Ludhiana, Nov. 15 -- The state irrigation department on Friday rejected the no-objection certificate (NOC) sought by Ludhiana municipal corporation for a proposed food vending zone under the Sidhwan Canal flyover, citing safety and zoning violations. Officials stated that no permission can be granted for construction or commercial activity along the protected canal stretch.

The municipal corporation had floated tenders for the project three days earlier, even before receiving approvals. The Rs.5-crore project includes plans for 42 smart shops, parking space, washrooms and other basic facilities. It falls within the protected canal zone, where permanent structures are prohibited.

This is not the first time the project has faced hurdles. ...