CMDA delegation visits HMDA to study urban planning initiatives

Metro India News | Hyderabad

A delegation from the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) visited the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) on Thursday as part of a study visit to understand and learn from the initiatives, policies and best practices being adopted by HMDA in the field of urban planning and development. The visiting delegation comprised N. Venkatesh, Special Secretary, Finance; R.K. Vedavati, Senior Planner, Master Plan Unit (MPU), CMDA; and Senthil Kumaran, Assistant Planner, MPU, CMDA.

During the visit, the delegation held discussions with HMDA officials on various aspects of urban development regulations and planning practices, particularly the Floor Space Index (FSI), density control mechanisms and building regulations being implemented in the State of Telangana. The delegation also sought to understand the Transferable Development Rights (TDR) policy, including the recent amendments issued by the Government relating to the issuance and utilization of TDRs. The delegation also examined the functioning of the BuildNow portal, Drawing Scrutiny System and reconciliation process, including the manner in which drawing scrutiny reports are generated online while processing applications involving setback concessions and TDR utilization.

Sarfaraz Ahmad, Metropolitan Commissioner, HMDA and Sreevatsa Kota, Joint Metropolitan Commissioner (General) & Secretary (FAC), HMDA, along with senior officials participated in the meeting.  The study visit provided an opportunity for an exchange of knowledge and experiences between the planning authorities and enabled the visiting team to gain insights into various initiatives in HMDA.