CMDA Charts 20-Year Urban Makeover for Chengalpet

Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) has released far-reaching plans to make Chengalpet a smart, green, and inclusive town. The emerging master plan that will direct the town’s development from 2025 to 2045 aims at augmenting underlying infrastructures, improving connectivity, and improving local economic development.

Currently marred by devastated roads, mismanaged trash, and the lack of underground drainage, Chengalpet is now under the focus of a huge planning initiative.

Currently marred by devastated roads, mismanaged trash, and the lack of underground drainage, Chengalpet is now under the focus of a huge planning initiative. The CMDA has invited tenders to prepare a Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP) for “Chengalpet New Town” for 60 villages in Chengalpet, Thirukazhukundram, and Thiruporur taluks.

“The objective is to lower dependence on Chennai by creating jobs locally and promoting regional development,” a CMDA official explained.

Some of the salient features of the plan are pedestrian-friendly roads, green mobility systems, designed residential areas, lively commercial areas, and public open spaces — all while preserving Chengalpet’s local identity. The project will also adhere to contemporary urban planning concepts such as land use optimisation, transit-oriented development, and environmental conservation.

Technology will be at the core of the exercise with GIS mapping and data analysis employed to monitor flood areas, cultural heritage sites, transport corridors, and land use. “Flood zone mapping is crucial,” said an urban planner. “Construction around water bodies needs strict regulation.”

Stakeholder consultations and public workshops will ensure community participation. The plan also focuses on climate resilience, water conservation, renewable energy, and affordable housing.

Local voices are already weighing in. E. Shankar, district secretary of CPI(M), urged that the plan address urgent civic issues. “Chengalpet lacks drainage, clean water supply, and has broken roads. These must be fixed while creating jobs for locals.”

Urban expert K. P. Subramanian welcomed the move but warned, “The existing master plan must be denotified first. Implementation not just planning is key.”

Residents’ groups echoed the need for careful planning. “Connectivity, vendor regulation, and inclusion in the mobility plan are essential,” said J.M.S. Nagarjunan of the Alliance of Residents Welfare Associations (AORWA).

The CMDA’s plan marks a crucial step towards reshaping Chengalpet from a transit corridor to a thriving urban district.