Mohali, April 20: The board of VR Malwa Private Limited has halted all operations at VR Punjab Mall in Mohali after a safety audit determined the building is currently unfit for public use. The shutdown follows an evaluation of the structural impact caused by the earthquake earlier this month, which revealed significant safety vulnerabilities within the complex.
Company officials noted that the technical review recorded severe risks that could not be ignored. They asserted that the interest of public safety was the primary driver behind the move, leading to the immediate notification of all suppliers, shareholders, and retail partners.
“The decision to shut the mall to the public is being conveyed to all necessary local authorities,” the management affirmed. They declared that the premier shopping hub will remain inactive until a comprehensive evaluation confirms that the structure has been fully stabilized and meets all safety protocols for reopening.
The development has raised concerns regarding the local labor market, as the mall supports a vast network of employees and service providers. Despite the recent influx of new malls in Mohali, the loss of this established venue marks a significant disruption to the regional retail economy.
Industry observers maintained that the mall had been the subject of recent rumors concerning a change in use, though no official deal for a hospital conversion has materialized. For now, the administration stated that the focus remains entirely on the structural safety of the existing building to prevent any potential tragedy.
