TN draws on global examples to help develop Chengalpet

Chennai: To shape the next phase of urban expansion in Chengalpet district, planners are drawing lessons from Saudi Arabia and other international models. The efforts is to create a GIS-based masterplan for Madhuranthakam and Thirukazhukundram.The Directorate of Town and Country Planning (DTCP) is creating the masterplan for the towns, a key extension of Chennai Metropolitan Region (CMR). The combined planning area spans 46.26sqkm, with Madhuranthakam accounting for the larger share. The process will take 24 months, involving satellite mapping, surveys, stakeholder consultations, and scenario-based planning before a final statutory plan is approved.With strong connectivity through highways, rail networks, and proximity to the port and airport, planners see the region as a critical node for future urbanization. Madhuranthakam, currently an agrarian town, is being considered for a proposed ‘global city'. Thirukazhukundram is a major pilgrimage centre with tourism-driven activity. "We are cherry-picking what works best from each model. From Saudi cities, we are adopting structured zoning and tightly planned urban growth. From NEOM, the focus is on data-driven, GIS-based planning where everything—land use, transport, and infrastructure—is integrated. From Iraq's regional plans, the emphasis is on long-term, balanced development that connects towns with their rural hinterland," said an official.D Yuvaraj, Thirukazhukundram town panchayat chairman, said that there is a need for a good grid of roads and reliable water supply. "We need higher FSI along the transit-oriented corridor," he added."There is a need for intentionally planned development. The impetus for growth should be identified, and strategies, including transportation and connectivity to other major towns and cities, should be arrived at," said Pavithra Sriram, an urban planner.Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with EId ul fitr 2026 wishes, messages and quotes !