Hyderabad HMDA Shares Urban Planning Practices With Chennai
Hyderabad’s urban planning initiatives have drawn interest from the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA), whose delegation visited the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) to study its planning policies and practices.
The CMDA team visited HMDA as part of a study programme focused on understanding urban development regulations, digital planning systems and practices being implemented across Telangana. The delegation included N. Venkatesh, Special Secretary, Finance; R.K. Vedavati, Senior Planner, Master Plan Unit; and Senthil Kumaran, Assistant Planner. During discussions, the CMDA delegation examined several aspects of HMDA’s urban development framework, including Floor Space Index (FSI), density control mechanisms and building regulations. Officials also discussed Telangana’s Transferable Development Rights (TDR) policy, including recent amendments related to the issuance and utilisation of TDRs.
The visiting team also sought insights into the digital systems used by HMDA to process planning and building-related applications. The delegation examined the functioning of the BuildNow portal and Drawing Scrutiny System, along with the reconciliation process used during application processing. Officials discussed how drawing scrutiny reports are generated online, particularly for applications involving setback concessions and TDR utilisation. The digital approach offers a framework for improving transparency and streamlining planning-related processes.
HMDA Metropolitan Commissioner Sarfaraz Ahmad, Joint Metropolitan Commissioner and Secretary (FAC) Sreevatsa Kota, and other senior officials participated in the discussions. The study visit provided an opportunity for both metropolitan planning authorities to exchange experiences and understand different approaches to urban development. For Hyderabad, the interaction highlights the growing relevance of its planning systems and digital infrastructure as other cities examine practices that could support more efficient urban management.
