Third Master Plan for Chennai Likely to Take Six More Months

The Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority`s (CMDA) Third Master Plan for Chennai is expected to take at least six more months to be finalised, as inter-departmental consultations and statutory procedures are still in progress.

The draft plan for 2026–2047, originally expected in January 2026, is currently being reviewed by various government departments. Once the review is completed, it will be submitted to the State Government for approval.

After government approval, the draft will be released for a mandatory two-month public consultation, allowing residents and stakeholders to submit suggestions and objections. The revised plan will then be sent for final approval before being officially notified.

The master plan will also focus on environmental conservation, including the protection of lakes, forests, parks, open spaces, and the development of additional green infrastructure.

The proposed expansion of the Chennai Metropolitan Area from 1,189 sq. km to 5,904 sq. km will enable better long-term urban planning, including wider roads, improved zoning regulations, and planned development in newly added areas. Planning permissions in these areas will continue under the existing system until the required legal amendments are completed.