VR Punjab Mall, located in Sector 118, Mohali, India, has been closed indefinitely following structural safety concerns identified after the earthquake on April 3. VR Malwa Private Limited announced the closure after expert evaluations deemed the building unsafe for public use, prioritizing the safety of visitors, retailers, and staff. This decision has sparked frustration among tenants, many of whom criticized the lack of professional communication regarding the abrupt closure. Ajay Kumar, the store in-charge of Costa Coffee, highlighted the sudden decision's negative impact on their operations, as they were performing well prior to the closure.

The mall, once a vibrant retail destination, has seen a gradual decline in popularity due to several factors, including the exit of major brands like Zara and Decathlon, and increasing traffic congestion in the area. Despite this decline, the mall maintained a loyal customer base, particularly for entertainment and dining, with outlets like Reliance Smart Superstore and H&M continuing to attract visitors. VR Malwa clarified that the closure was based on assessments from both their operations team and an independent agency, emphasizing that reopening will only be considered after confirming the structure's safety through a thorough reassessment. Originally launched as North Country Mall in 2014, it was rebranded as VR Punjab after a significant acquisition in 2017, aiming to establish it as a flagship lifestyle destination.