Sector 17 Chandigarh was designed by French architect Le Corbusier and was once considered a model of modern urban planning. However, over the years, the charm of Sector 17 has faded for several reasons:
- Lack of Maintenance: The maintenance of Sector 17 has been neglected over the years, leading to the deterioration of buildings and public spaces. The government has not invested enough resources to maintain the sector, resulting in broken sidewalks, dirty fountains, and unkempt parks.
- Traffic Congestion: Sector 17 was originally designed as a pedestrian-friendly zone, but over time, it has become increasingly congested with vehicular traffic. This has led to pollution, noise, and safety concerns, making it less enjoyable for people to spend time there.
- Rise of Shopping Malls: With the rise of shopping malls in the city, people have more options for shopping and entertainment. This has led to a decline in foot traffic and business for the shops in Sector 17.
- Lack of Innovation: The sector has not kept up with changing trends and tastes of the people. There is a lack of innovation in the shops and restaurants, making them less appealing to visitors.
- Security Concerns: In recent years, there have been incidents of theft and harassment in Sector 17, which has affected the perception of safety among visitors.
To revitalize Sector 17, there is a need for better maintenance, pedestrianization of the area, innovative business strategies, improved security, and a focus on creating a unique experience for visitors. The government and the private sector need to work together to bring back the charm of Sector 17 and make it a vibrant and attractive destination once again.