Encroachments in Anna Nagar: Homes Extend Ramps and Gardens onto Public Roads

In Chennai, residents of affluent areas such as Anna Nagar are encroaching on public land by extending their properties with staircases, gardens, and ramps, which reduces pedestrian space. This issue is particularly prevalent in areas like RA Puram, Boat Club Road, T Nagar, Kodambakkam, and Thiruvanmiyur. Civic activist Sandhya Vedullapalli from the Federation of Anna Nagar Residents Association points out that these encroachments, including mini lawns and flowerpots, block walkways and are not addressed as seriously as other types of encroachments. Property developer Yogesh T notes that many residents extend ramps beyond their property lines, often with the backing of local politicians. This creates problems for pedestrians, including wheelchair users and parents with strollers, who are forced onto the roads.

The Tamil Nadu Combined Development and Building Rules, 2019, mandate that buildings maintain setbacks from property boundaries, but these rules are often violated. Architect Murali M explains that ramps are built higher to accommodate road re-laying, while gardens outside premises, though aesthetically pleasing, should not impede pedestrians. A Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) official states that encroachments are removed on a case-by-case basis without formal notices if the land belongs to GCC. Mud from makeshift ramps can block stormwater drains, so concrete construction is advised.

GCC commissioner Dr. G S Sameeran has stated that permanent encroachments obstructing pathways will be identified and removed, with officers and engineers marking and removing these violations. The aim is to penalize violators to deter others from similar actions.