Among the oldest quarters of the city, George Town is set to be revamped. In another 10 days, Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) will launch a year-long survey to redevelop one of Chennai’s most densely populated and unorganised areas.
The survey will enumerate illegal constructions, total floor space area, population density, condition of buildings and fire safety violations. It will calculate the volume of sewage discharged by households and the amount of water supplied by Metrowater.
Among the oldest quarters of the city, George Town is set to be revamped
An official from the housing and urban development department said the purpose of the study was to redevelop the area without displacing the local population. “The sewerage systems, drinking water supply and power connections are stressed. We need to draw a roadmap to redevelop the area,” the official said. Meetings with resident welfare associations would be organised to explain the plan and facilitate enumeration, the official said.
Three wards, which have a mix of residential, mixed-residential and commercial zones, will be surveyed. The Centre has sanctioned `40 lakh for the study under the AMRUT scheme of Union ministry of housing and urban affairs.
In 2014, a survey by Chennai Corporation found that of the 11,300 buildings on roads that are less than 9m wide, only 72 were constructed as per the planning permission. The report submitted to the Madras high court said that more than 99% of buildings in George Town were constructed either without an approved plan or in violation of rules.
The survey will focus on allowing reconstruction of unauthorised buildings such that they adhere to the Tamil Nadu Combined Development and Building Rules. “A specific provision will be designed for the purpose wherein an exclusive code that suits the character of the area will be created. Fire safety measures in commercial buildings will be assessed,” the official said.
A report will be prepared offering suggestions to Metrowater, Tangedco and the corporation on relaying sewer lines, augmenting Metrowater supply networks, and setting up power sub-stations.
With several heritage structures being razed due to poor maintenance and to cash in on their real estate value, old buildings in the area will be enumerated. Writer and heritage enthusiast R Venkatesh said heritage structures are the most vulnerable as landlords can utilise the space to develop real estate. “Funds must be allocated to protect heritage buildings that are largely with religious or quasi-religious bodies in George Town,” he said.
Urban planners said participation of the people was crucial for the success of such redevelopment plans. “A perception survey to understand priorities, problems, requirements and willingness of the local communities in general, and land and building owners in particular has to precede the redevelopment plan,” said K P Subramanian, former professor of urban engineering, Anna University. “No redevelopment plan can be implemented without the active participation of local communities,” he said.