Plans to redesign roads in Kodambakkam, Teynampet, Adyar zones etc by GCC
Posted on: 28/May/2019 10:08:01 AM
Chennai based Ripon Buildings would be buzzing with activity today as a meeting would be held there. In the meeting, 10 international designers and 5 local designers would be making their presence felt.
The important piece of information is GCC or Greater Chennai Corporation is getting both international as well as national level architects and consultants to redesign about 1000 km roads in places such as Kodambakkam, Teynampet and Adyar Zones covering approximately 70 square km.
It must be noted that in the 2013 civic body made news when it launched its non-motorised transport policy and has redesigned about 100 km of Chennai city roads since then. Important point is under the Smart City mission, another 25km of Chennai roads are being redesigned.
The civic body now after 5 years is planning to expand the NMT policy by launching a separate project to create city wide network for cycling and walking. These streets would be called as Mega Streets or Complete Streets and it would have many features like wide and continuous footpaths, safe pedestrian crossings, dedicated cycle tracks, conveniently placed bus stops, clearly designated on-street parking and properly scaled carriageways etc.
Consultants would be involved in several works like studying the current projects plus conducting surveys, collecting data etc. The important point is land use pattern and road usage etc would be utilized for the above purpose by the consultants. Detailed design and drawings that would cater to the local needs would also be made by the consultants. Feed backs from women, cyclists, children and other road users would be given importance.
It is worthy to mention here that the designs would not only be inclusive for older aged, children and differently able persons but the designs also would showcase the Chennai city’s history and culture. The point is importance would be given to the greenways present around the water bodies. It is revealed that this project would focus on the streets requirements. It means if there are many schools in the street and more cyclists using the space then separate cycle tracks would be created.
As per Mr. L. Nandhakumar, chief engineer, bus route roads and special projects, GCC, the existing parks and playgrounds would be integrated in the design if there is a need for public space. He then mentioned that this upcoming meeting would be to make the designers understand about the need to study Chennai city and create designs that are specific to the requirements.
