Punjab's real estate sector is facing significant challenges, with over 1,500 unresolved complaints pending at the Punjab Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) since 2021. Despite the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016, which mandates the resolution of complaints within six months, persistent project delays and inadequate accountability from developers have caused financial losses and mental distress for homebuyers. The situation is exemplified by the GBP Group's alleged departure from India in 2022, leaving over 2,500 investors stranded due to stalled projects like Camelia in Kharar and GBP Centrum in Zirakpur, which have been under construction since 2016 without delivering possession to buyers.

The official data indicates that of the 1,953 registered projects, 825 have lapsed, signifying that developers failed to complete them despite having mandatory registration. Complaints predominantly involve delayed possession, non-payment of penalties, and stalled construction. The RERA framework, initiated in September 2017, aimed to enhance transparency and protect buyers, yet enforcement remains inconsistent. Advocates argue for a structured mediation system to expedite dispute resolution, while experts call for enhanced enforcement powers and digitized complaint processes. Although provisions exist to hold promoters accountable, their effective implementation remains a critical challenge.