CHENNAI: The next time you step into George Town and Triplicane, things might look a bit different — much more neat and eco-friendly. The Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) is set to carry out a pilot study to redevelop the two localities, following recommendations of Justice Rajeswaran Committee to work out guidelines for redevelopment.
The purpose of the study will be to formulate guidelines and evolve efficient measures to implement redevelopment projects in Chennai Metropolitan Area, sources said. The guidelines are generally for area redevelopment which involve demolition and reconstruction of private and government properties, including reconstitution of plot, better circulation by way of new roads or link roads and provision for public amenities, both physical and social.
George Town, which is characterised by dense development with a density of 331 persons per hectare, has less than one per cent of buildings built without violations of norms.
The objectives of the redevelopment proposal are to restructure and re-plan the area, making it environmental-friendly as well as upgrading its physical and social infrastructure by providing more open spaces and community facilities.
As per the Terms of Reference suggested by CMDA, the study will be carried out by a five-member team that will focus on building uses and ownership details in the two areas besides assessing the existing road network, its width and physical constraints and connectivity with adjoining roads.
It will also work out a hierarchy of roads based on future development, besides suggesting development regulations including incentives (amendments to development regulations) to implement redevelopment in study area.
According to sources, most of the buildings in George Town have structural irregularities and are unsafe structures. Around 60 per cent of the buildings are more than 50 years old and need immediate attention by way of redevelopment.
All existing structures have been constructed in small plots with high-density development. As such, there is a need to reassemble plots to provide better facilities which will enhance the environmental quality and ensure planned facilities.
The redevelopment has been suggested by the committee after going through data gathered from a survey carried out by Chennai Corporation and Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority.