The Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) is embarking on an ambitious project to revitalize two of Chennai’s most crucial roadways: Anna Salai and Old Mahabalipuram Road (OMR), also known as Rajiv Gandhi Salai. This initiative involves creating detailed Local Area Plans (LAPs) aimed at enhancing the liveability and sustainability of these vital corridors.
A Local Area Plan is a strategic framework for guiding the planned and sustainable development of a specific area within a local authority. It outlines strategies for land use, infrastructure development, and overall growth.
The main idea is to create plans for Anna Salai and OMR, and the areas around them, so that there are a mix of homes, shops, and offices all in the same place. This means making busy, easy-to-get-to spots near where buses and trains are, with spaces enough to walk and cycle. This will hopefully make things healthier and better for the environment.
Specific Zones Under the LAP Initiative
The CMDA’s plan outlines the specific geographical areas that will be covered by the LAPs. For Anna Salai, the plan will address the 12.5-kilometer stretch extending from Omandurar Government Estate Junction to Kathipara Junction, with an influence zone of 500 meters on either side. Similarly, OMR will see a LAP developed for the 10-kilometer section between SRP Tools Junction and Shollinganallur, also encompassing a 500-meter radius on both sides.
Transit-Oriented Development as the Core Strategy
This project is a key element of the CMDA’s broader Transit Oriented Development (TOD) strategy. TOD aims to stimulate growth and development along Chennai’s major transportation routes, including roads, suburban trains, and the metro system. A significant aspect of the proposed TOD is an increase in the Floor Space Index (FSI) along these corridors. This will permit the construction of taller buildings, thereby increasing residential capacity and encouraging greater reliance on public transportation. For property owners and developers in these areas, understanding the implications of FSI is crucial, and services like Building Plan Approval offered by Verified.RealEstate can provide valuable assistance.
Why These Roads Are Important
The CMDA has highlighted the strategic importance of Anna Salai and OMR in Chennai’s socio-economic fabric. Anna Salai is a major commercial hub, encompassing key areas like Guindy, Saidapet, and Teynampet, and benefits from extensive bus and metro rail connectivity, including 10 metro stations. OMR, on the other hand, is the heart of Chennai’s IT and ITeS sector, featuring well-established residential and commercial areas such as Perungudi and Sholinganallur. While currently served by the MRTS for a portion, OMR is also slated for significant metro rail expansion with a 20-kilometer line and 19 stations planned from Nehru Nagar to Siruseri Sipcot. For those looking to invest in these dynamic areas, exploring property options through platforms like Verified.RealEstate’s Buy service can be a valuable step.
Community Input and Governmental Support
As part of the LAP preparation process, the CMDA will conduct household surveys in the affected localities to gather insights into the needs and aspirations of the residents. This participatory approach underscores the commitment to creating plans that are responsive to the community. Furthermore, the state government has already designated MRTS and suburban rail corridors as TOD zones, offering a 50% reduction in premium FSI charges. This policy support, building on a previous increase in base FSI in 2019, signals a clear direction towards higher-density development along transit lines. Future policy announcements are expected to extend TOD designation and potentially increase FSI along major roads and metro lines, making it essential for property stakeholders to stay informed about [Government Policies and Regulations].
CMDA’s Objectives for Anna Salai and OMR
The CMDA’s primary objective is to create more liveable spaces along Anna Salai and OMR by promoting integrated, mixed-use developments that are well-served by public transportation.
Action Plan Highlights
The core of the initiative is the implementation of the Transit Oriented Development (TOD) scheme along major roads. The LAPs will cover a 500-meter zone on both sides of the designated stretches of Anna Salai and OMR. Increasing the Floor Space Index (FSI) in these areas will facilitate the construction of taller buildings, accommodating more residents and encouraging the use of public transport.