CMDA to E-Auction Plots Along Outer Ring Road in January
The Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) has announced its plans to conduct e-auctioning of plots along the Chennai Outer Ring Road (CORR) in January 2024. This initiative marks a significant step towards transforming the 62-kilometer corridor into a thriving economic zone, with nearly 80% of the master plan for the CORR completed, according to CMDA officials.
The CMDA envisions the CORR as a vibrant economic corridor featuring diverse developments, including premium housing, industries, warehousing facilities, hotels, and urban forests. The areas along the CORR, such as Minjur, Red Hills, Poonamallee, and Vandalur, will be integrated into the Third Master Plan, ensuring systematic growth.
Although CORR was initially part of the First Master Plan, the areas along the corridor remained underdeveloped for years. The new initiative aims to unlock the economic potential of these zones, focusing on infrastructure nodes such as the Parandur airport, Minjur port, Meenambakkam Airport, and Kilambakkam terminus. Select parcels of land along the 20-kilometer stretch between Poonamallee and Vandalur will be offered through e-auctions.
Recognizing the projected 80% population growth in the region, CMDA has emphasized the importance of careful planning before densification. A comprehensive flood drainage plan is being developed, including flood vulnerability mapping and waterbody studies to manage runoff effectively. Additionally, CMDA has identified eight locations for creating a grid of roads to promote uniform growth in the area.
The development strategy also includes distinct plans for key areas:
- Poonamallee: Positioned as a business district and multi-modal connectivity hub, benefiting from its proximity to the Bengaluru highway, metro connectivity, and the planned Thirumazhisai New Town.
- Vandalur: Set to evolve into a cosmopolitan hub.
- Minjur: Planned as an industrial and multi-modal hub with port-based development.
- Red Hills: Envisioned as an eco-sensitive zone with urban forests.
Ajit Chordia, Chairman of the Indian Green Building Council (Chennai Chapter) and Vice-Chairman of the CII Chennai Zonal Council, noted that development along the CORR will significantly drive urbanization in adjoining areas. He emphasized that the concentrated release of land parcels could encourage private landowners to actively participate in the development process.
Pattabiram resident T. Sadagopan suggested extending the proposed metro line from Koyambedu to Avadi to Nemilichery on the CORR, which could enhance connectivity by linking five industrial estates and improving accessibility.
The CMDA’s e-auction initiative aims to accelerate the transformation of the CORR into a robust economic zone. With its strategic planning, focus on sustainable infrastructure, and efforts to involve the private sector, the project is expected to bring significant benefits to Chennai and its surrounding regions.
Image source- freepik.com
