In Mohali, the inaugural ceremony of the Punjab Forest Complex in Sector 68 is set to be officiated by Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal this Saturday, marking the first-ever implementation of cutting-edge “green building design” principles in the region. The new facility will serve as the state headquarters for the Forests and Wildlife Preservation department, consolidating various wings currently operating from different rented spaces in Chandigarh.

Impressively, the construction of the complex, hailed as a noteworthy achievement, overcame significant technical challenges due to its unique curvilinear design in both plan and elevation, resulting in distinct designs for each floor. Commencing with the laying of the foundation stone by Badal on October 7, 2008, the civil construction work for the basement, ground, and seven stories was swiftly completed in record time.

Aligned with “green building design” principles, the Forest Complex prioritizes energy conservation. The façade features high-performance glass, enabling ample light penetration while mitigating heat. Moreover, the integration of sensors ensures the automatic shutdown of air-conditioners and lights in unoccupied areas. A notable feature contributing to natural cooling is the expansive central courtyard featuring a cascading waterfall.

The construction process, a testament to collaborative efforts, involved a workforce of over 200 skilled individuals working with urgency to bring the project to fruition. The result is a state-of-the-art building that not only meets functional requirements but also sets a precedent for sustainable and environmentally conscious architectural practices in the region.