businesses and Entrepreneurs
Large-scale urban development creates business opportunities:
Immediate Needs:
- Construction material suppliers
- Labor contractors
- Equipment rental companies
- Site offices and temporary facilities
Long-Term Opportunities:
- Retail establishments in commercial zones
- Schools and educational institutions
- Healthcare facilities
- Hospitality (hotels, restaurants)
- Logistics and warehousing (good highway connectivity)
Comparing Eco City-3 with Eco City-1 and Eco City-2
Let’s learn from GMADA’s previous projects:
Eco City-1 (Older Development)
This was one of GMADA’s early planned townships. Properties here have appreciated significantly since launch. However, infrastructure development took longer than initially promised—a lesson to keep expectations realistic.
Current Status: Mostly developed, established residential and commercial areas, good connectivity.
Price Appreciation: Properties that sold for ₹20-25 lakhs per Kanal 8-10 years ago now command ₹60-80 lakhs per Kanal.
Eco City-2 (Ongoing Development)
This is in various stages of completion. Some sectors are fully developed and occupied, while others are still under construction.
Current Status: Mixed—some areas thriving, others still developing.
Lesson: Buy in phases that are already showing visible infrastructure development. Avoid buying in completely undeveloped phases unless you have a very long investment horizon.
Eco City-3 (Just Announced)
This is the freshest opportunity, but also the longest wait.
Expected Advantage: Learning from Eco City-1 and 2’s challenges, GMADA should have better planning and execution strategies.
Key Differentiator: Proximity to IT City and Airport Road gives Eco City-3 better connectivity than earlier projects.
Investment Perspective: Should You Buy Now or Wait?
This is the question everyone asks, so let me give you my honest take:
Arguments FOR Buying Now (in Adjacent Areas):
Price Advantage: Properties near Eco City-3 haven’t fully adjusted to this news yet. There’s a 6-12 month window where you can still get reasonable prices.
Rental Income: As development progresses, rental demand in nearby areas will increase—construction workers, site offices, early businesses all need accommodation.
Long-Term Appreciation: Infrastructure projects like this drive sustained 30-50% appreciation over 5-10 years.
First-Mover Advantage: When plot auctions happen in Eco City-3 itself, being familiar with the area helps. Some investors buy nearby first, then upgrade into the main township later.
Arguments FOR Waiting:
Construction Delays: Government projects often run late. What’s promised in 5 years might take 7-8 years.
Market Corrections: If you buy too early at inflated prices anticipating development, you could face years of stagnant value if timelines slip.
Better Options May Emerge: As plans crystallize, you’ll have clearer information about which specific sectors in Eco City-3 are best located.
Infrastructure Uncertainty: Until roads, water, and electricity are actually visible on the ground, there’s execution risk.
My Recommendation:
For Long-Term Investors (7-10+ Year Horizon): Consider buying property in adjacent areas like Landran, Mullanpur, or existing New Chandigarh sectors. You’ll benefit from Eco City-3’s development without the uncertainty of timelines.
For Speculative Investors (3-5 Year Horizon): Wait for plot auctions in Eco City-3 itself. Participate early but only commit capital you can afford to lock up for at least 5 years.
For Homebuyers: Don’t buy here expecting to move in next year. If you need a home in the next 2-3 years, look at established areas. Eco City-3 is for patient buyers who can wait for development.
For Businesses: Start doing groundwork now—understand the layout, identify potential commercial zones, and build relationships with GMADA officials. When commercial plot auctions happen, you’ll be prepared.
Legal and Practical Considerations
For Landowners in the 9 Villages:
Attend the Award Ceremony: December 24, 11 AM—don’t miss it. This is when you’ll get official information about your specific land parcel and compensation.
Verify Documentation: Ensure your land records are up-to-date. Any discrepancies in ownership or land area can delay compensation.
Understand Compensation Structure:
- Market value of land
- Solatium (additional compensation)
- Interest on delayed payment
- Rehabilitation and resettlement benefits (if applicable)
Tax Planning: Land sale proceeds have tax implications. Consult a CA to minimize tax liability—consider capital gains exemptions by reinvesting in specified assets.
Legal Advice: Don’t sign anything without understanding it. Get a lawyer to review all documents.
For Property Buyers:
Don’t Buy Directly from Landowners Now: Once land acquisition is announced, direct purchases from landowners can be legally complicated. Wait for GMADA’s official plot auctions.
Beware of Fraudulent Schemes: Whenever big projects are announced, fraudsters create fake booking schemes. Only deal with GMADA directly or authorized channel partners.
Check Adjacent Property Titles: If buying in nearby areas, verify that the property isn’t part of any future acquisition plans. Check GMADA’s master plan carefully.
No Advance Bookings: GMADA doesn’t do advance bookings or reservations. Anyone asking for advance payment for Eco City-3 plots is lying.
Infrastructure Connectivity: Why Location Matters
Eco City-3’s success hinges on connectivity. Here’s the infrastructure landscape:
Current Connectivity:
Chandigarh-Ludhiana Highway: Direct access via New Chandigarh, about 5-10 minutes from the project area.
Airport Road: Approximately 15-20 minutes depending on exact location within the township.
IT City: Mohali’s IT hub is 10-15 minutes away, creating ready demand for housing.
Chandigarh City Center (Sector 17): About 25-30 minutes via current roads.
Planned/Under Development:
Peripheral Road: Will significantly improve connectivity once completed.
Alternate Airport Road: New route being developed to ease congestion.
Potential Metro Extension: Long-term possibility (5-10+ years out) but would be transformative if it happens.
Road Widening Projects: Several ongoing to handle increased traffic as the region develops.
Environmental and Social Considerations
Large-scale land acquisitions have impacts beyond just real estate:
For Local Communities:
The 9 villages being acquired will see significant social changes. Farming communities will transition to urban lifestyles. While compensation provides financial resources, the cultural shift is significant.
Support Systems Needed:
- Skill development programs for displaced farmers
- Alternative livelihood training
- Community counseling and social support
- Preservation of cultural heritage where possible
Environmental Impact:
Converting 713 acres of agricultural land to urban development affects the environment:
- Loss of green cover
- Increased water demand
- Higher waste generation
- Traffic and pollution
Mitigation Measures:
- GMADA’s eco-friendly planning (green belts, sustainable water use)
- Environmental clearances required before development
- Monitoring and compliance during construction
As responsible real estate professionals and citizens, we should support development that balances growth with sustainability.
What’s Next? Key Dates and Milestones to Watch
December 24, 2025: Award announcement ceremony—landowner compensation details released.
Q1 2026: Expect compensation disbursement to begin for landowners who’ve completed documentation.
Q2-Q3 2026: Master plan and sector layout details should be publicly released. This is when you’ll see specific plots, roads, and amenity locations.
2027: Infrastructure development tenders likely to be floated. Watch for announcements about road construction, water supply contracts, etc.
2028-2029: First plot auctions expected. GMADA will announce residential and commercial plot schemes.
2030+: Early residents and businesses begin occupying the township.
Final Thoughts: The Long Game in Real Estate
The Eco City-3 land acquisition is exciting news, but it’s important to maintain perspective. This is a long-term development that will take years to fully materialize.
For investors, this represents an opportunity—but one that requires patience, research, and realistic expectations. Don’t expect overnight returns or quick flips.
For landowners in the affected villages, this is a life-changing event. Take your time, understand your rights, get professional advice, and make informed decisions about compensation and reinvestment.
For businesses, start planning now. The businesses that succeed in new townships are often the ones that did their groundwork years in advance.
For homebuyers, keep Eco City-3 on your radar, but don’t put your life on hold waiting for it. Buy where you can live comfortably now, and consider Eco City-3 as a future upgrade or investment opportunity.
The Tricity region is growing, and projects like Eco City-3 are shaping that growth. Whether you’re directly involved or just watching from the sidelines, this is a development worth following closely.
Want to explore property investment opportunities in New Chandigarh, Mullanpur, Landran, or other areas around Eco City-3? At Aqlet Realty, we provide expert guidance on emerging real estate opportunities in the Tricity region. Contact us for honest advice and comprehensive market insights.
Frequently Asked Questions About Eco City-3
When will plots be available for purchase in Eco City-3?
Realistically, not before 2028-2029. The land acquisition process needs to complete first, then master planning, infrastructure development, and finally plot auctions. Don’t fall for any “pre-launch” or “early booking” schemes—they’re likely fraudulent.
How much will plots cost in Eco City-3?
Too early to say definitively. Based on Eco City-1 and 2 pricing patterns, expect residential plots to start around ₹40-60 lakhs per Kanal, potentially higher for premium locations. Commercial plots will command premium pricing. Wait for official GMADA announcements.
Should I buy property in adjacent areas now?
If you have a long-term (5-10 year) investment horizon, yes—properties in Landran, Mullanpur, and existing New Chandigarh sectors will likely appreciate as Eco City-3 develops. But buy at fair market value, not inflated prices. Don’t overpay just because of Eco City-3 hype.
What compensation will landowners receive?
Details will be announced on December 24, 2025. Typically, landowners receive market value of land plus solatium (additional compensation) and interest. For agricultural land in this area, expect ₹1.5-3 crores per acre depending on location and land type, but wait for official announcements.
Can I buy land directly from farmers in these villages?
Not advisable once acquisition is announced. Land acquisition proceedings complicate direct sales. Even if legally possible, you risk getting caught in disputes. Better to wait for GMADA’s official plot auctions.
How does this compare to buying in existing Mohali sectors?
Existing established sectors (like Sector 70, 71, 125) offer immediate possession and developed infrastructure but at higher prices. Eco City-3 offers potentially lower entry prices but requires years of waiting. Your choice depends on whether you need a property now or can wait for returns.
Will there be commercial opportunities in Eco City-3?
Yes, GMADA typically allocates 10-15% of township area for commercial use—markets, SCOs, office spaces, etc. These plots are auctioned separately from residential plots. Commercial plots typically cost 2-3x residential rates but offer rental income potential.
What infrastructure will be built first?
Typically, roads, water supply, and electricity infrastructure come first (2-3 years), followed by residential plot development (3-5 years), with commercial areas and civic amenities (schools, hospitals) developing last (5-7 years) as population grows.
Is this a good investment for NRIs?
Potentially yes, for long-term investment (7-10+ years). However, NRIs should consider: (1) Long timeline before returns materialize, (2) Need for local management during development, (3) Tax implications in both India and country of residence, (4) Possible difficulty in monitoring construction progress from abroad.
What happens if GMADA delays the project?
Government projects in India often face delays—be mentally prepared for timelines extending 2-3 years beyond initial estimates. If buying in adjacent areas anticipating Eco City-3 development, ensure the property has intrinsic value even without the township. Don’t buy purely on speculation.