Soon, building plan approval in 30 days

First among the 66 announcements made following the debate on demand for grants for his department in the House, Municipal Administration and Water Supply Minister SP Velumani said land owners and builders could consider the plan approved and start construction work in conformity with rules if the local bodies do not dispose of their application in 30 days. 

Stating that the reforms also include vesting additional powers on local bodies to approve building plans, Velumani said that powers would be devolved to local bodies to accord planning permission to residential buildings measuring more than 4,000 sqft. 

The minister also informed the House that urban local bodies in other districts would also be empowered to sanction up to eight plots, on the lines of urban local bodies within CMDA limits in the state capital. As per the announcement, local bodies, which have thus far been issuing planning permission only for commercial buildings up to 2,000sqft, would also be empowered to sanction commercial, public and special buildings.

Velumani also made some noteworthy announcements to ease mobility and traffic flow in T Nagar business district. A new pedestrian complex comprising wide walkways, median, dedicated bus and two-wheeler lanes, modern lavatories, potable drinking water and first aid centres would be constructed at a cost of Rs 20 crore at Pondy Bazar. 

The minister also proposed a Rs 36.50 crore multi-level parking facility measuring 1,488 sq metres at Thanigachalam Road intersection in T Nagar. Funded jointly by the Centre and State, the parking facility would comprise a couple of underground, one ground floor and five elevated levels which could accommodate 500 bikes and 200 cars.