"Uncertainty Looms Over Six Greater Cochin Development Authority Projects"

The Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) had, in November of the previous year, promised to implement innovative practices such as land pooling and transferable development rights (TDR) to drive forward the extensive infrastructure projects on its agenda. However, the fate of at least six major projects, including the Chengamanad sports hub, stands in limbo as the state government appears reluctant to embrace the concept of land pooling and TDR practices.

Land pooling involves a collaborative effort among landowners who collectively contribute their land parcels for public projects and infrastructure development. After the rearrangement of plots and the establishment of infrastructure, the remaining land is returned to the original owners. While the landowner regains only 60% of their initial land, the value of the land surges to three or four times its original worth.

TDR practices are primarily aimed at conserving land with significant value, encompassing areas like farmlands, regions near protected natural and cultural assets, and sensitive zones. In exchange for these areas, the government issues TDR certificates, granting construction rights in other designated areas. These rights can be sold to builders, enabling them to obtain permits for construction in the designated receiving zones.

To implement TDR and land pooling practices, the government needs to amend The Kerala Town and Country Planning Act. While the state government initially supported the GCDA's initiative to adopt land pooling and TDR methods for its projects, recent reports suggest a shift in the government's stance, with hesitancy surrounding the implementation of these practices, according to GCDA officials.

ET