State Withdraws 2023 Notification for Kanchipuram Urban Development

In a decisive move on August 31, the Tamil Nadu government revoked the 2023 notification that had set the legal foundation for the Kanchipuram New Town project. The revocation, issued through an order on August 10, 2026, effectively cancels the authority previously given to the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) to prepare a detailed development and heritage restoration plan for the period 2025‑2045.

The original scheme, unveiled by the former AIADMK administration in February 2023, sought to merge 18 revenue villages into a 62.78‑square‑kilometre urban expanse, extending the city’s footprint toward National Highway 48. The plan promised enhanced transport links, upgraded civic amenities, and a more systematic land‑use strategy.

Officials highlighted growing concerns over unplanned commercial growth, escalating traffic congestion, and the mounting burden on public utilities. Heritage advocates also warned that the rapid urbanisation could jeopardise Kanchipuram’s historic temples and traditional quarters.

The cancellation follows the state’s earlier decision to drop the Parandur greenfield airport project and to annul a ₹205.89 crore work order for a global sports city in Semenchery. While the airport proposal is shelved, the sports‑city initiative is slated for a redesign on a larger land parcel.

The removal of the notification adds a layer of uncertainty to Tamil Nadu’s new‑town policy framework. The 2026‑27 housing and urban development policy note presented in the assembly omits references to previously proposed development plans for towns such as Tirumazhai, Minjur, and Chengalpattu, raising questions about the future direction of the state’s urban expansion strategy.