The Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) is set to invest INR 100 crore in the development of lakefront areas in Chennai, aiming to create vibrant recreational spaces for residents. The project, which includes walkways, cycle tracks, butterfly parks, amphitheatres, miyawaki forests, and other entertainment facilities, will enhance the city’s blue-green infrastructure. Through an open design competition, an expert committee will choose six conceptual designs from a pool of 63 ideas, heralding a new era of eco-friendly urban spaces.
CMDA plans to allocate substantial funds for development of lakefront areas, ensuring that Chennaites can enjoy enhanced recreational amenities. The project will revitalise 10 lakes in Chennai, transforming them into vibrant and ecologically rich spaces for the public’s enjoyment.
To ensure success of the project, CMDA has collaborated with the Water Resources Department (WRD), Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC), and other local bodies. Among the 320 lakes in the Chennai Metropolitan Area, 10 lakes under the jurisdiction of the WRD have been selected for the initiative. Taking inspiration from Telangana’s successful development of localities around water bodies, CMDA aspires to replicate similar achievements in Chennai.
CMDA has invited architects to submit designs for the lakefront development project, receiving an overwhelming response of 63 proposals. An expert committee comprising officials from CMDA, WRD, environmental specialists, and other relevant stakeholders will carefully evaluate and select the six best designs. The chosen designs will then proceed to the tender process for further development.
Chennai’s plan to strengthen its blue-green infrastructure and create vibrant recreational spaces around 10 lakes has gained momentum with CMDA’s substantial investment. The open design competition and collaboration with various stakeholders reflect a commitment to sustainable urban development. Chennaites can anticipate an enhanced cityscape harmoniously integrating nature, recreation, and community engagement as the project progresses.
