The conversion policy announced by the Chandigarh Administration in 2005 has led to rents rising manifold in the area. The policy allows the use of premises in the area for commercial activities by payment of conversion charges. The owners, sensing an opportunity, decided to jack up rentals.
There are about 400 micro and small units in the industrial area phase I and phase II. Most of these operate from rented accommodation and are finding it difficult to cope with the increased rentals. About 200 units have also been
served notices to vacate the premises.
Entrepreneurs fear they may be asked to vacate the premises any moment. An entrepreneur, on the condition of anonymity, said the landlord stopped giving him the rent receipt a couple of months back. This, he added, was a clear indication of landlords