The Hindu 06.12.2013
Pedestrian plaza project: design finalised
The Chennai Corporation has received the final design of the pedestrian plaza in T. Nagar from architects of the project.
At
a meeting of the sub-committee on non-motorised transport of Chennai
Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority on Thursday, the consultant
submitted the final design. The civic body plans to float bids for
development of the plaza this month after getting a nod from the State
government.
The pedestrian plaza will cover 1400 metres of Thyagaraya Road from Bashyam Road near Panagal Park to Anna Salai.
The
plaza will have space for seating and emerge as a busy intersection of
art and commerce where buildings would be required to have animated
electric, neon, illuminated signs and news scrolls.
Battery-operated cars
“The
work will be completed one year after the work order is issued. The
intention is to promote non-motorised transport. The pedestrian plaza
will have space for environment-friendly attractions, greenery and
public utilities including toilets. The consultant has suggested
battery-operated cars for assisting the elderly and persons with
disability,” said an official of Chennai Corporation.
The
pedestrian plaza will be at least 22 metres in width with two lanes
carved out for public transport in a 7-metre-wide northern portion of
Thyagaraya Road. The entire southern side will be for pedestrians. Large
establishments in the city will be invited to highlight various
commercial themes unique to the city.
“The plaza will
have special seating for various art events. Pedestrians visiting will
also be able to find stillness and calm amid the city rush,” said the
official.
The Corporation has firmed up the plan
for ‘semi-pedestrianisation’ of Thyagaraya Road as part of the makeover
for T. Nagar proposed years ago. Encroachments on pavement were removed
recently.