Chandigarh, March 27 -- After nearly 17 years of delays, cost overruns and incomplete construction, Panjab University's long-awaited multi-purpose auditorium is finally set to see its first official use - an alumni meet of the University Institute of Engineering and Technology (UIET) called "Sangam" on Friday.

The event marks the beginning of the auditorium's phased operationalisation, with vice-chancellor Renu Vig having earlier indicated it would serve as a test run ahead of a formal inauguration, the date of which has yet to be announced. UT chief secretary H Rajesh Prasad will preside over Friday's programme.

Situated on the south campus in Sector 25, the auditorium has a seating capacity of approximately 2,500, with current operati...