TNUHDB identifies 20 sites for reconstruction across State; appeals to residents of dilapidated tenements to vacate

The Tamil Nadu Urban Habitat Development Board (TNUHDB) has selected 20 locations statewide for rebuilding aged tenements between 2026 and 2027. The organization intends to construct greenfield settlement zones in Perambur and Madurantakam. TNUHDB Chairperson Ku. Pa. Krishnan informed journalists that the reconstruction efforts involve dismantling existing aging tenements and erecting new housing units in their place.

Residents are expected to return once the work is finished. The Board has identified 70 sites for reconstruction throughout the State, which will be executed in stages. Additionally, the TNUHDB urged residents of 23 dilapidated tenements to temporarily vacate their homes due to the impending northeast monsoon. Out of the 23 tenements mentioned in their safety advisory, 14 are earmarked for reconstruction this year, with a Government Order expected in the coming week.

The other nine have been given higher priority for safety during the monsoon due to their poor condition. These include Srinivasapuram, V.O.C. Nagar, Old Block Vyasarpadi, Nagooran Thottam, Annathai Kuppam, Nallankuppam (Old), N.V.N. Nagar (Phase-II), West Cemetery Road, Pallakumaniyam, Kabali Thottam, and Rukmani Nagar. Mr. Krishnan stressed that the Board would rebuild structurally fragile buildings, but the cooperation of residents in moving out of their properties was crucial.

He cited Srinivasapuram, where houses built in the 1970s have deteriorated over time, as an example, where the Board is prepared to rebuild and return the houses to the residents. Two new settlement sites will be established in Perambur and Madurantakam, with Mullai Nagar designated for the Perambur project. Both projects are projected to encompass over 450 housing units.

A Government Order will be issued in the coming weeks, according to Ramana Saraswathi, Managing Director of TNUHDB. The proposed constructions are envisioned as ground-plus-six-story buildings intended for eligible families residing on vulnerable and undesirable poromboke land, including flood-prone areas lacking essential infrastructure.

Mr. Krishnan also discussed the infrastructure challenges at two housing projects initiated during the previous DMK government in Dindigul district. At Oddanchatram, 480 housing units were built at a cost of ₹66.23 crore. "The Board is now investing an additional ₹7.14 crore to establish drinking water connectivity at the site. Nearly 90% of the work is completed, but the site suffers from inadequate road connectivity.

Additional amenities will need to be addressed to make such locations habitable," he explained. He also mentioned a similar scenario at Keeranur in Dindigul district, where 432 houses were built at a cost of ₹57.04 crore. "Similar housing projects across the State will be assessed for their location, infrastructure facilities, and suitability for habitation. Action will be taken if any irregularities are discovered," he added.