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Executive Summary

The urban corridor surrounding Chennai Central plays a crucial role in the economic, cultural,
and social landscape of the city. The Chennai Central stretch development, with its ambitious

goal of creating a large interchange hub within a half-kilometer. This visionary project seeks
to redefine urban connectivity by offering users a variety of transport options, with a keen

focus on optimizing pedestrian and vehicular movement, ultimately enhancing walkability
Thesis Report V-SPARC VIT
through an intricate network of subways beneath the Grand Southern Trunk Road. The final
phase of this development includes the construction of a 27-storey building opposite to

Chennai Central Station. This building is intended to accommodate a diverse range of
functions, including offices, restaurants, and retail spaces, serving as potential sources of

revenue for the Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL). Positioned at the core of the entire
central stretch, this proposal finds itself nestled between three major railway stations, with the
Central metro running beneath it, establishing it as a pivotal interchange node. The

Buckingham Canal, flowing to the east of the site, enhances the overall beauty and potential
of the location.

However, this thesis embarks on a critical exploration on what can be apt for the context and
hoe efficiently can it contribute to the public. The central stretch, steeped in history with over

20 buildings dating back to the 18th century, confronts the shadows of heritage activism,
evident in the loss of landmarks like the Moore Market. This underscores the need for a

mixed-use public development that not only preserves historical values but also symbolizes
the city's modernism thus can become a symbolic landmark in the city's future. The proposed
alternative envisions a people-centric design aligned with Transit-Oriented Development

(TOD) concepts, integrating the Park Station into the development plan. By prioritizing
mixed-use spaces that reflect both heritage values and contemporary growth, the research
aims to establish a landmark that resonates with the city's rich history while fostering a

sustainable and vibrant future. This approach not only addresses the need for urban
development but also aligns with the broader vision of creating a balanced, inclusive, and

culturally significant urban environment for Chennai's residents.

Keywords: (TOD)- Transit Oriented Development, (CMRL) -Chennai Metro Rail Limited

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