COIMBATORE REGIONAL PLAN - 2038 -...

2038

DRAFT REPORT

COIMBATORE REGIONAL PLAN - 2038 Report

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Acknowledgement

School of Planning and Architecture, Bhopal an Institution of National

Importance under the Ministry of Human Resource Development, Government

of India heartily acknowledges Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Internationale

Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH (German Technical Cooperation) team headed

by Mr. Georg Jahnsen, Mr. Felix Knopf, Mr. Abhishek Agarwal, Mrs. Tanaya

Saha, Mr. Shriman Narayan, Mr. Kishore for giving us an opportunity to work

on the Coimbatore regional plan preparation in Tamil Nadu.

We would like to thank the Government of Tamil Nadu, its Secretary

Department of Housing and Urban Development and the State Planning

Commission for extending their full support in facilitating the whole data

collection and discussion process.

A special thanks to the all four district collectors: Dr. S. Prabhakar I.A.S. –

Erode, Thiru T.N. Hariharan I.A.S. – Coimbatore, Thiru Dr. K.S. Palanisamy

I.A.S. – Tiruppur, Tmt.J. Innocent Divya I.A.S. – The nilgiris, for their support

and immense effort in coordinating with the concerned line departments for

providing data, during their tenure. The contribution of Directorate of Town

and Country Planning of Chennai, in this endeavor, in the form of invaluable

support and inspiration during the field visit, was commendable.

Our sincere thanks all the active Organizations (Profit and Non Profit) like:

OlirumErodu Foundation- Erode, TEA-Tiruppur, CII and DIY – Tiruppur,

SACON – Coimbatore, WWF-INDIA-Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu Agriculture

University – Coimbatore and Tribal Research Centre – The Nilgiris, for giving

us an insight about the district and participating in the discussion regarding the

future vision for the Coimbatore region, in Tamil Nadu. We specially

acknowledge the people of all four District for their cooperation and support

during data collection and primary surveys.

SPA, Bhopal is obliged to acknowledge the efforts and motivation of all the

faculty and officials, for administering and enabling the study. Without the

relentless efforts of students: Bachelors of Planning (2015-2019), Masters in

Environmental Planning (2017-2019) and Masters of Planning - Integrated

(2018-2020), preparation of the Coimbatore Region Plan would not have been

possible.


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We owe our responsibility for all the omissions and commissions in the report.


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Executive Summary The Regional Plan 2038 for the Coimbatore Region is prepared to cater the future

requirements of the region as the development of the region as a major industrial

center. The Region consists of Coimbatore, Erode, Tiruppur and The Nilgiris district.

Each of this district has its own priority and focus in terms of development. While

Coimbatore, Erode and Tiruppur are part of a greater urban agglomeration of

Coimbatore to Salem, where Coimbatore – the second major urban agglomeration of

Tamil Nadu exist, Tiruppur and Erode adjoins Coimbatore in terms of urban

continuum. The planning of these sub regions are done by means of analyzing the

existing situation, identifying the issues and challenges at the ground level and then

integrating the proposals with the respective sub regions.

The total area of Coimbatore Region is 14% of the state and accommodates 12% of

the state‟s population. The Regional Plan preparation aims to develop the Coimbatore

Region in an integrated manner focusing on the economic growth engines of the sub

regions. The vision of the plan is to develop the region in a sustainable approach

focusing on the economic development in accordance with the environmentally

sensitive nature of the region.

The report studies the regional setting and connectivity of the region with the

neighboring districts and states focusing on the major transport corridors and the

highways important for bringing the development in the region. It also explains the

need of preparation of the regional plan, focusing on the highlights of the Coimbatore-

Nilgirs regional plan prepared in 1974 and predicting the urbanization of the

Coimbatore region for the future. This section also talks about the growth of the

region with the establishment of the industries and the future investments which will

further initiate the development in this region. A brief introduction of demographic

profile is given looking into the share of the region with the state and the constituents

of the sub region as well. A brief analysis of the regional economy is done

highlighting the share of the region in the GDP of the state focusing on each sector‟s

contribution and also the share of the work force involved in hsese sectors. The region

is sensitive in terms of the environmentally fragile areas as it comes under the

Nilgiris Biosphere Reserve and the Sathyamangalam Tiger reserve also housing the

important rivers such as Moyar, Bhavani Noyyal and Cauvery. A brief introduction is

also given about the major elephant corridors present in the region which makes the

region highly eco sensitive. The vision and the methodology adopted for the region

focuses on the sustainable economic development of the region which is explained

clearly in the subsequent section. The existing settlement structure of the region

explains the Class I to Class VI cities and their growth. The growth rate of the

settlements is studied from 1991 to 2041 and the future population is projected based

on the different methods adopted depending upon the nature of population growth.

The induced population is then distributed based on the growth of the region as per


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the investments proposed to obtain the proposed settlement structure of the region for

2041. The Institutional set up of the region constitutes the Acts related with the

formation of the regional plan, the provisions and the institutions involved in the

preparation of the plan and the gap reflecting in the implementation. Thus, proposed

institutional framework is developed for the constitution of the Regional Planning

Authority as per the provisions in the Town and Country Planning Act,1971,which

will be the main implementing body for the Regional Plan. The financial set up for

the region is also discussed stating the investments for the region as per the Tamil

Nadu Vision 2023.

The constituent sub regions of the Coimbatore region is discussed briefly focusing on

the thrust area of the districts, the analysis incorporated based on the issues and

challenges and the proposals addressing the same.

The final proposal for the land use zoning of the region is worked which is based on

the future investments that are proposed in the region. Thus the zones are classified

based on the development of the land parcels as per the industrial and the agricultural

growth. The development of the residential and commercial zones is also focused

along with the industrial development of the region. The zoning also looks into the

conservation of the eco sensitive areas comprising of the national parks and wildlife

sanctuaries fulfilling the sustainable development concept.


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Table of Contents

Acknowledgement ......................................................................................................... 1

Executive Summary ....................................................................................................... 3

List of Figures ................................................................................................................ 8

List of Tables ............................................................................................................... 10

1. CHAPTER-INTRODUCTION TO THE REGION ............................................. 12

1.1 Location of Coimbatore Region in Tamil Nadu............................................ 13

1.2 Need for the Regional Plan ........................................................................... 14

1.3 Demographic Profile ..................................................................................... 25

1.3.1 Area and Population ............................................................................... 25

1.3.2 Density ......................................................................................................... 28

1.3.2 Sex Ratio ................................................................................................ 28

1.3.3 Literacy Rate .......................................................................................... 29

1.3.5 Marginalized Population.............................................................................. 30

1.3.6 Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribes Population ..................................... 30

1.4 Regional Economy ........................................................................................ 32

1.4.1 Gross Domestic Product .............................................................................. 32

1.4.2 Work Force Participation ............................................................................. 35

1.4.3 Classification of Work Force Participation, Sector wise ............................. 37

1.5 Physiography and Environment .................................................................... 42

1.5.1 Physiography.......................................................................................... 42

1.5.2 River System .......................................................................................... 43

1.5.3 Environment ........................................................................................... 45


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1.6 Vision and Methodology .................................................................................... 48

1.7 Regional Connectivity ........................................................................................ 49

1.7.1 Road ............................................................................................................. 50

1.7.2 Railway ........................................................................................................ 50

1.7.3 Air ................................................................................................................ 51

1.7.4 Port............................................................................................................... 51

1.8 Settlement Structure ........................................................................................... 52

1.8.1 Existing Settlement Structure ...................................................................... 53

1.8.2 Determining Settlement Hierarchy by Administrative & Population size .. 57

1.8.3 Existing Scenario of Coimbatore Region .................................................... 60

1.9 Population Projection ......................................................................................... 62

1.9.1 Proposed Settlement Structure ..................................................................... 64

1.10 Institutional Set Up of Coimbatore Region ...................................................... 69

1.10.1 Acts ............................................................................................................ 69

1.10.2 Administration ........................................................................................... 75

1.10.3 Finance....................................................................................................... 85

2. CHAPTER-CONSTITUENTS OF THE REGION .............................................. 93

2.1 Coimbatore Sub Region ..................................................................................... 93

2.2 Tiruppur Sub Region .......................................................................................... 94

2.3 Erode Sub Region............................................................................................... 94

2.4 The Nilgiris Sub Region ..................................................................................... 95

3. CHAPTER-SUMMARY ...................................................................................... 96

3.1 Coimbatore Sub Region ..................................................................................... 96

3.2 Tiruppur Sub Region .......................................................................................... 97


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3.3 Erode Sub Region............................................................................................... 99

3.4 The Nilgiris Sub Region ................................................................................... 100

4. CHAPTER-PROPOSALS .................................................................................. 102


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List of Figures

Figure 1-1: Evolution of the Coimbatore Region ........................................................ 13

Figure 1-2: Location of Coimbatore Region ................................................................ 14

Figure 1-3: Administrative Set up of Coimbatore Region ........................................... 14

Figure 1-4: Urbanization in Tamil Nadu ..................................................................... 16

Figure 1-5: Proposed Transport Corridors in Vision 2023 .......................................... 16

Figure 1-6: Eco Sensitive Zone .................................................................................... 17

Figure 1-7: Investment Regions .................................................................................. 18

Figure 1-8: Area and Population of the Region ........................................................... 26

Figure 1-9: Distribution of Area and Population within the Region ........................... 26

Figure 1-10: Population distribution of the region and the sub region ........................ 27

Figure 1-11: Population Density .................................................................................. 28

Figure 1-12: Sex Ratio ................................................................................................. 29

Figure 1-13: Literacy Rate ........................................................................................... 30

Figure 1-14: Marginalized Population ......................................................................... 30

Figure 1-15: Share of SC and ST population to the total population .......................... 31

Figure 1-16: Total Share of ST and SC population within the Coimbatore Region .... 31

Figure 1-17: GDDP comparison of the Coimbatore Region ....................................... 32

Figure 1-18: Sector's Share in regional GDP ............................................................... 33

Figure 1-19: Sector Wise share of GDP in sub region................................................. 33

Figure 1-20: Share of sectors in NDP of sub regions .................................................. 34

Figure 1-21: Share of sectors in GDP of sub regions .................................................. 34

Figure 1-22: Composition of the Work force participation of the region .................... 35


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Figure 1-23: Composition of the work force participation of the Coimbatore region . 36

Figure 1-24: Sub region wise composition of the work force participation ................ 36

Figure 1-25: Composition of the main workers population ......................................... 37

Figure 1-26: Composition of Sub region wise main work force participation ............ 38

Figure 1-27: Sector wise main work force participation of the Coimbatore Region ... 39

Figure 1-28: Composition of the Marginal workforce participation of the region ...... 40

Figure 1-29: Sub region wise composition of the marginal work force participation . 41

Figure 1-30: Sector wise composition of the marginal work force of the region ........ 41

Figure 1-31: Physiography of the Coimbatore region ................................................. 43

Figure 1-32: River basin of the Coimbatore region ..................................................... 44

Figure 1-33: Environmentally Protected Area ............................................................. 47

Figure 1-34: Share of Forest Area of Tamil Nadu Region .......................................... 47

Figure 1-35: Share of Forest Area within Coimbatore Region .................................... 47

Figure 1-36: Methodology for the Regional Plan ........................................................ 49

Figure 1-37: Regional Connectivity of Coimbatore region ........................................ 52

Figure 1-38: Existing urban settlements with comparison with urbanization rate ..... 55

Figure 1-39: Order of Settlements ............................................................................... 59

Figure 1-40: Methodology for Scalogram ................................................................... 60

Figure 1-1-41: Population Projection........................................................................... 63

Figure 1-1-42: Population Growth Rate from 1991-2001 to 2031-2041 ..................... 64

Figure 1-44: Comparison of Proposed Urban Settlements and Urbanization Rate in

Coimbatore Region (2041) .......................................................................................... 68

Figure 1-45: Institutional Set up of Town and Country Planning Board ..................... 71


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Figure 1-46: Institutional Set up for Regional Planning Authority as per T&CP

Act,1971 ....................................................................................................................... 73

Figure 1-47: Plan Preparation as per Spatial Data Infrastructure ................................ 76

Figure 1-48: Plan Implementation as per Spatial Data Infrastructure ......................... 76

Figure 1-49: Plan Monitoring As per Spatial Data Infrastructure .............................. 77

Figure 1-50: Plan Evaluation as per Spatial Data Infrastructure ................................. 77

Figure 1-51: Proposed Institutional Set up for the Regional Planning Authority ....... 84

Figure 4-1: Land Use Zone Map ................................................................................ 105

List of Tables

Table 1-1: GDP values of the Coimbatore region and Tamil Nadu ............................ 32

Table 1-2: Share of sectors in NDP of sub regions ...................................................... 34

Table 1-3: Share of sectors in GDP of sub regions ...................................................... 34

Table 1-4: Class Wise Average Population of Urban Settlement ................................ 53

Table 1-5: Class Wise Composition of Urban Settlement ........................................... 53

Table 1-6: Distribution of Population in the Coimbatore Region................................ 61

Table 1-7: Percentage share of population in the Coimbatore Region ........................ 61

Table 1-8: Growth rate of Coimbatore Region ............................................................ 61

Table 1-9: Population projection of the Coimbatore Region ....................................... 62

Table 1-10: Population Projection of the Coimbatore Region(2021-2041)................. 63

Table 1-11: Population Growth Rate of Coimbatore Region from 1991-2041 ........... 64

Table 1-12: Average population of Urban Settlements ............................................... 65

Table 1-13: Composition of Urban Settlements (2041) ............................................... 66

Table 1-14: Composition of proposed urban settlements (2041) ................................ 66


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Table 1-15: Spatial Data Infrastructure ........................................................................ 79

Table 1-16: Financing as per Tamil Nadu Vision 2023 ............................................... 86

Table 1-17: Financing as per Central, State funded schemes and State Finance

Commission ................................................................................................................. 90


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1. CHAPTER-INTRODUCTION TO THE REGION

India is fast urbanizing country and the urbanization can be seen through the

urbanization rate which is 31.2% as per 2011 Census. Tamil Nadu is the fastest

urbanizing state in India with 48.4% people living in urban areas as per 2011 census.

The State‟s contribution to the economy is the second largest in the country which is

US$220 Billion as in 2018-19. The Coimbatore Region is the second largest

conurbation. Also, after the adoption of the Town and Country Planning Act, 1971 for

Tamil Nadu state, 8 planning regions were delineated for Tamil Nadu. The

Coimbatore region was formed in 1974 after the enactment of the act and was the

second largest urbanized region with 64.25% of the urban population after Chennai

Region with 77.7%.

The Coimbatore Region was originally a part of the Kongu country, inhibited by the

tribes. Before the region was ruled by the Kosras, Rashtrakutas, Cholas, Chalukyas,

Pandyas, Hoysalas, Alauddin Khilji, and Vijayanagar rulers, Madurai Nayakars,

Hyder Ali and East India Company. In 1799, after the defeat of Tipu Sultan in the

Anglo Mysore War, the Coimbatore region was annexed to the Madras Presidency. In

1865, Coimbatore district was formed and Coimbatore was established as the capital

of the newly formed district. The Nilgiris district was bifurcated from the Coimbatore

district in 1868. The district experienced industrialization with boom in textile

industry. In 1979, Erode district formely known as Periyar district was formed from

the Coimbatore district and renamed as Erode in 1996. In 2009, Tiruppur District was

carved out of Coimbatore and Erode district.

The Coimbatore Region comprises of Coimbatore, Erode, Tiruppur and The Nilgiris

district. It is one of the fastest growing region in Tamil Nadu. The region consists of

three major urban centers of Tamil Nadu Coimbatore, Tiruppur and Erode. The

Nilgiris district comes under the Nilgiris Biosphere Reserve and is famous for its hill

stations and lush green mountains.


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Figure 1-1: Evolution of the Coimbatore Region1

1.1 Location of Coimbatore Region in Tamil Nadu

The Coimbatore region lies in the North Western Part of the Tamil Nadu state in

Southern India. The region is spread out between 10°10‟ and 11°58‟ North Lattitudes

and 76°13‟ and 77°58‟ East Longitudes. The region is bounded by Chamarajanagar

district of Karnataka in the North and Iddukki district, Palakkad and Trissur district of

Kerala in south and south west respectively. The eastern part of the region which

comprises of both Erode and Tiruppur district shares its boundary with Salem,

Namakkal, Karur and Dindigul district. The western part of the region forms a part of

the Western Ghats and the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve consisting of lofty mountains.

The Western Ghats extends to North West of Erode district and North West, west and

Southern part of Coimbatore sub region. The Coimbatore Region as per the revised

demarcation consists of four districts- Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Erode and The Nilgiris.

The figure below represents location of Coimbatore region and administration setup

of Coimbatore region. As per census 2011, Coimbatore district is divided into 6

Taluks, 6 Municipalities and 1 Municipal Corporation. The Tiruppur district consists

of 7 Taluks, 6 Municipalities and 1 Municipal Corporations. The Erode District

1 Source: District Census Handbook 2 Source: District Census Handbook

1865 1868

1979 2009


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consists of 5 Taluks, 8 Municipalities and 1 Municipal Corporation. The Nilgiris

consists of 6 Taluks and 4 Municipalities.

Figure 1-2: Location of Coimbatore Region

Figure 1-3: Administrative Set up of Coimbatore Region

1.2 Need for the Regional Plan

As per the Town and Country Planning Act of 1971, planning is required for the

development and use of the rural and urban land in the state of Tamil Nadu for the


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purposes connected therewith. Thus, to achieve this objective the state has been

divided into planning regions based on economy, demography, social and physical

conditions in 1974. The Coimbatore region is one of the largest regions proposed as

planning regions after the implementation of the Town and Country Planning Act,

1971. The region comprised of then Coimbatore district, The Nilgiris district and

Karur taluk of Tiruchirappalli district. The Coimbatore district included the present

Erode and Tiruppur district. This region was an industrial region because of the

development of textile and agro based industries and Erode taluk had concentration of

the tanneries, oil mills, bleaching and dying industries, handlooms, etc. After the 1974

plan it was clearly mentioned about each individual functions and predicted the future

development in this region. It is also acting as a connecting corridor forming the

Coimbatore-Erode corridor which serves as a link from Madras to Cochin with good

connectivity of railways and highways. The agro based industries flourished in this

region especially turmeric production due to the presence of Bhavani and Cauvery

valley which provided with irrigation facilities. The Tiruppur taluk also witnessed

high industrialization and urbanization due to the presence of textile and hosiery

industries. Thus, they will emerge as future growth center as was proposed for 1991

and will attract more population.

The Nilgiris district major economic activity was tourism due to the presence of hills

reserve forest and pleasant climate. The potato cultivation and tea and coffee

production contributed to the primary and the secondary sector respectively. It was

anticipated that in 1991, the proposed working population should increase to 50%

which will mainly accommodate in the industrial centers of the region with growth

rate of almost 42% and 41% in Tiruppur and Erode respectively. In 1974 plan this

region was proposed to emerge as major economic region in the state due to

urbanization and industrialization. Six sub regions were delineated for development of

the region considering both environment and economic growth. The Master Plan

preparation was proposed for development of the growing urban centers mainly for

Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Erode, Octacumund and Coonor to cater the provision of the

basic amenities for future.

By comparing 1974th

plan with existing scenario with rural and urban settlement, the

total area and density changed in a rapid manner. The Coimbatore region comprises of

the present Coimbatore, Erode, Tiruppur and the Nilgiris district. As per 2011 Census,

the urbanization rate of the region is one of the highest, next to Chennai. Coimbatore

is one of the four Metropolitan cities in the region and consists of second highest

number of non-metropolitan cities and census towns. Also Coimbatore, Erode and

Tiruppur are part of a greater urban agglomeration of Coimbatore to Salem, where

Coimbatore – the second major urban agglomeration of Tamil Nadu exist. Due to the

defense corridor investments, Tiruppur and Erode adjoins Coimbatore in terms of


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urban continuum. The urbanization rate of Coimbatore region as per 2011 census is

64.2% much higher than 1991 which was around 30.7%. The Coimbatore, Tiruppur

and The Nilgiris district have rapidly urbanized since 1991 which is more than double

the urbanization rate for Coimbatore and Tiruppur which is 75.7% and 61.4%

respectively. As per the study of the Oxford University Economics conducted in 2018,

Tiruppur city will be among the 20 fastest growing cities in the world in terms of

GDP with 8.36% growth in GDP year on year from 2019 to 2035 having more census

towns in 2001-2011. The urbanization rate for Erode and The Nilgiris district in 2011

was also very high which is 59.2% and 51.4% respectively.

As per Tamil Nadu Vision 2023, the Coimbatore Salem industrial corridor as

manufacturing and business investment region is proposed which will be focused on

production and manufacture of the logistics, heavy industries in Tiruppur and Salem

districts bringing in employment opportunities in addition connecting the industrial

areas and other hinterland. The Defence Ministry has taken multiple measures to

promote indigenization in the defence industry. In 2018, a Defence Corridors was

proposed in Tamil Nadu. The Tamil Nadu Defence Corridor will have Chennai,

Hosur, Salem and Coimbatore as Nodal Centers. This will develop ancillary industries

in and around the nodal centers bringing in more employment resulting in further

urbanization within class III and IV cities. The figures below represents urbanization

and proposed transport corridor.

Figure 1-4: Urbanization in Tamil Nadu

Figure 1-5: Proposed Transport Corridors in

Vision 2023


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The proposed transport corridor as per Vision 2023 passes through this region. The

High Speed Rail connecting Chennai-Coimbatore- Madurai, the Industrial Corridor

between Coimbatore and Salem proposed as Agri Business Investment Region,

Coimbatore – Madurai Industrial Corridor and the Traingular Corridor proposed

between Chengelpet-Coimbatore and Thootukudi will bring in more investments and

employment in this region because of the presence of good connectivity both by rail

and road which facilitates the transportation of goods and raw materials. The

Coimbatore Region being the junction of all these corridors will experience high rate

of urbanization in coming years. The Coimbatore Region is rich in terms of forest and

biodiversity constituting of National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries. The share of

forest area in the Nilgiris and Erode district is almost 56% and 46% respectively

making this region eco sensitive.

As per the Regional Plan prepared for the

region in 1980, the Master Plan

preparation was proposed for the Urban

centers of this region owing to the future

urbanization and industrialization of the

region. Some of the conclusions of the

plan was incorporated sector wise for

future expansion of the region but was

not incorporated as whole. Area wise it is

greater than Chennai Mega-regional area

8878 sq. km. with fast growing

urbanization activity there should be

necessity for regional plan to cater

monopolistic development of Tamil

Nadu.

Under TNTCP Act, Section 15, Master

Plan should be followed by region but

Figure 1-6: Eco Sensitive Zone current scenario is different as there is no hierarchy plan, missing out linkages and

integration. If it continues, only urban area will get developed, hinterland will be

converted into sprawl. In order to avoid unplanned development in a controlled

manner, it can be brought through regional plan. Thus, there is a need for the

preparation of the Regional Plan for this growing economic region catering to the

proposed investments and growth of this region in terms of industrial corridors, future

economic growth, bringing in more induced population in accordance with the eco

sensitive nature of the region.


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Figure 1-7: Investment Regions

The investment regions proposed in the Coimbatore Region as per the Tamil Nadu

Vision 2023 will also initiate rapid development of the region in future decades. The

detailed investments proposed are listed below.

Transport

Six-Eight Lane Triangular Corridor: Thoothukudi-Coimbatore Alignment


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The second segment of the Six/Eight lane triangular alignment runs from Thoothkudi

to Coimbatore which covers a distance of 282 kms of National Highways and 53 kms

of State Highways. The National Highway 209 in the Coimbatore region which falls

in this triangular alignment will have a multiplier effect on the economy of the region.

Provision of employment opportunities in construction and operations which will

change the economic landscape of the district. This project will support the

manufacturing and business hubs, agri-business hubs, tourism zones and knowledge

hubs proposed in the region. The project will be implemented by Tamil Nadu Road

Development Corporation with an investment of 5,000 crores in Public-Private

Partnership.

Six-Eight Lane Triangular Corridor: Coimbatore- Chengalpet Alignment

The third segment of the Six/Eight lane triangular alignment runs from Coimbatore to

Chengalpet which covers a distance of 196 kms of National Highways and 266 kms of

State Highways. This project will support the Coimbatore-Salem Industrial corridor.

The project will be implemented by Tamil Nadu Road Development Corporation with

an investment 9,000 crores in Public Private-Partnership.

Madurai-Coimbatore High Speed Rail Link

Madurai and Coimbatore being two major cities have a significant passenger traffic.

The high-speed link between these two cities will be useful for fast passenger

movement, lesser energy consumption, reduced accidents and overall economic

development of the region. The link will be aligned through the towns of Dindigul,

Udumalpet and Pollachi. This project will be implemented by Indian Railways with

an investment of 23,000 crores in Public-Private Partnership.

Coimbatore-Chennai High Speed Rail Link

Coimbatore and Chennai are the major business and industrial centre in the state of

Tamil Nadu which has resulted in heavier passenger traffic. The high-speed link

between these two cities will provide a faster passenger movement accounting to

significant savings, lesser energy consumption, reduced accidents and overall

economic development of the region. The project will be implemented by Indian

Railways with an investment of 45,000 crores in Public-Private Partnership.

Aviation

Expansion of Coimbatore Airport

The project will expand the existing AAI‟s Coimbatore Airport by increasing the

length of the runway by 3,000 meters to handle wide aircrafts, new passenger terminal

with a capacity of 2 million passengers and associated facilities with an area of 65,000


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sq. mts. The proposed airport will have a multiplier effect on the region enhancing the

economic development. This project will be implemented by Airports Authority of

India and Transport Department of Government of Tamil Nadu with an investment of

3,000 crores in Public-Private Partnership.

Industry Sector

Coimbatore-Salem Industrial Corridor – Manufacturing and Business

Investment Region – I & II

One of the Manufacturing and Business region will be established in Coimbatore-

Tiruppur district and the second one in Salem district focusing on industries like

heavy engineering, precision tools, logistics etc. Manufacturing zones, industrial

parks, warehouses and logistics hub will be developed including internal

infrastructure for residential development and specialised infrastructure which would

include testing centres, QC labs, product display centre, administration buildings,

training centre, etc. This project will enhance the competitiveness and efficiency of

manufacturing enterprises in the region and provide connectivity to industrial areas.

The project will be implemented by State Industries Promotion Corporation of Tamil

Nadu (SIPCOT) with an investment of 7,200 crores in Public-Private Partnership.

Coimbatore-Salem Industrial Corridor – Agri Business Investment Region

(ABIR)

The Agri Business Investment region is proposed in Erode-Namakkal Districts which

would serve as a hub for agri engineering and food processing for vegetables, fruits,

grains and packaged food/convenience food, spices, dairy, poultry and animal

products. Manufacturing zones, industrial parks (agro-food, agro-logistics, livestock),

warehouses and logistics hub will be developed along with internal infrastructure for

residential development and specialised infrastructure for the agri business hub. The

proposed project will develop multi-model infrastructure development in the region

ad also will empower rural communities by creating high-value business

opportunities. It is estimated that the project will create 5 lakh direct and indirect jobs.

Thrust areas like improvement in the production of crops, wastage reduction, price

stabilisation, genetically modified varieties, micro propagation, micro irrigation,

organic farming etc., will be addressed. The project will be implemented by State

Industries Promotion Corporation of Tamil Nadu (SIPCOT) with an investment of

4,800 crores in Public-Private Partnership.

Coimbatore-Madurai Industrial Corridor


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This corridor covers Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Dindigul and Madurai districts with an

objective to establish a link between Coimbatore and Madurai cities. Textile and agro-

processing industries which have dominated the industrial development in these

districts will be enhanced by improving industrial infrastructure. This corridor will

utilise the agricultural produce of the adjoining corridor. Textile, light engineering

and agro based industries will be concentrated in Coimbatore and Tiruppur districts.

The proposed six/eight lane road and the high-speed rail link will facilitate

development of the corridor. The project will be implemented by State Industries

Promotion Corporation of Tamil Nadu (SIPCOT) with an investment of 10,000 crores

in Public-Private Partnership.

Industrial Parks of Small and Medium Enterprises

Tamil Nadu Small Industries Development Corporation Ltd. (SIDCO) proposes 25

industrial parks for Small and Medium Enterprises in 15 districts out of which one

park will be established in Kandiyan Kovil village in Coimbatore district. The park

will extend to 250 acres and will be self-contained with utilities, common services and

facilities for small industries. The proposal has been submitted to the Department of

Chemicals and Petrochemicals, Ministry of Fertilisers and Chemicals, Government of

India. The project will be implemented by Tamil Nadu Small Industries Development

Corporation Ltd. (SIDCO) with an investment of 1,000 crores in Public-Private

Partnership.

Urban Infrastructure, Water Storage and Supply, Solid Waste Management and

Housing

World-Class Cities Programme

The World-Class Cities Programme includes 10 cities in Tamil Nadu namely,

Chennai, Coimbatore-Tiruppur, Madurai, Trichy, Salem-Erode, Tirunelveli,

Tuticorin, Vellore-Ranipet, Cuddalore and Hosur. With the rapidly increasing

urbanisation rate in the state of Tamil Nadu it is important to enhance basic services

in the cities to cater to the increasing population. The programme will improve water

supply, sanitation, solid waste management, urban transport, housing and other

sectors in the cities. The project will enable universal, affordable, consistent and

equitable piped water supply and best class services in all the cities under the

programme. This programme will be implemented by the Urban Local Bodies and

Tamil Nadu Water Supply and Drainage Board (TWAD) with an investment of 5,000

crores.

100% Sanitised – Clean and Garbage Free cities

Tamil Nadu has been a pioneer in Solid Waste Management through Public-Private

Partnership. This programme will be implemented in Coimbatore in compliance with


22

the SWM rules of 2000 in all urban areas of the state, implementation of door-to-door

collection and source segregation, regional approach to create and operate waste

processing and landfill and mandating localised bio-degradable waste processing.

This programme will be implemented by the Urban Local Bodies with an investment

of 5,000 crores and the mode of finance will be grants from state and central

government and Public-Private Partnership.

Mass Public Transit Systems for Madurai and Coimbatore

Observing the growth potential of Coimbatore and Madurai public mass transit

systems for these cities is required. The objective of this programme would prepare a

plan for modern public transit systems in Coimbatore, Madurai, Trichy and Salem.

This project will help in enhancing the urban transport initiatives of these cities and

would help world-class transit system and seamless connectivity. This programme

will be implemented by the Transport Department with an investment of 50,000

crores and the mode of finance will be grants from state and central government and

Public-Private Partnership.

Agriculture and Irrigation Sector

Infrastructure support for Agro Food Processing Industry

Coimbatore, Erode, Nilgiris and Tiruppur districts have been included in this project

to improve processing industries and engage farmers in high productive farming

techniques to maximise outputs of their farms. The project will improve existing

processing centres by encouraging cold storages and reducing wastage in the supply

chain. This programme will be implemented by the Agriculture Department with the

support of Tamil Nadu Agriculture University with an investment of 5,000 crores and

the mode of finance will be Public-Private Partnership.

Infrastructure for Dairy Processing

The state government has aimed to promote White Revolution by doubling the milk

production capacity of Tamil Nadu. With the augmentation of various schemes, the

livestock population in the state has increased the household income. This project will

help in enhancing dairy processing centres across the state and includes Coimbatore

district. These processing centres will not only be developed for primary processing

but also distributing milk and other value-added products like flavoured milk, milk

powder, ghee, paneer, cheese, khoa and other processed milk products which will aid

for economic development of milk industry. This programme will be implemented by

Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries Department with an investment of 5,250

crores and the mode of finance will be Public-Private Partnership.

Infrastructure for Poultry Processing


23

The Government of Tamil Nadu intends to promote poultry meat processing and egg

processing industry by Public-Private Partnership. The project will help in the

creation of processing infrastructure for poultry meat and egg. The main objective is

to establish a supply chain integrating marginal farmers and small and medium

hatcheries would result in tremendous economic return. Coimbatore, Tiruppur and

Erode districts are included in this project for modernising the production method and

quality requirements. This programme will be implemented by Animal Husbandry,

Dairying and Fisheries Department with an investment of 2,000 crores and the mode

of finance will be Public-Private Partnership.

Lining of major canals in Tamil Nadu

The project aims to provide stone, concrete, precast slab or HDPE lining for the major

canal systems in the state and piped water supply will be provided to the adjacent

field to compensate the loss of natural recharge. Through this project the water

seepage losses can be avoided to great extent and silting of canals can be limited. This

programme will be implemented by WRO-Public Works Department with an

investment of 5,000 crores and the mode of finance will be Public-Private Partnership.

Health Sector

Medi Cities at Perundurai and Madurai

Two medi-cities will be established at the existing institute of Road Transport

Medical College Campus at Perundurai, Erode. The medi-cities will have high end

medical services and hospitality services to cater medical tourism market in South

India. Apart from medical services the medi-city will be focusing on medical

research. Perundurai is located on NH-47 and is one of the most important centres for

tourist activity. Erode being the gateway to Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats and

Coimbatore airport is located 40 kms from Perundurai. Hospitality, entertainment and

logistics facilities will be enabled by private organisations. This programme will be

implemented by Health and Family Welfare Department, Interested Private

Sector/Corporate groups with an investment of 2,000 crores and the mode of finance

will be Public-Private Partnership.

Centres for Excellence for Cancer Cure

Centre for excellence will be established in five location across Tamil Nadu for

cancer care. Coimbatore district is also included in this project. Government hospitals

will be encouraged to partnership with reputed medical institutions to improve

diagnostic, curative and surgical capabilities in cancer care. This programme will be

implemented by Health and Family Welfare Department with an investment of 500

crores and the mode of finance will be Public-Private Partnership.


24

Establishment of Five Global Quality Nursing and Para Medical Training

Institutes

The state will establish nursing and paramedical training institutions of international

standards for supporting healthcare survey. This programme will be implemented by

Health and Family Welfare Department with an investment of 500 crores and the

mode of finance will be Public-Private Partnership. The objective of the project is to

establish world class workforce capable of serving international hospitals and

establishments. This programme will be implemented by Private Education

institutions with an investment of 500 crores and the mode of finance will be Private

Partnership.

Education, Human Resources Development and Skill Development Sector

Knowledge Hub in Coimbatore/Salem

The project majorly focuses on the development of Coimbatore/Salem as Knowledge

City which will be a destination for investments in higher education. The knowledge

city will act as a regional hub for learning and innovation bridging the gap between

talent gap and learning environment. It would primarily serve as IT, ITES hub for

software development and Information Technology Development. The project will

aim to make Tamil Nadu the back-off capital of the world for large scale information

technology based on banks, insurance, financial services, consultancies, engineering,

accounting, healthcare, architecture etc. High speed connectivity and bandwidth

essential for increase in the productivity and competitiveness of the Knowledge City

will be enhanced. This programme will be implemented by Tamil Nadu Industrial

Development Corporation with an investment of 750 crores and the mode of finance

will be Public-Private Partnership.

Enhancing Employability Skills of Engineering Students

The project will improve the employability skills of graduate engineers by educating

on analytical skills, practical ingenuity, design, creativity, communication skills,

business and management skills, leadership skills, ethical standards, professionalism,

lifelong learning skills, team building skills and flexibility. Coimbatore has been

selected for this programme. This programme will be implemented by Anna

University, Chennai with an investment of 6,000 crores and the mode of finance will

be through Universities and colleges in Tamil Nadu.

Entrepreneurship Development Centre – Coimbatore

Pollachi, Mettupalayam and Valparai are key centres fo agro cultivation and trading

centres. Coimbatore centre will focus on manufacturing and services related to

incubation support in the broad activities: mapping of potential SME opportunities,


25

mapping/screening of potential of SMEs, Capacity building through local universities,

incubation support with the help of financial institutions and mentoring helpline. This

programme will be implemented by Department of Higher Education, Industry, Tamil

Nadu Skill Development Mission, Tamil Nadu Corporation for Development of

Woman with an investment of 15 crores and the mode of finance will be government

funds.

Centre of Excellence for Agricultural Practices

This programme will bring out sustainable solutions for improving agricultural

capability of the state in improving agricultural yield, reduced input cost for

agricultural production, optimal irrigation requirement, reduced wastage, speedy

transfer of technology and better storage and transportation. This programme will be

implemented by Tamil Nadu Agriculture University supported by Agriculture

Department with an investment of 500 crores and the mode of finance will be Public-

Private Partnership.

The regional plan also should concentrate on accommodating the future induced

population which will be added because of the employment that will be generated

because of these investments with all the basic amenities and infrastructure. Also this

region has a major share in the economic development of the state in terms of

primary, secondary and tertiary sector with 15.16% share in the GDP of the state.

Thus, a regional plan preparation is required for the sustainable economic

development of the region.

1.3 Demographic Profile

1.3.1 Area and Population

The Coimbatore region consists of following sub-region: Coimbatore, Tiruppur,

Erode and The Nilgiris district with an area of 18,235 sq km which accounts for 14%

of the total area of the state which is 1,30,060 sq.km . This 14% area of the region

accommodates 8,924,235 people which is 12% of the state‟s population, as per census

2011.


26

Figure 1-8: Area and Population of the Region

2

Within 14% of the area of the region, Erode sub region has the major share of 32% of

area accommodating 25% of the population of the region. The second major area is

shared by the Tiruppur sub-region accommodating 28% population of the region. The

Coimbatore sub-region shares 26% of the area of the region accounting for maximum

share of population of the region which is 39%. The Nilgiris sub-region has the least

share of area in the region about 14% accommodating only 8% of the population.

Figure represents area and population share in comparision with Tamil Nadu as well

as distribution within the region.

Figure 1-9: Distribution of Area and Population within the Region

3 During the last three decades, trends show that the growth of the urban population

have been increasing in both the region and sub regions. The urbanization rate of the

Coimbatore region has increased from 30.7% to 64.2% from 1991 to 2011 which is

almost twice that of 1991. The rural population declined in the same proportion. The

share of population of the region within the state remained constant with a small

increase of 0.8%. Within the Coimbatore region, the Coimbatore district has the

maximum increase in the urban population from 31% to 75.7% since 1991 because of

the growth of the industries mainly the textile and the pump industries. The

subsequent decrease in the rural population was seen due to the migration of the

2 Source: District Census Handbook

3 Source: District Census Handbook


27

people for employment. The Tiruppur district shows the second maximum increase in

the share of the urban population from 28.7% in 1991 to 61.4% in 2011 which is more

than 30%. The figure below represents, the population distribution of the each region

with the sub-region.

Figure 1-10: Population distribution of the region and the sub region

4

The urbanization level of Tiruppur district is increasing over the years because of the

development which came through the growth of the industrial sector mainly the textile

mills, hosiery and ginning factories which is also reflected in the share of the total

population of the district with the state which is 4.4%. For Erode district, the total

share of population with the state has decreased by 2.4% but the urbanization rate has

increased from 49.8% in 1991 to 59.2% in 2011 mainly because of the blooming of

the agro based industries specially turmeric production which made Erode as the

Turmeric capital of India. From 2001 to 2011, a slight decrease in share of the total

urban population of the district with the state was observed mainly due to the water

related issues which was reflected in the urbanization rate also. The total share of

population of The Nilgiris district to the state has decreased from 10.9% in 1991 to

8.2% in 2011 because of the less employment related opportunities in the district as

the district is highly eco sensitive with more than 50% of the area covered with forest.

This can be reflected in the increasing urbanization rate of the district from 24.6% in

1991 to 51.4% in 2011 mainly due to the migration of the people in search of work in

the tea, coffee and tourism industry which are the main economy generating sectors in

the district.

4 Source: Census of India,1991,2001,2011


28

1.3.2 Density

The density of population of the Coimbatore region is 489 persons/sq.km as against

555 persons/sq.km of the state as per 2011 census. The Coimbatore region saw

increase in the population density from 359 persons/sq.km in 1991 to 489

persons/sq.km subsequent to the state. The Coimbatore sub-region has the maximum

population density in the region which has increased from 528 in 1991 to 732 in 2011

because of the increase in the population of the district. The same trend can be seen in

the other sub regions. The second maximum increase can be seen in the Tiruppur sub

region from 295 in 1991 to 478 in 2011 with an increase of more than 1.5%. The

Erode sub region showed a slow rate of increase of population density from 313 in

1991 to 391 in 2011. The population density of the The Nilgiris sub region increased

from 277 in 1991 to 297 in 2001 and decreased to 287 in 2011 because of the

decrease in the population of the sub region due to less employment opportunities.

Figure 1-11: Population Density

5

While comparing to other sub-regions, Coimbatore sub-region has higher density than

state, but there is possibility of stability in growth density for Coimbatore region after

some point of time. Later there might be a possibility for the growth of sub-region

within the region. This needs to be considered. The figure above represents the

density of the Tamil Nadu, Region and the Sub-regions.

1.3.2 Sex Ratio

Women accounts for one half of a country‟s potential thus balanced sex ratio is

desirable for the development of a region. Gender imbalances have been known in the

human history to cause serious negative consequences for the development of the



29

society in the long run. Thus, as the Tamil Nadu state is fast urbanizing, the study of

the sex ratio is important to analyze the share of the development by the female

population.

According to the 2011 census, the state of Tamil Nadu has 36,137,975 males,

36,009,055 females which indicate the sex ratio of 996 females per 1000 males.

Coimbatore region as a whole has slightly better sex ratio of 998 females per 1000

males as compared to Tamil Nadu. Amongst the sub-regions of Coimbatore region,

Nilgiris has the highest sex ratio of 1042 females per 1000 males followed by that of

Coimbatore which is 1001 females per 1000 males which is well above the state

average. Unlike these two sub-regions, Erode and Tiruppur have comparatively lower

female population with the ratios of 992 and 988 females per 1000 males. Nilgiris and

Coimbatore sub-regions also show the highest increase in the female population from

the year 1991 to 2011 followed by Erode and Tiruppur. This shows there is potential

for female workers in industrial areas. The figure below represents sex ratios of the

region over the years.

Figure 1-12: Sex Ratio

6

1.3.3 Literacy Rate

The Figure 1-13 below represents the literacy rate of the state and Sub regions of

Coimbatore region. The literacy rate is gradually increasing for both Tamil Nadu as

well as Sub regions of Coimbatore region, denoting the accessibility to educational

facilities. Within Sub-region, The Nilgiris districts has highest literacy rate and Erode

shows lowest literacy rate.



30

Figure 1-13: Literacy Rate

7

1.3.5 Marginalized Population

Marginalized population is calculated by considering SC, ST population as a whole

and female population of other categories. The State marginalized population is 60.45

% which is higher than the Sub regional marginalized population of Coimbatore

region except for The Nilgiris Sub-region which is 64.98%. This is mainly due to the

presence of the primitive tribal groups in the district namely the Paniyas, Kotas,

Irulas, Kurumbhas which are considered to be the primitive inhabitants of the sub

region.

Figure 1-14: Marginalized Population

8

1.3.6 Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribes Population

The presence of the scheduled caste and the scheduled tribes in a region represents the

backwardness of the region. Figure below shows the SC and ST population in state,

region and sub-regions.




31

Figure 1-15: Share of SC and ST population to the total population

9

As per 2011 Census, the share of the SC and the ST population of the Tamil Nadu is

20.1% and 1.10% respectively. The share of the Coimbatore region‟s SC and ST

population was lower than the state average. Within the Coimbatore region, the share

of the SC and ST population is highest in the Nilgiris sub region which is 32.8% and

4.46% due to the presence of the tribal communities in the forest of the hilly sub

region. The least SC population is recorded in the Coimbatore sub region which is

15.50% and the ST population in the Tiruppur sub region which is 0.22%, denoting

that there should be particular focus on these groups. Figure below represents SC and

ST population share in the Coimbatore region.

Figure 1-16: Total Share of ST and SC population within the Coimbatore Region10

Within the Coimbatore sub region, the highest share of the SC and the ST population

was recorded in the Nilgiris district. The second highest SC and ST population was

recorded in the Coimbatore district as the district has the highest population share in

the region. The least SC and ST population was recorded in the Erode and Tiruppur

district respectively.




32

1.4 Regional Economy

Economic growth is the fundamental requirement for the development of any area.

The regional development is largely influenced by the regional economy which talks

about the contribution of the gross domestic product of the region to the state. The

economic growth comes from the contribution of the primary, secondary and the

tertiary sector. The agriculture in terms of turmeric and cotton production, tea and

coffee plantation mainly contributes to the growth of the primary sector of the

Coimbatore region. The textile, engineering and the pump industries have a major

share in the growth of the secondary sector of the region. The tourism sector

especially in the hilly areas of the region contributes to the tertiary sector growth of

the region.

1.4.1 Gross Domestic Product

Coimbatore region‟ is the economic engine of Tamil Nadu which is evident as it

contributes 14.55% to GSDP (Gross State Domestic Produce), its contribution

standing at 1,28,498 lakh rupees out of state‟s 8,83,066 lakh rupees. The region is one

of the major hubs for manufacturing, textile, education, tourism and health care in

Tamil Nadu with four districts contributing distinctly to the overall growth. Figure-1

compares GDDP (Gross District Domestic Product) at constant (2011-12) prices of

Coimbatore District, Tiruppur and Erode with State and Chennai. Figure-2 and

Figure-3 shows value of respective region‟s GDP and their sectoral shares over time.

Figure 1-17: GDDP comparison of the Coimbatore Region11

In the fiscal year 2015-2016, the Coimbatore Region‟s primary sector GDP was

maximum in Erode (constituting about 42.96% of regions share), secondary and

tertiary sectors were concentrated in Coimbatore district (48.02% and 42.21%

respectively) as shown in Table 1-1.

Table 1-1: GDP values of the Coimbatore region and Tamil Nadu12

11 Source: Economics and Statistics Department, Tamil Nadu


33

Figure 1-18 and Figure 1-19, shows the four sub-region‟s share in the respective

sectors. From this we see that from 2005 to 2015 Coimbatore has seen an increase in

share in all the three sectors with maximum increase in the manufacturing

(Secondary) sector.

Figure 1-18: Sector's Share in regional

GDP13

Figure 1-19: Sector Wise share of GDP in sub

region14

Primary Sector:

Total primary sector GDP increased 27.8% from 2005 to 2015 (at constant price) in

the region. Erode has held the maximum share of primary sector produce in the

region, accounting for 43% of the total regional produce in 2015. Although Erode

experienced a decrease in share over the years in the region it still grew at the rate of

34.50% over 10 years. Nilgiri has seen 55.6% increase, Coimbatore 21.23% and

Tirippur experienced 15.75% increase in primary sector produce from 2005 to 2015.

Erode, Nilgiri, Tiruppur and coimbatore district constitutes 18.28%, 12.8%, 11.98%




PRIMARY SECONDARY TERTIARY PRIMARY SECONDARY TERTIARY PRIMARY SECONDARY TERTIARY TOTAL

TAMIL NADU 25,996 67,672 1,25,336 38,728 1,30,392 2,64,118 1,04,910 3,18,138 4,60,017 15,35,307

CBE REGION 4,275 12,584 17,490 5,728 23,609 33,656 15,366 52,556 65,944 2,31,207

COIMBATORE 807 5,118 6,784 1,338 10,485 13,242 3,800 25,237 27,838 94,650

NILGIRIS 569 538 1,368 694 614 2,611 1,023 1,890 5,067 14,374

TIRUPPUR 621 3,431 4,619 1,298 7,685 9,220 3,941 12,006 16,961 59,782

ERODE 2,278 3,496 4,718 2,398 4,826 8,583 6,602 13,422 16,078 62,401

Gross Domestic Product of Tamil Nadu and Coimbatore Region (at Constant Prices)

STATE / DISTRICT(2004-05) (2011-12)

(Rs. Cr)

(2015-16)


34

and 6.68% of their GDDPs (Gross District Domestic Produce) respectively to primary

sector.

Secondary Sector:

In the span of 10 years from 2005-2015, secondary sector in Coimbatore region

increased at 23.94%. With maximum share lying with Coimbatore district in 2015

with 44.37%. Its growth has been the least (in 10 years) at 20.27% in Secondary

sector while Tiruppur and Nilgiri and Erode constitues 36.48%, 23.68% and 37.18%

of their GDDPs respectively to this sector.

Tertiary Sector:

The tertiary sector in Coimbatore region increased 26.52% in 10 years. And in 2015

contributed 49.26% to the GDP of the region. Share of tertiary sector in Coimbatore

District, Erode, Tiruppur and Nilgiri in their respective GDDPs are 48.94%, 44.53%,

51.54% and 63.49% respectively.

GDP v/s NDP

Tables below compares the share of the three sectors in National Domestic Produce

(NDP) and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the four sub-regions of Coimbatore.

Variation between GDP and NDP gives a picure about the state of capital of the sub-

region through capital depreciation.

Figure 1-20: Share of sectors in NDP of sub

regions

Figure 1-21: Share of sectors in GDP of sub

regions

Table 1-2: Share of sectors in NDP of sub regions Table 1-3: Share of sectors in GDP of sub regions


35

Source: Economics and Statistics Department, Tamil Nadu

1.4.2 Work Force Participation

The economic growth of any region is created by the people of that region. The work

force participation rate reflects the economic development of any region in the fields

of agriculture, tourism, industries, etc. Thus, workforce development is an essential

component in the economic development of any region.

Figure 1-22: Composition of the Work force participation of the region

15

As per Census 2011, the state of Tamil Nadu has 54.4% non-workers, 38.7% main

workers whereas only 6.9% marginal workers. The non-workers population is

observed to decline to some extent from the year 1991 to 2011 accompanied by slight

increase in the number of marginal workers. The Coimbatore region has higher

number of main workers i.e. 45.3% as compared to the state average along with

somewhat lower number of non-workers and marginal workers which are 50.9% and

3.8% respectively. The various sub-regions of the Coimbatore region also reflect a

similar pattern in the composition of workforce participation with highest number of

non-workers followed by the main workers and very few marginal workers. In

Nilgiris the population of non-workers has declined by 6.9% from 1991 to 2011 with

15 Source: Census of India, 1991, 2001, 2011


36

an increase in the main workers population. Tiruppur and Erode have highest

percentage of people engaged as main workers in the Coimbatore region which is also

well above the state average, due to the industrial development in the sub-region.

Figure 1-23: Composition of the work force participation of the Coimbatore region

16

The figure below shows, regional share of WFPR of the region to the state for three

decades. The Coimbatore region has 13.3 percentage of the total workforce of Tami

Nadu in 2011, which comprises of 50.9% non-workers, 45.3 main workers and 3.8%

marginal workers. The share of workforce of the region in Tamil Nadu has increased

from 12.8% in 1991 to 13.5% in 2001 and then13.3% by 2011. No major change

other than increase in the marginal worker population from 1.5% to 3.9% has been

observed in the composition of workforce in the past three decades.

Figure 1-24: Sub region wise composition of the work force participation17

16 Source: Census of India, 1991, 2001, 2011

17 Source: Census of India, 1991 ,2001, 2011


37

Within the Coimbatore region the share of the sub regions for the main worker

population reflect the dominance of Coimbatore followed by Tiruppur and Erode and

Nilgiris with the least contribution to the main workers population. Tiruppur and

Erode have somewhat similar percentage of main, marginal and non-workers

population. Erode is also observed to have slight increase in the number of main

workers, marginal workers as well as non-workers with their simultaneous decline in

Tiruppur from 2001 to 2011 as a complimentary effect. The share of Nilgiris is the

lowest in the workforce of Coimbatore region due to its low population as compared

to other sub regions and the highest contribution of Coimbatore can be attributed to its

high population.

1.4.3 Classification of Work Force Participation, Sector wise

Main Workers

The above section represents work force participation rate, here it explains about the

main working population in respective sectors. The state of Tamil Nadu has 42.9%

primary sector main workers, 24.5% main workers in secondary sector whereas 32.6

% main workers in tertiary sector. The share of primary sector main workforce is

observed to decline from the year 1991 to 2011 accompanied by slight increase in the

number of main workers in secondary sector. Similarly, Coimbatore region has lower

number of main workers in primary sector i.e. 35.7% as compared to the state average

along with somewhat lower number of main workers in secondary and tertiary sector

which are 34.2% and 30.2% respectively. A decrease in the main workers population

was observed since 1991 with simultaneous increase in the tertiary sector main

workers, due to development of various service industries which create employment

opportunities.

Figure 1-25: Composition of the main workers population

18



38

The various sub-regions of the Coimbatore region also reflect a similar pattern in the

composition of main workers participation with highest number of main workers in

the primary sector followed by tertiary and secondary sector except for Coimbatore

and Tiruppur. As per 2011 census, the share of the main workers population was more

in the tertiary sector followed by the secondary and the primary sector for the

Coimbatore sub region, showing the growth of tertiary industries.. Since, 1991 the

share of the primary sector main workers population has decreased with simultaneous

increase in the tertiary sector for Coimbatore. The Tiruppur sub region has a major

share of 47.1% main workers in the secondary sector because of the presence of the

textile and the dying industries followed by primary and tertiary sector. The Nilgiris

and Erode have highest percentage of people engaged as main workers in the primary

sector , which shows that these sub regions still withstand their growth in the primary

sector.

Figure 1-26: Composition of Sub region wise main work force participation19

The above figure represents, the Coimbatore region‟s share of the sub regions for the

main workers‟ population in primary sector reflect the dominance of Erode followed

by Tiruppur and Coimbatore and Nilgiris with the least contribution to the main

workers population in the primary sector. The share of the primary sector main

workers population was observed to decrease since 1991 in all the sub regions with a

slight increase in the Nilgiris sub region. The Coimbatore sub region has the

dominance in the share of the main workers population in the secondary sector since

1991 except for 2011 where Tiruppur sub region took the lead because of the textile

and dying industries which also attracted the industrial workers due to bifurcation of

the Tiruppur sub region. The Coimbatore sub region has a maximum share in the



39

tertiary sector main workers population since 1991, showing the dominance of the

tertiary sector in this region. The least share in the main workers population in all the

three sectors was that of the The Nilgiris sub region.

Figure 1-27: Sector wise main work force participation of the Coimbatore Region

20

The above figure represents share of Coimbatore region to Tamil Nadu which clearly

explores the regional share to Tamil Nadu. In 1991, the primary sector has the

maximum share of the main workers population followed by the secondary and

tertiary sector due to the presence of the cotton and the tea plantations. The

dominance of the main workers population in the primary sector was maintained till

2011, but decreased thereafter due to growth of industries in secondary and tertiary

sector. An increase in the main workers population in the secondary sector was

observed because of the emergence of the dying, textile and knitwear industries in the

Tiruppur sub region. The tertiary sector has the least share of main workers

population amongst the three sector which has increased to double since 1991. The

overall share of the main workers population to the Tamil Nadu state has remained the

same with decrease in 2011 which is 11.7%.

Marginal Workers

In the previous section main workers contribution was explained clearly. As per the

marginal workers is concerned, the state of Tamil Nadu has 58.8% of primary sector

marginal workers, 17.4% marginal workers in secondary sector whereas 23.9 %

marginal workers in tertiary sector. The share of primary sector marginal workforce is

observed to decline from the year 1991 to 2011 and also slight increase in the number

of marginal workers participation in secondary and tertiary sector was seen due to



40

rainfall changes which initiated people to move from primary to tertiary sector. A

decrease in the main workers population was observed since 1991 with simultaneous

increase in the tertiary sector and secondary marginal workers. The various sub-

regions of the Coimbatore region also reflect a similar pattern in the composition of

marginal workers participation with highest number of marginal workers in the

primary sector followed by tertiary and secondary sector in decreasing nature. As per

2011 census, in Coimbatore region, the share of the marginal workers population was

more in the tertiary sector followed by the primary and the secondary sector for the

Coimbatore sub region. Since, 1991 the share of the primary sector marginal workers

population has decreased with simultaneous increase in the tertiary sector for

Coimbatore. Tiruppur sub region has a major share of 39.7% marginal workers in the

primary followed by secondary and tertiary sector. The Nilgiris and Erode have

highest percentage of people engaged as marginal workers in the primary sector in the

Coimbatore region which is almost equal to the state average.

Figure 1-28: Composition of the Marginal workforce participation of the region


41

Figure 1-29: Sub region wise composition of the marginal work force participation

Source: Census of India, 1991 ,2001, 2011

Within the Coimbatore region the share of the sub regions for the marginal workers‟

population in primary sector reflect the dominance of Erode followed by Tiruppur and

Coimbatore and Nilgiris with the least contribution to the marginal workers

population in the primary sector. The share of the primary sector marginal workers

population was observed to decrease since 1991 in all the sub regions with a slight

increase in the Nilgiris sub region. The Coimbatore sub region has a mixed

dominance in the share of the marginal workers population in the secondary sector

since 1991. The Erode sub region dominated in 1991 followed by Coimbatore sub

region since 2001.The Coimbatore sub region has a maximum share in the tertiary

sector main workers population. The least share in the main workers population in all

the three sectors was that of the The Nilgiris sub region.

Figure 1-30: Sector wise composition of the marginal work force of the region


42

Source: Census of India, 1991 ,2001, 2011

The above figure represents sector wise composition of the marginal work force of

region. In 1991, the primary sector has the maximum share of the marginal workers

population followed by the secondary and tertiary sector due to the presence of the

cotton and the tea plantations. The dominance of the marginal workers population in

the primary sector was maintained till 2011 but in decreasing nature. An increase in

the marginal workers population in the secondary sector was observed because of the

emergence of the dying, textile and knitwear industries in the Tiruppur sub region.

The tertiary sector has the least share of main workers population amongst the three

sector which has increased to five times than in 1991. The overall share of the

marginal workers population to the Tamil Nadu state has almost remained the same

since 2011 with 7.2% in 2011.

After considering both marginal and main workers participation the shift in the

workers participation in different sectors can be seen which shows that the tertiary

sector is getting developed in the Coimbatore region which includes all the sub

regions showing rapid conversion from primary to tertiary sector for both main and

marginal workers participation.

1.5 Physiography and Environment

The Coimbatore region is spread out between 10°10‟ and 11°58‟ North Latitudes and

76°13‟ and 77°58‟ East Longitudes. The Nilgiris district in Tamil Nadu is the

intersection point of Eastern and Western Ghats which houses famous hill stations

Udhagamandalam and Kotagiri and the highest peak in this region is Dodabetta which

is 2637m.

1.5.1 Physiography

The physiography of the Coimbatore region is mainly defined by the riverine plain,

upland, hill slopes and high land ranging from 20m to more than 1000 m. The riverine

plains lies at an altitude of 20m to 200m along the Bhavani and the Cauvery rivers

which flows through the Erode District. . Noyyal river is an important river of the

region. It originates from Vellingiri hills in Western Ghats close to Kerala boarder and

passes through villages of Coimbatore and Trippur sub region. The upland ranging

from an altitude of 200m to 800m covers the major area of the Coimbatore region

covering the Coimbatore, Tiruppur and Erode districts. The Nilgiris district is mainly

covered by the hill slopes and high land ranging from 800m to more than 1000m.

Many tourists destinations including hill stations of Ooty, Coonor, Kotagiri,

Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary are situated in this hill slopes and enjoys a pleasant

climate prior to its location. The presence of hill slopes in the district is the major


43

reason for the cultivation of tea and coffee which require high land for their growth.

The Nilgiris sub region has a rich bio-diversity housing many endangered species like

The Nilgiri Tahr, Nilgiri Langur, Nilgiri Marten, and Lion Tailed Macaque. The

eastern part of the Erode district also falls under the hill slopes and high land where

major forest area of the district lies inhabiting a wide range of biodiversity falling

under Satyamangalam Tiger Reserve. The southern part of the region is occupied by

Polachi, Valparai and Anaimalai taluks. Polachi has a major part of its land as

agricultural area while Valparai and Anaimalai are mostly covered by the forest area.

Anaimalai tiger reserve is situated in the Anaimalai hills of Polachi, Valparai and

Udumalpet taluks of the Coimbatore and Tripur districts.

Figure 1-31: Physiography of the Coimbatore region

1.5.2 River System

The Coimbatore region is drained by mainly five rivers i.e Cauvery, Bhawani,

Noyyal, Moyar and Aliyaar. The Cauvery river forms the border of the Salem and

Erode district flowing from north to south of the western part of the region. The

Bhawani river flows from north west part of the region from Nilgiris district through


44

Erode to the north eastern part of the region finally joining Cauvery river. The Noyyal

river originating from Vellingiri hills in Western Ghts in Coimbatore district and

flows from western part of the region to the eastern part of the region draining

Coimbatore and Erode district finally joining Cauvery river. The Aliyar river

originates from Aliyar, Polachi and flows through the southern part of the region

through south Coimbatore district. The Bhawani and the Moyar river flows from the

hills of the Nilgiris district to the plains flowing through the slopes, upland and the

riverine plains. Bhavani Sagar Dam is built over the Bhavani river in Erode district.

The dam feeds the Lower Bhavani Project Canal and Kalingarayan Canal which further

feeds different channels for irrigation in various villages of the sub region. There are

many other small streams joining these rivers such as Nallar river joining Noyyal

river, Pykara and Kallar joining Bhawani and Bharathapuzha towards south.

Figure 1-32: River basin of the Coimbatore region

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lower_Bhavani_Project_Canal

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kalingarayan_Canal


45

1.5.3 Environment

The Coimbatore region is environmentally sensitive consisting of National Parks,

Wildlife Sanctuary , Reserve Forest and Elephant Corridor. The Nilgiris district in the

region is the meeting point of the Western and the Eastern Ghats, thus inhabiting

innumerable variety of flora and fauna with some species endemic to this region prior

to its location. The forest belt of this region extending from northwest of Erode sub

region to the southern part of the Coimbatore sub region, covering Nilgiris sub region,

enroutes three major elephant corridor routes. The elephants follow these traditional

paths as corridors which are the linear patches of natural vegetation providing habitat

and food for the species. The Moyar Valley is an important area for the elephants as it

provides as a linkage between the Western and the Eastern Ghats serving as a major

route for the passage of the elephants. The Route A followed by the elephants extends

from Bandipur Tiger Reserve to Mudumalai Tiger Reserve passing through

Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve, covering the Nilgiris sub region. This route

comprises of seven corridors:

Route A

Corridor 1: The Muduhalli- Thalavadi corridor is located in the interstate boundary

of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, connecting the Punjur Range of Chamarajanagar

Wildlife Division with the Thalavadi Range of Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve. The

elephants move through narrow forest patches and private lands of Dodda Muduhalli

village. They pass through the reserve forest comprising of tropical deciduous and

thorn forest.

Corridor 2&3: The Talamalai-Guttiyalattur corridor connects elephant habitats

between Guttiyalattur Reserve Forest and Talamalai Reserve Forest of

Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve. They pass through the settlements, fallow land and

tropical thorn and deciduous forest.

Corridor 4 & 5: In the Chemmanatham and Mavinhalla corridor, elephants move

from Nilgiris North Division to Bandipur Tiger Reserve through Mudumalai Tiger

Reserve between the villages of Chemmanatham and Mavinhalla. They pass through

the tropical thorn forest with bamboo patches available.

Corridor 6: This corridor lies between Masinagudi and Singara villages on the

Northern slopes of the Nilgiri Hills. The elephants in this corridor move from

Mudumalai Tiger reserve to Nilgiri North Division. The corridor is surrounded by

tropical thorn and deciduous forest.

Corridor 7: Elephants move from Nilumbur North Forest Division in Kerala to

Mudumalai Tiger Reserve and Bandipur Tiger Reserve through human habitations in


46

Gudalur forest division via O Valley. The corridor passes through dry deciduous and

shola forest.

Route B:This route extends from Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve to Coimbatore

North Forest Division comprising of two routes.

Corridor 8: This corridor connects the Jaccanarai slope Reserve Forest and Hulikal

Durgam Reserve Forest of Coimbatore Forest Division. Elephants move from

Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve to the southern part of the Coimbatore forest division

through tropical thorn and dry deciduous forest.

Corridor 9: Elephants move from Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve to Mannarkad

Forest Division, Kerala connecting Anaikatti North Reserve Forest and Anaikatti

South Reserve Forest of Coimbatore Forest Division through tropical thorn and

deciduous forest.

Route C: The route C is followed along Water fall Tea estate (Valaparai) in the

Anaimalai Tiger Reserve.

Corridor 10: This corridor links the Valaparai and Pollachi Ranges of Anaimalai

Tiger Reserve. Elephants move from Anaimalai Tiger Reserve to Parambikulam Tiger

Reserve through narrow reserve forest between Waterfalls and Mount Stuart Estates

through tropical moist deciduous forest.

A buffer area of about 1 km is considered along these corridors for their conservation

because of the presence of human settlements along these corridors. There are cases

of human animal conflict in different areas like Mudahalli(border), Gudiyalatur,

Vazhaithottam, Chemmanatham, Mavinamalla, Masinagudi, Gudalaur- O Valley,

Jaccainaire slope, Anaikatti,North- South, Valparai- Water fall estate, resulting from

the presence of agricultural lands, vehicular traffic and also because of the number of

elephants trespassing different areas like Bandipur Tiger Reserve (1,263),

Sathyamangalam Forest Division (877), Gudalur Forest Division (112), Nilgiris North

Forest Division (272), Anai Malai Tiger Reserve(584), Mudumalai Tiger Reserve

(840), Coimbatore Forest Division (390) and BRT Tiger Reserve (617).


47

Figure 1-33: Environmentally Protected Area

Figure 1-34: Share of Forest Area of Tamil

Nadu Region

Figure 1-35: Share of Forest Area within

Coimbatore Region

Source: District Census Handbook, 2011

The above figures represents the share of Coimbatore region‟s forest area to

Tamilnadu and share of forest area of sub regions within Coimbatore region. The

CBE region shares 14% of the total 26,345 sq.km forest area of the state. Erode has

the largest reserve forest cover in the Coimbatore region contributing to a major 47%


48

of the total forest area i.e. 2,329 sq.km, followed by Nilgiris with a covered area of

1,426 sq.km.

1.6 Vision and Methodology

The vision for the preparation of the Region Plan for the Coimbatore Region is:

Sustainable Economic Development with the focus on Economic growth engines

The Regional Plan preparation aims to develop the Coimbatore Region in an

integrated manner focusing on the economic growth engines of the sub regions. The

vision of the plan is to develop the region in a sustainable approach focusing on the

economic development catering with the environmentally sensitive nature of the

region as the region shelters variety of flora and fauna residing in the National Parks

and Wildlife Sanctuaries. This development also looks into the upliftment of the

society specially the tribal community inhibiting the forest area. The economic growth

engines are the main drivers of the economy of the these sub regions which focuses

on the primary,secondary and tertiary sector. Thus the development of the regional

plan is endeavored to achieve the economic, environmental and social development of

the region as a whole through the combination of the developmental aspect of each

sub region.

Methodology

The approach adopted for the preparation of the regional plan begins with the

understanding and importance of the regional plan in Indian context by referring to

the case studies adopted for interpretation of the basic characteristics of the regional

plan. This is followed by the selection of the Coimbatore Region for the pilot exercise

of regional plan preparation. The participatory approach is adopted for the plan

preparation which involves the stakeholders concerned with the regional plan. This

will facilitate the process of collective analysis and learning. The next major step is

the identification of the thrust area of each sub regions which will be the main

concern for the plan preparation. The main focus of plan preparation for The Nilgiris

sub region is environmental conservation as the maximum area of the district is

occupied by the forest which comes under the Nilgiris Biosphere Reserve. Thus, the

development of the sub region should be planned in accordance with both economic

growth and environment conservation.


49

Figure 1-36: Methodology for the Regional Plan

The preparation of the sub regional plan for the Tiruppur district is focused on the

development of Sustainable Industrial Region. As the economic growth of the district

mainly comes from the industrial sector, thus the industrial growth should be planned

in a sustainable manner without affecting the environment. As the Coimbatore sub

region is highly urbanized, the main thrust area of the plan preparation is employment

generation. The presence of the textile and other engineering industries resulted in

inflow of people for employment opportunities. Thus the plan preparation should

focus on the need of employment generation with provision of other amenities

associated with it. The development of agro based industries in Erode sub region

especially turmeric production made the district competitive with other agro based

economic regions. Thus, the main thrust area of the sub region is competitive and

environment resilient as this region is environmentally sensitive with almost 45% area

of the district coming under forest. The development of the district should be in

accordance with the protection of the natural resources. A sustainable land use plan

for the Coimbatore region will be prepared focusing on the thrust area of each sub

region aiming for employment generation. The last phase of this plan preparation will

be the implementation of the sustainable land use plan.

1.7 Regional Connectivity

A good regional connectivity facilitates the economic growth of any country which is

mainly dependent on the development of transport infrastructure. This provides

physical and virtual access to the regional and global markets. The Coimbatore region


50

is well connected with the road, rail and air networks. These linkages have driven the

region‟s economic success by facilitating international trade, foreign direct investment

(FDI) flows, and the establishment of the global and regional production networks

and global values chains.

1.7.1 Road

The Coimbatore Region is well connected by means of roads by national highways

and state highways passing through the region, connecting major cities like Chennai,

Bangalore, Mysore, Madurai and Cochin. As Coimbatore city is one of the major

urban center of the region, a number of national highways pass through the

Coimbatore sub region which includes

NH 47 is the most important as it connects the major urban centers of the region. It

runs across Tamil Nadu and Kerala linking Salem to Cochin and passing through

Salem, Coimbatore, Palakkad, Thrissur and Cochin. It also connects three of the

major airports Cochi International Airport, Trivendrum International Airport and the

Coimbatore International Airport.

NH 67 connects Nagappattinam port of Tamil Nadu with Coimbatore passing through

Kangeyam and Palladam in Tiruppur district, Trichy, Thanjavur and Thiruvarur.

NH 209 connects Dindigul and Bangalore passing through Udumalaippettai

(Udumalpet) in Tiruppur district , Pollachi and Coimbatore in Coimbatore district.

NH 181 connects Coimbatore to Gundlupet passing through Mettupalayam and

Udhagamandalam. The highway serves as a major route to Nilgiris in the Coimbatore

region providing access to the tourist from Coimbatore to the nearby hill station

Udhagamandalam(Ooty).

1.7.2 Railway

Transport infrastructure in terms of railways has added speed and efficiency in a

region‟s progress through good physical connectivity with other urban areas for

economic development. The Coimbatore region comes under southern railway zone

and has a good connectivity with Chennai, Bangalore, Trichy, New Delhi and

Mumbai. The major stations of the regions are Coimbatore Junction, Erode and

Tiruppur. The Nilgiris district railway connectivity with Coimbatore is through the

narrow gauge railway line known as the Nilgiris Mountain Railway which functions

between Mettupalayam and Udhagamandalam. It is declared as heritage site by

UNESCO in 2005. It served as a major means of transportation of tea and coffee

during the British era. It is now functional only for tourism purpose. The other railway

lines that pass through the region are Jolarpettai- Shoranur line connecting to


51

Northern (Uttar Pradesh) and South West part of the country and Erode and

Tiruchirapalli line connecting to South Eastern parts of Tamil Nadu.

1.7.3 Air

Air connectivity plays an important role as it fosters the local economic development

and prosperity of the region. The Coimbatore region has only one airport –

Coimbatore International Airport which is the third busiest airport in Tamil Nadu after

Chennai and Tiruchirapalli. The airport connects the region to Chennai, Mumbai,

New Delhi, Kolkata and Ahemdabad. Because of the industrial nature of the region, it

is also important for the cargo transportation and stands fourth in terms of cargo

handling capacities. The next nearest airport is Cochin International Airport which is

around 174 km from Coimbatore followed by Tiruchirapalli International Airport

which is around 215 km.

1.7.4 Port

The figure below shows the connectivity of the Coimbatore region. The presence of

port connectivity is important for the transportation of the cargos internationally and

reduces the logistics costs and ensures faster delivery. The Coimbatore Region has no

port connectivity within the region and the nearest port is Cochin at a distance of 193

km from Coimbatore followed by Nagapattinam Port located in the Nagapattinam

Town along the shores of Bay of Bengal, at a distance of 354 km.


52

Figure 1-37: Regional Connectivity of Coimbatore region

The role of regional connectivity is important for the Coimbatore region which is a

promising industrial region with the upcoming industries and MSME clusters. The

Tamil Nadu Vision 2023 came up with the establishment of the Coimbatore-Salem

Industrial Corridor as manufacturing and business investment regions and the agro-

processing industries in Erode will help this region to grow as an industrial hub. Thus,

connectivity will facilitate the diversification of the economies through the huge

investment coming and creating new jobs particularly in labour intensive sectors.

1.8 Settlement Structure

The settlement pattern is important in the regional plan preparation to understand the

existing structure and potential of the individual settlements and their impact on the

surrounding areas. The settlement structure influences the overall economic and social

development of a region. The analysis for the settlement structure is essential to

achieve the objective of balanced development. The study for the settlement is done


53

based on the availability of the basic infrastructure facilities and the existing

settlement pattern is derived.

1.8.1 Existing Settlement Structure

Table 1-4: Class Wise Average Population of Urban Settlement

Average Population of Urban Settlements

Class / District Class I Class II Class III Class IV Class V Class VI

Tamil Nadu 432,554 69,139 29,488 14,262 7,654 4,390

CBE Region 443,960 71,860 30,571 14,089 7,864 3,950

Coimbatore 587,194 82,017 29,175 13,913 7,863 -

Nilgiris - 88,430 33,993 14,367 8,250 4,438

Erode 444,352 63,094 30,851 14,618 6,990 4,617

Tiruppur 157,101 68,171 30,261 13,922 8,351 3,342


Table 1-5: Class Wise Composition of Urban Settlement

Composition of Urban Settlements

Class /

District Class I

Class

II Class III Class IV Class V

Class

VI Total

Tamil Nadu 32 80 249 406 295 35 1097


54


CBE region 4 16 46 66 57 6 195

Coimbatore 2 5 18 27 17 0 69

Nilgiris 0 1 7 5 4 1 18

Erode 1 6 13 13 14 2 49

Tiruppur 1 4 8 21 22 3 59


55

Figure 1-38: Existing urban settlements with comparison with urbanization rate


56

The Coimbatore region is growing at a faster rate as compared to the rest of the state

since the average population of Coimbatore region is substantially more for the class

I, class II, class III, and class V settlements. The class I settlements are concentrated

in the headquarters of each sub region surrounded by class II and class III settlements,

expanding along the Coimbatore-Tirupur-Erode industrial corridor. This is not

followed in The Nilgiris sub region as the class II and class III settlements spread

along the NH 181 which provides a major connectivity to the hilly sub regions along

which the major settlements developed. The number of class IV towns are developed

around class I, II and III and also at places of good connectivity by road and rail. In

Coimbatore region,Coimbatore has the greatest number of class I to class VI

settlements as this sub region has high urbanization rate of more than 70% and also

due to the booming industrial sector, mostly in the MSME segment and commercial

and educational institutions. This is followed by Tiruppur sub region with medium

urbanization rate of 60-69% and Erode sub region with low urbanization rate of 50-

59%. The Nilgiris sub region has the least number of settlements due to hilly terrain

with less development of industries resulting in low urbanization rate.The

transformation occurred in the Coimbatore region due to the technology interventions

and government support that spurred growth.

Settlement hierarchy is a way of arranging settlements in an order. Settlement

hierarchy may be according to the following factors:

i. Number of services and function the settlement has

ii. Population of the settlement

iii. The area the settlement covers or the relative sphere of influence of each

settlement.

The settlement hierarchy gives ideas about functional capacity of individual

settlement and their influence on its hinterland. Intra-regional disparity can be easily

identified by earmarking poorly served or deprived areas. Settlement hierarchy is a

way of arranging settlements into a hierarchy based upon various criteria such as

population in a settlement, geographic area, and the status and the availability of

services and facilities from higher to low level. Position in a settlement hierarchy can

also depend on the sphere of influence; this is how far people will travel to use

particular service in the settlement. Lower order settlements will have lower radius of

influence and vice versa.

According to functional characteristics, settlements can be classified into two types-

rural & urban. Settlement hierarchy can be determined by different approaches as

described below-


57

1.8.2 Determining Settlement Hierarchy by Administrative & Population

size

The concept of hierarchy was introduced by Walter Christaller (1933), a German

Economic Geographer in his well-known Central Place Theory. The word

“Hierarchy” is not a geographical term. Hierarchy is a universal phenomenon due to

variation in size and functions. The gradation and grouping the settlement centers into

the size of classes is termed as hierarchy. The concept of hierarchy is fundamental to

the central place theory.

The first step in determining or protecting the character of a place is to understand its

role and relationship with other towns and villages. Formally establishing the

relationships and roles of settlements is achieved through the creation of a settlement

hierarchy which establishes an order of significance of urban areas. This Strategy

establishes a hierarchy based on size, function, urban form and social characteristics

of the settlement.

Establishing a settlement hierarchy assists in identifying the roles and characteristics

of the Region‟s settlement areas, the way they relate to themselves, and how they

relate to other settlements in the wider region and beyond. A settlement hierarchy also

helps existing and prospective residents understand the current and likely levels of

community service facilities and infrastructure, and each settlement‟s role in a

regional context.

A hierarchy of settlements arises because the economic and administrative functions

of some settlements exceed that of other settlements. The economic and

administrative importance of a centre will often be influenced by its population and

links to smaller centres.

Region may be of many type depending on the central area based on which the region

is growing. It may be a city region, Metropolitan region, an urban agglomeration etc

depending on the central places. The hierarchy may contain first order, second order,

third order settlements and so on depending on the size, population, function, facilities

available etc. Otherwise the classification may be depending on administrative status

or class of the towns (e.g- classes I to VI).

Settlement Hierarchy on the basis of amenities and facilities available in the

settlements

Various settlements are arranged in a hierarchy based on an index score related to

different parameters (facilities available)/ indicators. All these indicators are factors

related to development. All the indicators are scored on a scale depending on the


58

response from some sample populations. Sometimes under each indicator all the sub

indicators are again weighted against some ranges and composite indexes are formed.

This is done for all the settlements. The settlement having highest score is prioritised

as the higher order settlements. For this Guttman Scalogram method is also used

sometimes. Guttman scaloram only helps to identify a particular facility is available

or not in a particular settlement. Then composite index method is used to score and

rank the settlements in an order.

Determining CFI Value and Radius of Influence of each Settlement

The centrality of settlement as growth centre is indicated by the number of services it

provides and proportion of these services supported by the population. Centrality is

the measure of importance of a place in the form of its functional capacity to serve the

needs of the people in the surrounding areas. It depends on the number and types of

the existing facilities or the sum of weightage score of all the functions provided by

the central place. In order to find out the centrality score of any central place,

weightage value assigned to each of the function is multiplied by their number. Then

the centrality scores are divided in some ranges according to the order of the

settlements (e.g- first, second, third order etc).

The following methods are commonly adopted for studying the hierarchy of

settlements;

i. Composite functional index Method

ii. Scalogram Method

iii. Sociogram Method

iv. Bisectional Method

The method adopted in this study is the Scalogram technique. In this technique, the

hierarchy is measured in terms of the weight given to a particular place in relation to

the highest occurrence of a particular subject. Thus, in this technique the settlements

are ranked as per the highest occurrence and then weighted as per the social,

economic, physical and the environmental functions.

Methodology:

Existing settlement hierarchy has been determined by Scalogram technique. Indicators

have been identified on the basis of different physical, economy, connectivity,

infrastructure, land use, environmental Government institutions. Different parameters

have also been identified for the indicators. Then weightages have been given to the

indicators by the use of Delphi technique. The indicator scores have again been

divided and each parameter is weighted. The settlements are scored on the basis of the


59

values obtained by the settlements on the basis of facilities available to each

settlement. Weighted composite index method has been used for the analysis.

Figure 1-39: Order of Settlements

Base Villages: Villages not having much access to the basic facilities. These are

dependent on the service villages to get access to the at least to the lowest order

services like SHC, Primary School etc.

Service Villages: Radius of influence has been taken as 9 km. 3rd order villages

serving the lowest order rural settlements. These are having minimum lowest order

facilities like SHC, Primary School etc.

Growth Nodes: Radius of influence has been taken as 14 km. These are 2nd order

villages serving service villages. These need some higher order facilities to get

upgraded to growth centres.

Growth Centres: Radius of influence has been taken as 19 km. These are 1st order

villages serving the growth nodes. These are mostly having higher order facilities and

these are the upcoming urban centres.


60

The methodology mentioned above is

adopted to study the existing settlement

pattern of the sub regions. The

settlement patterns were classified into

the Base centers, Service Centers, Nodal

Centers and Growth Centers. Based on

the availability of the infrastructure

facilities, the future hierarchy of

settlements is proposed as per the gap

analysis.

Figure 1-40: Methodology for Scalogram

1.8.3 Existing Scenario of Coimbatore Region

In year 1991 population of Tamil Nadu was 5,58,58,946 which increased to

6,24,05,679 in year 2001 and 7,21,47,030 in year 2011 with growth rate of 11.72 in

1991-2001 to 15.61 in 2001-2011 as given in Table 1 and Table 3. While population

of Coimbatore region in year 1991 was 65,38,868 which is 11.71 of the state

increased to 76,15,497 in year 2001 to 89,24,235 in year 2011 which comprises of

12.37 percentage of total state population as given in Table 1 and Table 2. In this

11.71percentage, major population share was from rural area which was 69.27%

which decreased in year 2011 to 35.75 percentage. In the subregion, population share

of the Coimbatore district had maximum which was 38.14 and other districts Nilgiris,

Tiruppur and Erode had 10.86%, 23.43% and 27.57% population share respectively as

given in Table 2.


61

Table 1-6: Distribution of Population in the Coimbatore Region

DISTRIBUTION OF POPULATION IN COIMBATORE REGION (1991-2011)

STATE/

REGION/

SUB-REGION

1991 2001 2011

TOTAL RURAL URBAN TOTAL RURAL URBAN TOTAL RURAL URBAN

TAMIL

NADU

5,58,58,94

6

3,67,81,35

4

1,90,77,59

2

6,24,05,67

9

3,49,21,68

1

2,74,83,99

8

7,21,47,03

0

3,72,29,59

0

3,49,17,44

0

TOTAL

REGION 65,38,868 45,29,179 20,09,689 76,15,497 31,46,665 44,68,832 89,24,235 31,90,518 57,33,717

COIMBATOR

E 24,93,715 17,20,663 7,73,052 29,16,620 8,54,489 20,62,131 34,58,045 8,39,105 26,18,940

NILGIRIS 7,10,214 3,56,784 3,53,430 7,62,141 3,07,532 4,54,609 7,35,394 2,99,739 4,35,655

TIRUPPUR 15,32,000 10,92,316 4,39,684 19,20,154 9,55,661 9,64,493 24,79,052 9,57,906 15,21,146

ERODE 18,02,939 13,59,416 4,43,523 20,16,582 10,28,983 9,87,599 22,51,744 10,93,768 11,57,976

Table 1-7: Percentage share of population in the Coimbatore Region

POPULATION SHARE OF COIMBATORE REGION (%) - (1991-2011)

STATE/ REGION/

SUB-REGION

1991 2001 2011


SHARE OF COIMBATORE REGION WITH TAMIL NADU

11.71 69.27 30.73 12.20 41.32 58.68 12.37 35.75 64.25

SHARE OF SUB-REGION WITH COIMBATORE REGION

COIMBATORE 38.14 69.00 31.00 38.30 29.30 70.70 38.75 24.27 75.73

NILGIRIS 10.86 50.24 49.76 10.01 40.35 59.65 8.24 40.76 59.24

TIRUPPUR 23.43 71.30 28.70 25.21 49.77 50.23 27.78 38.64 61.36

ERODE 27.57 75.40 24.60 26.48 51.03 48.97 25.23 48.57 51.43

TOTAL 100.00 69.27 30.73 100.00 41.32 58.68 100.00 35.75 64.25

Growth rate of state was 11.72 in year 1991-2001 with rural growth rate of -5.06 and

urban growth rate of 44.06, while growth rate of Coimbatore region was 16.47 with -

30.52 rural growth rate and 122.36 urban growth rate which is more than the state

growth rate as given in Table 3. In the subregion growth rate of Tiruppur district was

highest in year 1991-2001 with 25.34 percentage. In year 2001-2011 growth rate of

state increased to 15.61 with 6.61 rural growth rate and 27.05 urban growth rate while

Coimbatore sub region had slow growth rate with 17.19 percentage but still more than

state growth rate. In the subregion growth rate of Tiruppur district was again highest

with 29.11 percentage.

Table 1-8: Growth rate of Coimbatore Region GROWTH RATE OF COIMBATORE REGION (%)

STATE/ REGION/ SUB-

REGION

1991-2001 2001-11

TOTAL RURAL URBAN TOTAL RURAL URBAN

TAMIL NADU 11.72 -5.06 44.06 15.61 6.61 27.05

CBE REGION 16.47 -30.52 122.36 17.19 1.39 28.30

COIMBATORE 16.96 -50.34 166.75 18.56 -1.80 27.00

NILGIRIS 7.31 -13.80 28.63 -3.51 -2.53 -4.17

TIRUPPUR 25.34 -12.51 119.36 29.11 0.23 57.71

ERODE 11.85 -24.31 122.67 11.66 6.30 17.25


62

1.9 Population Projection

The population projection is important for the computation of the future projection

size and characteristics based on the assumptions of the future trends in fertility,

mortality and migration. The population forecast serves as a basis for updating and

extending the plan for the region. Thus population projection study is done to see the

trend of growth of the Coimbatore Region.

In order to project the population for the district, population is projected based on the

six different methods. The population has been projected for the year 2021 and 2031

and 2041, by considering 2011 as a base year population. Methods used for

population projection are as follows:

i. Arithmetic Progression

ii. Geometric Increase method

iii. Moving Average Method

iv. Proportion Method

v. Induced Method

vi. Natural Growth rate Method

The population Projected for the sub regions is based on the six different methods as

listed. The Moving Average method is based on the moving average of the growth

rate of the previous decades. The proportion method calculates the district population

as per its proportion to the total population of the state. The population through

induced method is calculated based on the inducement in the district and its impact on

the total population. The natural growth rate method projects the population based on

the fertility, mortality and infant mortality rates. The arithmetic increase methods

calculates population as per the average increase per decade. The geometric increase

method is based on regression formula. Above mentioned methods are used to project

the increase in the population of the region for 2041.

Table 1-9: Population projection of the Coimbatore Region

POPULATION PROJECTION OF COIMBATORE REGION (2021-41)

POPULATION OF COIMBATORE REGION - 89,24,235 (2011)

METHOD 2021 2031 2041

Normal Growth Rate 1,04,63,871 1,20,91,386 1,37,66,651

Moving Average 1,06,41,258 1,26,88,636 1,51,29,929

Proportion Method 96,32,715 97,14,548 95,31,464

Artithmetic Increase 1,02,47,189 1,15,70,143 1,28,93,097

Geometric Increase 1,06,32,883 1,26,68,672 1,50,94,236

Induced Method

1,05,25,265

1,22,09,439 1,38,64,436


63

The population projected for the Coimbatore region was based on the above explained

method. As the population mentioned in the table is computed based on the different

methods, the projected population which is in accordance with the character of growth

of the district can be adopted for proposing the future development of the region.

Thus, the population projected for 2041 is highest as per the moving average method

which is 15,129,929. The population projected by the proportion method was the least

which is 9,531,464.

Figure 1-1-41: Population Projection

Population projection of Coimbatore region as per the growth rate for 2041 is done

using induced method. As one of the main focus of this plan is to sustain employment

and agriculture, the induced method is adopted to project the workers population

which will also increase with the proposal of the Defence Corridor and IT cluster in

the region. Population of total Coimbatore region was 89,24,235 in year 2011 which

is projected to 1,05,25,265 in year 2021, 1,22,09,439 in year 2031 and 1,38,64,436 in

year 2041 as given in Table 4. According to the projected population, urban

population percentage of the Coimbatore region will continuously increase to 69.20,

73.02, 75.86 in year 2021, 2031 and 2041 respectively. So, there is need to focus on

the urban areas to tackle this increasing population

Table 1-10: Population Projection of the Coimbatore Region(2021-2041)

POPULATION PROJECTION OF COIMBATORE REGION (2021-2041)

REGION / SUB

-REGION

2021 2031 2041


COIMBATORE 38,29,766 8,07,759 30,22,007 42,32,687 8,10,723 34,21,964 46,06,999 8,20,407 37,86,592

5,000,000

7,000,000

9,000,000

11,000,000

13,000,000

15,000,000

17,000,000

2011 2021 2031 2041

Normal

Growth

Rate

Moving

Average

Proportio

n

Artithmeti

c

Geometric

Induced


64

NILGIRIS 8,01,894 3,13,158 4,88,736 8,88,257 3,38,139 5,50,118 9,77,005 3,66,943 6,10,062

TIRUPPUR 32,88,863 10,27,274 22,61,589 41,94,019 11,09,080 30,84,939 50,65,993 11,53,182 39,12,811

ERODE 26,04,742 10,93,375 15,11,368 28,94,476 10,35,489 18,58,988 32,14,439 10,05,594 22,08,845

TOTAL

REGION 1,05,25,265 32,41,566 72,83,699 1,22,09,439 32,93,431 89,16,008 1,38,64,436 33,46,126 1,05,18,310

According to the projected population growth rate of the Coimbatore region, it will

first increase from 17.2 in 2001-2011 to 17.9 in 2011-2021 and start decreasing to 16

in 2021-2031 and 13.6 in 2031-2041 as given in Table 5. In year 1991-2001 rural

population growth rate was -30.5 which is 1.4 in year 2001-2011 and become constant

to 1.6 in year 2011-2021, 2021-2031 and 2031-2041. Urban population growth rate is

continuously decreasing from 122.4 in year 1991-2001 to 18 in year 2031-2041. In

subregion Tiruppur has highest projected population growth rate till 2031-2041 year.

1.9.1 Proposed Settlement Structure

Table 1-11: Population Growth Rate of Coimbatore Region from 1991-2041

Figure 1-1-42: Population Growth Rate from 1991-2001 to 2031-2041

16.5 17.2

17.9 16.0 13.6

122.4

28.3 27.0 22.4 18.0

-30.5

1.4 1.6 1.6 1.6

-40

-20

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

1991-2001 2001-11 2011-21 2021-31 2031-41

TOTAL URBAN RURAL

GROWTH RATE OF COIMBATORE REGION (1991-2041) (%)

STATE /

DISTRICT

1991-2001 2001-2011 2011-2021 2021-31 2031-2041

TOTAL RURAL URBAN TOTAL RURAL URBAN TOTAL RURAL URBAN TOTAL RURAL URBAN TOTAL RURAL URBAN

COIMBATORE 17.0 -50.3 166.8 18.6 -1.8 27.0 10.7 -3.7 15.4 10.5 0.4 13.2 8.8 1.2 10.7

NILGIRIS 7.3 -13.8 28.6 -3.5 -2.5 -4.2 9.0 4.5 12.2 10.8 8.0 12.6 10.0 8.5 10.9

TIRUPPUR 25.3 -12.5 119.4 29.1 0.2 57.7 32.7 7.2 48.7 27.5 8.0 36.4 20.8 4.0 26.8

ERODE 11.8 -24.3 122.7 11.7 6.3 17.3 15.7 0.0 30.5 11.1 -5.3 23.0 11.1 -2.9 18.8

CBE REGION 16.5 -30.5 122.4 17.2 1.4 28.3 17.9 1.6 27.0 16.0 1.6 22.4 13.6 1.6 18.0


65

Over the period of 1991 to 2011, the growth rate of total population of Coimbatore

region has increased from 16.5% to 17.2%. Similarly, there is a gradual increase in

the percentage of urban population growth rate in Coimbatore region from 28.3% to

27%. This explains the concentration of social, economic and commercial activities in

towns and cities which have accelerated the rate of urbanization in the region.

Tiruppur has the highest urban population growth rate of 57.7% as per the 2011

census. Based on the population projection for 2011-2041, it is expected that the

urban population growth rate of Coimbatore region will increase steadily. Similarly,

Tiruppur will have the highest growth rate in terms of urban population in the region

followed by Erode.

The subsequent decades show an increasing trend of urban population and declining

growth of percentage of population added to urban areas. This trend has been

observed for the state of Tamil Nadu due to high rate of urbanisation and declining

fertility rate. The additional urban population from 2011-2041 is 47,84,593 for

Coimbatore region. Tiruppur has the highest additional urban population of 23,91,665

due to high urban growth rate.

Table 1-12: Average population of Urban Settlements

Average Population of Urban Settlements (2041)

Region / Sub-

Region Class I Class II Class III Class IV Class V Class VI

Total region 2,34,222 66,392 30,443 15,187 13,973 10,379

Coimbatore 2,86,353 54,531 30,692 14,521 14,640 12,534

Nilgiris 1,00,968 64,476 27,098 15,640 16,810 7,782

Tiruppur 2,39,189 78,607 32,111 16,604 13,305 12,905

Erode 1,42,100 50,548 29,500 15,479 10,306 9,559

The additional urban population has been distributed in the existing and projected

urban settlements. The composition of urban settlements and the average urban

population of each sub-region was projected for the year 2041. The following criteria

have been determined for distribution of additional urban population:

a)60% of the additional urban population will be distributed in the existing urban

settlements

b)The remaining 40% of the population will be disbursed in the existing villages with

a population of more than 5,000 and growth rate of 20%


66

The villages which were considered under these criteria have been classified under

Class V and Class VI towns. Despite of satisfying the census criteria for population

these villages have been classified as Class V and Class VI towns due to other factors

such as development and provision of basic amenities and services.

Table 1-13: Composition of Urban Settlements (2041)

Composition of Urban Settlements (2041)

Region / Sub-

Region Class I Class II Class III Class IV Class V Class VI

Total region 46,84,441 22,57,331 27,70,275 13,36,497 4,61,120 2,17,963

Coimbatore 20,04,474

2,72,657

9,82,156

5,66,304 1,31,758

75,205

Nilgiris

1,00,968 1,93,427 81,293

1,56,398 1,34,482

46,690

Tiruppur

21,52,697 13,36,315

6,74,335 1,49,439 1,33,046 38,714

Erode

4,26,301 4,54,932 10,32,492

4,64,356 61,835

57,354

Table 1-14: Composition of proposed urban settlements (2041)

Composition of Proposed Urban Settlements (2041)

Region / Sub-

Region

Class

I

Class

II

Class

III

Class

IV Class V

Class

VI Total

Total region 20 34 91 88 33 21 287

Coimbatore 7 5 32 39 9 6 98

Nilgiris 1 3 3 10 8 6 31

Tiruppur 9 17 21 9 10 3 69

Erode 3 9 35 30 6 6 89

Considering the above mentioned criteria, the additional population has been

distributed in the existing urban settlements as well as the projected settlements. Only

the existing Class II to Class VI settlements have been adopted for this process. The

preceding table explains the increase in the number of settlements in Class II and

Class III categories in the Coimbatore region for the year 2041. Subsequently, the


67

same trend has been observed in Tiruppur which has the highest number of urban

settlements in Class II and Class III categories.

In the proposed settlement structure as shown in the map below, Class I towns are

concentrated in Coimbatore, Tiruppur and Erode due to the increasing decadal growth

of urban population. Also, the urbanization rate of Tiruppur sub region will increase

from 60-69% to more than 70% in 2041 which will further add to the development of

future settlements. The proposed investment in these sub regions will also add to the

emergence of the future urban settlements. Proposed Class II and Class III towns have

increased in Tiruppur district based on the composition of urban settlements in 2041.

Erode district has the second highest decadal urban growth rate of 18.8% from 2031-

2041 which can be seen in the emergence of new class III towns in the sub region.

Consequently, the number of proposed Class III and Class IV towns have been

concentrated in Erode district as the urbanization rate of the sub region has increased

from 50-59% to 60-69%. In the Nilgiris sub region, though the investments are

proposed in the existing settlement structure and also the sub region will grow from

low to high urbanization category, the future growth of settlements will occur in the

western part of the sub region because of the development of the agricultural

activities.


68

Figure 1-43: Comparison of Proposed Urban Settlements and Urbanization Rate in Coimbatore

Region (2041)


69

1.10 Institutional Set Up of Coimbatore Region

In India, various forms of local governance have existed in different parts of the

country since the ancient history but the modern and existing system of governance

and institutional set up can traced back to the British era through the enactment of the

various acts related to the Municipal governance. The first example of local self-

governance since the British era can be seen in Tamil Nadu through the enactment of

the Madras Municipal Corporation Act, 1919, first of its kind in India. Thus, the

establishment of the governance structure in Tamil Nadu was functional since the

British era.

1.10.1 Acts

The Madras City Municipal Corporation Act, 1919

The Madras Municipal Corporation Act was passed on 24th

June 1919 with the

objective of establishing Municipal governance for Chennai Municipal Corporation

area. The act made provisions for the constitution and composition of the Municipal

Corporation, Mayor ,Councilors and the Ward Committees. The act also focused on

the power to acquire land for development works.

Tamil Nadu District Municipality Act, 1920

The Tamil Nadu District Municipality Act was adopted in 1920 which extended to

Presidency of Madras except Madras city. This act empowered Councils to elect their

own Chairman and frame their own budgets, reducing control to a minimum and

giving all rate payers including women the right to vote and seek elections. It also

dealt with the subjects of public health and safety, levy of property taxes, profession

tax and pilgrim taxes.

The Madras Town Planning Act, 1920

The Madras Town Planning Act,1920 passed by the then Government of Madras

persuaded by Patrick Geddes and Lanchester, town planning advisors for the British

Government. It was the first time that urban issues were included in urban policy.

This act shaped the development schemes for Municipal and other local areas within

urban centers. There was assigned use of land parcels and regulations were specified

to supervise each type of development. For the areas not included in the act, Madras

Municipal Corporation adopted a set of rules to control the development and land use

was given secondary consideration.

Tamil Nadu Panchayat Act, 1958


70

The Tamil Nadu Panchayat Act was adopted after recommendation from the Balwant

Rai Mehta Committee Report which recommended for the establishment of a three

tier system for Panchayati Raj. Thus, this act paved the way for the establishment of

the Village Panchayats across the state. The villages that had urban character were

classified as Town Panchayats in this act. Panchayat Unions were formed constituted

by all Village and Town Panchayats within a Block. District Boards were replaced by

the District Development Council as advisory bodies for each development district.

Town and Country Planning Act, 1971

This act came into existence in 1971 by replacing Madras Town Planning Act, 1920

which was applicable to only urban areas. The jurisdiction of this act was extended to

both urban and rural areas. Initially, the planning functions were bestowed with the

urban local bodies as per Madras Town Planning Act, 1920. The T & CP act took

away the planning functions and entrusted them to specialized planning authorities

such as CMDA (Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority), Local Planning

Authorities (LPAs) and New Town Development Authorities. It provides for the

notification of the areas and the constitution of the planning and the development

authorities like CMDA, preparation and implementation of the Master Plans, Detailed

Development Plans and enforcement of development control regulations. This act

extends to the state of Tamil Nadu as a whole except for the areas declared to be

cantonments under section 3 of the Cantonments Act, 1924.


71

Figure 1-44: Institutional Set up of Town and Country Planning Board21

The Act also gave provisions for the constitution of the following:

Appointment of the Director of Town and Country Planning and other offices- the

director of the department should be appointed under this act with other required

officers.

Composition of the Town and Country Planning Authorities-There should be

constitution of the following three classes of authorities:

The regional planning authority,

The local planning authority,

The new town development authority

21 Source: Town and Country Planning Act,1971


72

Constitution of the Board

The Government may constitute a board under this act headed by the Chairman who

is the Minister in charge of the Town and Country Planning Department. The Board

under the Chairman will constitute 13 different heads under which it will be governed.

This may include the minister in charge of the Local administration, Secretaries to the

Government, Chairman of the Tamil Nadu Housing Board and Tamil Nadu Slum

Clearance Board, Chief Engineers, Ministers as appointed by the Government, a

member from Tamil Nadu Electricity Board, Director and Joint Director of Town and

Country Planning, MPs, MLAs, President of the Chamber of Municipal Corporations

and Tamil Nadu Panchayat Union Associations and a Member Secretary either

Director of Town and Country Planning or an Officer as appointed by the

Government.

Functions and Powers of the Board

The functions of the Board as subjected to the provisions of this act, under Section 10

Sub Section 1 part (a) is to guide, direct and assist the Planning Authorities in the

preparation of the development plans, to assist and encourage the authorities in the

data collection and maintenance, publication of statistics, monographs, bulletins and

the planning methodology. This may also include the preparation and furnishing of

the reports related to the working of the act.

Provisions for the Regional Plan

The regional planning area as per the provisions in the Town & Country Planning act,

1971 can be declared on the basis of the population prescribed for consideration of the

area into a region and the development of the area for industrial or commercial

purposes.

Constitution of the Regional Planning Authority

As the regional planning area is constituted, a Regional Planning Authority should be

formed in consultation with the Director, for the purpose of the performance of the

functions as discussed under Section 11and sub section 1 (constitution of the regional

planning area) and sub section 2 (constitution of the regional planning authority). The

Authority shall comprise of:


73

Figure 1-45: Institutional Set up for Regional Planning Authority as per T&CP Act,197122

Planning Authority

The functions of the Regional Planning Authority is to carry out the survey of the

regional planning area and to prepare a report for the same. The existing land use map

and the other maps related for the plan should be prepared by the authority. The

Regional Plan as a whole should be prepared by the authority and should also carry

out other works as contemplated in the Master Plan and Detailed Development Plan.

Deficiencies of the Act

After the constitution of the Town and Country Planning Act, 1971, a regional plan

was prepared for the Coimbatore Region in 1974 which was classified under the eight

planning regions across Tamil Nadu. After the plan preparation in 1974, there was no

regional plan preparation for the Coimbatore region as the Regional Planning Board

and the Regional Planning Authority is still not constituted by the Government. Under

the provision given in Section 17 of the Town and Country Planning Act,1971, the

Master Plan should be prepared for the local planning area in consultation with

Regional Planning Authority which is not existing in the state. Thus due to the lack of

implementation of the regional plan prepared because of the absence of the Regional

Planning Authority, there is no linkage between the state proposals for urban and rural

local bodies. As Tamil Nadu is the fastest urbanizing state in India with 48.4% people

living in urban areas as per 2011 census and the growth of the Class I to Class VI

cities is increasing in a rapid manner, there is a need for the establishment of the

Regional Planning Authority to regulate the development through the regional plan

preparation.

Tamil Nadu Panchayat Act, 1994

22 Source: Town and Country Planning Act, 1971


74

After the passing of the 73rd

Constitutional Amendments in 1992, the Tamil Nadu

Panchayat Act, 1958 was amended in 1994 to constitute the conformity legislation for

the amendment. This act dealt only with the rural areas and the Town Panchayats

were reassigned as urban local bodies. This act brought the three tier Panchayat Raj

system in Tamil Nadu. The members of the three tiers of the rural local bodies and the

Village Panchayat Presidents were directly elected whereas the Chairpersons of the

Panchayat Union Council and District Panchayats were elected from among the

elected ward members. All the three tiers of Panchayat are independent of each other.

The act also states the devolution of the funds, functionaries and the functions as

assigned for all the tiers. As per the Section 241 of the Tamil Nadu Panchayat Act

1994, the provision for the formation of the District Planning Committee is also stated

to consolidate the plans prepared by the District Panchayat, Panchayat Unions,

Village Panchayats, Town Panchayats, Municipal Councils and Municipal

Corporations. They are also endowed with the responsibility to prepare a draft

development plan for the district as a whole.

Environment Protection Act, 1986

The EPA Act, is a landmark legislation which provides for single focus in the country

for protection of environment and aims at plugging the loopholes in existing

legislation. It provides mainly for pollution control, with stringent penalties for

violations.

Indian Forest Act, 1927

The Indian Forest Act was enacted on 21st September, 1927 to preserve and safeguard

the forests in India. The Act makes various provisions for such conservation of forests

and in the scheme it provides for a State Government to constitute any forest lands or

waste lands, which are property of Government over which the Government have

proprietary rights, a reserved forest.

Forest Conservation Act, 1980

The Act came into force on the 25th day of October, 1980 and extends to the whole of

India except the State of Jammu and Kashmir. The purpose of the act is to arrest

rampant deforestation. The Coimbatore region contributes to 14% of the total forest

area of the state, conservation of which is achieved through the two main objectives

of this act namely the restriction on the use of forest land for non-forest purposes and

to control de-reservation of forests that have been reserved under the Indian Forest

Act 1927.

The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers ( Recognition of

Forest Rights Act), 2006


75

Also been called the Forest Rights Act, the Tribal Rights Act, the Tribal Bill, and the

Tribal Land Act, this act was enacted on 31st December, 2007. As the region shares

17.22% of the ST population of Tamil Nadu of which The Nilgiris district has the

highest percentage of the ST population of 37.08% within the region because of tribal

communities in the forests of the hilly sub-region, it is necessary to enforce laws that

are concerned with the rights of forest-dwelling communities regarding land and other

resources, that are denied to them over decades as a result of the continuance of

colonial forest laws in India.

1.10.2 Administration

This section is focused on the establishment of the institutional framework for the

Regional Planning Authority as per Town and Country Planning Act, 1971. The

framework is based on the concept of the Spatial Data Infrastructure.The SDI

provides a basis for spatial data discovery, evaluation, and application for users and

providers within all levels of government, the commercial sector, the non-profit

sector, academia and by citizens in general.It denotes base collection of technologies,

policies and institutional arrangements that facilitate the availability of and access to

spatial data. It supports sustainable economic, social, and environmental development.

Thus, following the concept of spatial data infrastructure in the governance process of

the Regional Planning Authority, the governance should be in accordance with the

following steps of plan preparation, plan implementation, plan monitoring and plan

evaluation. The SDI focuses on integrating all the stages of planning, from

preparation to evaluation thus providing transparency and proper linkages within all

the stages of plan preparation along with availability and access to spatial data.


76

Figure 1-46: Plan Preparation as per Spatial Data Infrastructure

Figure 1-47: Plan Implementation as per Spatial Data Infrastructure


77

Figure 1-49: Plan Evaluation as per Spatial Data Infrastructure

Figure 1-48: Plan Monitoring As per Spatial Data Infrastructure

The spatial data infrastructure focuses on the micro to meso level of planning by

involving the stake holders from the ward level to the regional level with the

respected planning authorities involved for the preparation of the plans at each level.

In the plan preparation process as discussed above, involves four levels i.e. regional,

district, urban and ward level. This will involve the authorities in charge for the

formulation of the plan. The Regional Planning Authority is responsible for the

preparation of the regional plan, District Planning Committee for district plan, the

Metropolitan Development Authority and the Town and Country Planning

Department for the metro and non-metro cities for master plan and the Urban Local

Bodies for the ward level plans. The second level of plan preparation involves the

stake holders who are usually the district heads for the region and districts and the city

head for the cities and the wards. The Town Planner is involved at each level who will

be the main head of the technical aspect of plan preparation. The parastatal


78

departments are the parallel departments which are the sectors which are involved

with the provision of the infrastructure and other amenities. They are directly

involved in the plan preparation as they are the key role players. The elected

representatives of the planning regions i.e. the MPs and MLAs are also involved as

they directly represents the public who are the main beneficiaries from the plan. The

representatives of the NGOs, trade unions, agriculture and industries are also

included.

The Plan implementation at the regional level is done by the respective Development

Authority and Metropolitan Development Authority at the urban level and the

Panchayat Raj Department at the rural level. The Block Development Officer and the

Panchayat Union Secretary for the rural and the Town Planning Officer and the Town

Panchayat Secretary for the urban will look after the implementation of the district

level plans under the District Planning Committee. At the urban level, the

implementation of the master plan is carried out by the Head Development Authority

for the metro cities and the Head of the State Town Planning Department for the non-

metro cities along with the parastatal departments. The Town Planning Officer of the

ULBs and the Zonal Officers of the parastatal departments will implent the plan

prepared at the ward level.

The plan monitoring at the regional level is done by the Regional Development

Authority along with the Development Authorities at the urban and the Panchayat Raj

department at the rural level with the parastatal agency. The districts plans are

monitored by the District Planning Committees under the same heads as for the

regional level. The Metro Politan Development Authority and the State Town and

Country Planning Department for the metro and the non-metro cities will monitor the

urban level plans along with the para-statal agencies. The Municipal Corporation and

the Municipalities are the ley monitoring agencies for the ward level plans.

The evaluation of the plan should be carried out by the external agencies. As the

beneficiaries of the plan implementation will be the public thus the plan evaluation

should involve the retired bureaucrats and officials from the para-statal departments,

gram sabha members, elected representatives from the government, the educational

institutions, environmental organizations and the NGOs.


79

Table 1-15: Spatial Data Infrastructure

SPATIAL DATA INFRASTRUCTURE

LEVELS /

ACTIVITIES

REGIONAL LEVEL

DISTRICT LEVEL

URBAN LEVEL

WARD LEVEL

PLAN

PREPARATION

A. AUTHORITY

Regional Planning

Authority

District Planning

Committee

A). Metro Cities :

Metropolitan

Development Authority

B). Non - Metro Cities :

State Town & Country

Planning Department

Urban Local Bodies

(Municipal

Corporation ,

Municipalities)

B. STAKE HOLDER

1. District

collector‟s

2. Deputy

Collector‟s

3. District Planning

Officer

4. Town Planner

from respective

Local Planning

1. District collector

2. Deputy Collector

3. Tehsildar / Revenue

Officer

4. Town Planning

officer

5. Block Development

officer

1. District collector

2. Mayor /

Commissioner

3. Town Planning

officer from urban

local bodies

4. Town Planner

from Town and

1. Mayor /

Commissioner

2. Town Planning

officer

3. from urban

local bodies

4. Public

Participatory


80

Area

5. Parastatal

Departments

6. Elected

Representatives

7. Non-

Governmental

Organisation

8. Trade Unions

9. All Industrial

Development

Agencies

10. Agricultural

Representatives

6. Parastatal

Departments

7. Non-Governmental

Organisation

8. Trade Unions

9. Industrial

Development

Agencies

10. Agricultural

Representatives

11. Urban – Mayor

12. Rural – Panchayat

union President

Country Planning

Department

5. Parastatal

Departments

6. Non-

Governmental

Organisation

7. Trade Unions

8. Industrial

Development

Agencies

9. Agricultural

Representatives

10. Public

Participatory

5. Elected ward

representative

6. Parastatal

Departments

7. Trade Unions

8. Industrial

Development

Agencies

LEVELS /

ACTIVITIES

REGIONAL LEVEL

DISTRICT LEVEL

URBAN LEVEL

WARD LEVEL

Urban

A). Metro Cities :

Metropolitan

District Planning

Committee

A). Rural :

1.Urban

A). Metro Cities : Head


i) Town Planning

Officer

(Municipal

Corporation /


81

2. PLAN

IMPLEMENTATION




(along with Parastatal

department)

Rural

i) Panchayat Raj

Department

ii) Parastatal

Department

i) Block Development

Officer

ii) Panchayat Union

Secretary

B). Urban :

i) Town Planning

Officer (Municipal

Corporation /

Municipalities)

ii) Town Panchayat

Secretary

(Technical)


Head of State Town

Planning Department

(Technical)

2. Head of Parastatal

Department

Municipalities)

ii) Zonal officers of

all Parastatal

Department

3. PLAN

MONITORING

1. Regional Planning

Authority along

with

implementing

agencies

i) Urban

Development

Authorities

1. District Planning

Committee

i) Urban

Development Authorities

ii) Rural

Panchayat Raj

Department

A). Metro Cities :

Metropolitan



State Town & Country

Planning Department

(along with implementing

agencies)

Municipal

Corporation and

Municipalities

through implementing

agencies along with

Parastatal department


82

ii) Rural

Panchayat Raj

Department


Departments


Departments


Department

LEVELS /

ACTIVITIES

REGIONAL LEVEL

DISTRICT LEVEL

URBAN LEVEL

WARD LEVEL

4. PLAN

EVALUATION

1. Grama Sabha

Members

(Rural)

2. Retired

Bureaucrats

3. Retired officials

from Parastatal

Departments

4. Educational

1. Grama Sabha

Members (Rural)

2. Retired Bureaucrats


from Parastatal

Departments

4. Educational

Institutions

5. Elected

1. Retired

Bureaucrats


from

3. Parastatal

Departments

4. Educational

Institutions

5. Elected

1. Retired

Bureaucrats

2. Retired

officials from

Parastatal

Departments

3. Educational

Institutions

4. Local


83

Institutions

5. Elected

Representatives

6. Non-

Governmental

Organisations

7. Environmental

Organisations

Representatives

6. Non-Governmental

Organisations

7. Environmental

Organisations

Representatives

6. Non-

Governmental

Organisations

7. Environmental

Organisations

interested

groups

5. Elected

Representative

s

5.SCALE 1:2,50,000-1:50,000 1:50,000-1:25,000 1:10,000-1:8,000 1:5000-1:1,000


84

Proposed Institutional Set Up for the Regional Planning Authority

In section 11 and sub- section 2 of the Town and Country Planning Act, 1972 mentions

about the provisions for the Constitution of the Regional Planning Authority for the

monitoring of the preparation of the Regional Plan. At present there is no such authority

existing in the state for governing the preparation of the regional plan. Thus, in the

following section, the proposed institutional framework broadly explains the constituents

of the Regional Planning Authority, as per the provisions given in the Town and Country

Planning Act, 1971 under Section 11 and sub section 1, specifically mentioning the

further sub divisions in the institutional set up.

Figure 1-50: Proposed Institutional Set up for the Regional Planning Authority


85

The proposed framework for the authority will be headed by the Chairman who will be

the Minister in charge of the region as appointed by the Government. Under the

Chairman will be a team constituting of 10 main heads. A member Secretary will be

appointed by the Government who shall be the Senior Administrative Officer. This will

be followed by the appointment of the Deputy Director of the Town and Country

Planning Department of the region. The District Collectors of the sub regions will also be

the member of the authority. A Planner will be appointed who will be incharge of the

plan preparation, monitoring and implementation process. 4 members of the local

authorities functioning as a whole or any part of the region will be appointed who will be

the Mayor of the largest ULB, Zila Parishad Chairman, the District Planner of the largest

district and the Town Planner form the Town and Country Planning Department. 3 other

members who will be a part of the Government will be appointed who will be the MLAs

and MPs of the constituencies coming in the region. The authority will also be include

representatives from Industrial, Agriculture, Trade Unions and NGOs.

Functions of the proposed Regional Planning Authority

The functions of the Regional Planning Authority as alluded in section 12 sub-section 1

part-A of the Town and Country Planning Act, 1971 are as follows:

To prepare Regional Plan for 10 Years for the demarcated regions.

To review the regional plan on 5 year basis.

To advice the District Planning Committees to prepare the district spatial plans.

To approve the district spatial plans.

To take decisions on the integrated district planning issues.

To monitor and evaluate the execution and plan implementation by District

Planning Committees and Local Authority.

To prepare budget for the Authority.

1.10.3 Finance

The funding and investment for a region depends on the priority needs of the developed

areas. This section summarizes investments required for creation of infrastructural assets

and interventions required for the implementation of the project. The investment for the

Coimbatore region is summarized under the investment through the Tamil Nadu Vision

2023, Central funded schemes, State funded schemes and State Finance Commission.

The Tamil Nadu Vision 2023 has proposed huge investments in the transportation sector,

industrial sector, agriculture and tourism sector of the region. The Six/Eight lane


86

Triangular Corridor connecting Coimbatore to Thoothukudi and Chengalpet developed

by the Tamil Nadu Road Development Corporation, high speed rail link connecting

Coimbatore to Chennai and Madurai, the expansion of the Coimbatore Airport and mass

public transit system for Coimbatore and Tiruppur will bring about an investment of Rs

85000 Cr in the Coimbatore region in transportation sector facilitating the industrial

growth in future in terms of labour migration and the export of the products. The

Coimbatore Salem Industrial Corridor focusing on Manufacturing and Business

Investment region both as agri based investment and industrial region focusing on textiles

and engineering industries, industrial parks for small scale industries will bring a total

investment of Rs14,625 Cr in the industrial sector facilitating the development of the

region as budding industrial hub. The infrastructure support for dairy processing, agro

food processing industry, poultry production, integrated post-harvest supply chain, Center

of Excellence, Horticulture food processing center for Erode, Horticulture Development

Programme for Erode and The Nilgiris and Programme for soil quality improvement and

wasteland rehabilitation for the development of agricultural practices will bring an

investment of Rs4526 Cr for the development of agriculture sector of the sub region. The

investment of about Rs 1150 Cr in the health sector for the region is expected to emerge

via establishment of the Centers for Excellence for Cancer Cure, Global Quality Nursing

and Paramedical training institutes and the Medi City at Perundarai in Erode which is

required for the development of the region as an industrial hub. The enhancement of the

skills of the workers will be focused through the establishment of the knowledge hub and

the Entrepreneurship Development Center for SME in Coimbatore fill bring an

investment of Rs 1540 Cr for upgrading the ability of the workforce to support in the

development of the region. The development of the region as an industrial hub will

initiate the inflow of tourists adding to the present scenario. Thus, World Class Tourism

and Hospitality Training Center and infrastructure development in places of tourists

interest in The Nilgiris district will bring an investment of Rs 280 Cr in tourism sector.

The investment of Rs 1500 Cr in the energy sector through the upgradation of Kundah

Pumped Storage Project in The Nilgiris will facilitate the provision of the required energy

for the industrial development of the region. The proposal of developing Coimbatore and

Tiruppur as World Class Cities will further bring an investment of Rs 23400 for the

development of the region.

Table 1-16: Financing as per Tamil Nadu Vision 2023

Strategy Scheme/Policy/Programme Investment

(Rs. in

Crores)

Implementation Agency


87

Highway,

Bridges

and by pass

sector

Six/Eight lane Triangular

Corridor : Thoothukudi-

Coimbatore Alignment

Rs 5000

Tamil Nadu Road

Development Corporation

Six/Eight lane Triangular

Corridor : Coimbatore-

Chengalpet

Alignment

Rs 9000

Tamil Nadu Road


Railways Madurai Coimbatore high

speed rail link Rs 23,000

Indian Railways

Coimbatore-Chennai high

speed rail link Rs 45,000

Indian Railways

Airport Expansion of Coimbatore

Airport Rs 3000

Airport Authority of India

and Transport Department,

Govt. of Tamil Nadu

Industry Coimbatore-Salem

Industrial Corridor-

Manufacturing and Business

Investment Region :

Manufacturing and Business

Investment Region –I & II

I in Coimbatore and

Tiruppur

Rs 7,200

State Industries Promotion

Corporation of Tamil Nadu

(SIPCOT)

Coimbatore-Salem

Industrial Corridor- Agri

Business Investment Region

(ABIR)

Rs 4,800



(SIPCOT)

Coimbatore- Madurai

Industrial Corridor( The

Corridor will cover the

districts of

Coimbatore,Tiruppur,

Dindigul and Madurai)

Engineering and textile

industries in Coimbatore

Rs 2500



(SIPCOT)


88

and Tiruppur

Industrial Parks for SME‟s (

Tiruppur & Coimbatore) Rs 125

SIDCO, Govt of Tamil Nadu

Mass Public Transit

Systems for Madurai and

Coimbatore ,Tiruppur,

Salem and Trichy

Rs 20,000

Transport

Department/CUMTA/CMRL

Infrastructure Support for

Agro food processing

industry (Coimbatore,

Erode, Nilgiris)

Rs 624

TNAU, Agriculture

Department- Department of

AM&AB

Infrastructure for Dairy

Processing Rs 583

Animal Husbandry, Dairy

and Fisheries Department

Integrated Post Harvest

Supply Chain Establishment

including Tiruppur,

Coimbatore ,Erode & The

Nilgiris

Rs 2500

Agriculture Department,

Department of AM & AB

Infrastructure for poultry

processing Rs 306

Animal Husbandry, Dairy

and Fisheries Department

Centers for Excellence foe

Cancer Cure Rs 100

Health and Family welfare

Department, Govt of Tamil

Nadu

Establishment of five Global

Quality Nursing and Para

medical Training Institutes

Rs 50

Private Education

Institutions

Knowledge hub in

Coimbatore Rs 325

Tamil Nadu industrial


Enhancing Employability

skills of Engineering

students-Coimbatore

Rs 1200

Anna University, Chennai

Entrepreneurship

Development Center for

Rs 15 Cr

per center

Department of Higher

education, Department of


89

SME-Coimbatore Industry, Tamil Nadu Skill

Development Mission,

Tamil Nadu Corporation for

Development of Women,

ILO

Center of Excellence for

Agricultural Practices Rs 500

TNAU under Agricultural

Department

World Class cities

Programme-

Coimbatore-Tiruppur(

Water Suppy, Water

Sources,Waste

Water,Sanitation, Solid

Waste,Urban Transport,

Other services, Housing)

Rs 23400

Irrigation Canals Lining of

major canals in Tamil Nadu

(Erode)

Rs 5000

Public Works Department

Horticulture food processing

centre

Horticulture Development

Programme (Erode)

Rs 400 TNAU, Horticulture

Department

Medi city

at

Perundurai

(Erode)

Establishment of Medi cities

at Perundurai and Madurai

Rs 1000

Health and Family Welfare

Department, Interested

private sector

Kundah Pumped Storage

Project

(Nilgiris)

Rs 1500 TANGEDCO


90

World Class Tourism and

Hospitality Training

center(Nilgiris)

Rs 200 Department of Tourism,

Govt of Tamil Nadu

Infrastructure development

in places of tourist

interest(Nilgiris)

Rs 78.125 Department of Tourism,

Govt of Tamil Nadu

Programme for Soil Quality

Improvement and Wasteland

Rehabilitation

Rs 62.5 Agriculture Department

Horticulture Development

Programme ( Nilgiris) Rs 12.5 Agriculture Department

Some Central and State funded schemes are introduced in the region for the economic

development. The promotion of the traditional industries and tourism through the „Make

in India‟ initiative will bring investments through Foreign Direct Investment to initiate

economic growth and promotion of Indian products. The Ministry of Tourism,

Government of India has initiated Rural Tourism Schemes and Eco Tourism Schemes for

promotion of tourism and capacity building for the same. An additional aid for

development of tourism is given through the financial support to commerce, trade and

industry organizations for organizing tourism related activities. As per the Tamil Nadu

Tourism Policy of 2016-17, an aid of Rs 450 Cr is given to The Nilgiris by The Asian

Development Bank-IDIPT project for development of tourism infrastructure.

As per the 5th

State Finance Commission, the collection of the vacant land tax and the

property tax for the ULB‟s was stated. The peri-urban panchayat were classified for the

areas within 5 km radius from the Corporation area to levy vacant land taxes for all the

housing sites vacant other than agricultural land. Also, GIS-based property tax

assessment as per Tamil Nadu Sustainable Urban Development project was initiated.

Table 1-17: Financing as per Central, State funded schemes and State Finance Commission

Strategy Scheme/Policy/Programme Investment

(Rs. in Crores)

Implementation

Agency

Central & State funded Schemes

Promotion of Make in India Initiative FDI Multiple


91

traditional

industries

departments

Promotion of

Eco-tourism Make in India Initiative FDI

Ministry of

Tourism

Tourism

awareness and

capacity building

Scheme of capacity building

for service providers for

rural tourism

0.2 Ministry of

Tourism,

Government of

India

Financial support

to commerce,

trade and

industry

organizations for

organizing

tourism and

tourism related

events

Financial support to

Tourism related activities

Financial

assistance

should not

exceed 50% of

the cost of the

event

(Ministry of

Tourism, Publicity,

Events and IT

Division)

Project for

transport,

physical

infrastructure,

SEZs,etc.

Scheme for support to

Public Private Partnerships

in Infrastructure (Viability

Gap Funding)

Rs 100 Cr State Finance

Minister, PPP

Infrastructure

development

investment

programme for

Tourism (The

Nilgiris)

Asian Development Bank –

IDIPT Project

(Infrastructure Development

Investment Programme for

Tourism) – Tamil Nadu

Tourism Policy (2016-17)

Rs 450 Cr

Ministry of

Tourism, Govt of

India

5th

State Finance Commission

Peri Urban

Panchayats

As per the 5th

state finance

commission, the tax

collected can be utilized by

the ULB for development.

ULBs

Vacant Land Tax ULBs

Property Tax

Assessment as

per Tamil Nadu

GIS based ULBs of Erode and

Ooty


92

Sustainable

Urban

development

Project

(TNSUDP)

24x7 Pressurized

water supply

Revamping of distribution

system

Coimbatore

Municipal

Corporation

Energy

Efficiency

To replace fluorescent tube

lights with LED light

fixtures

Tiruppur

Municipal

Corporation


93

2. CHAPTER-CONSTITUENTS OF THE REGION

This chapter intends to introduce the sub regions included in the Coimbatore regional

plan. Coimbatore region is located in the north-western part of Tamil Nadu, comprises of

Coimbatore, Erode, Tiruppur and the Nilgiris districts as a sub-region. Each sub-region

has a distinct character and thus focus on various priorities in terms of development.

Coimbatore, Erode and Salem are a part of greater conurbation. According to a proposal

on Coimbatore-Salem Industrial Corridor in Tamil Nadu Vision 2023, Salem is

considered to be the part of the urban continuum despite not being regionally demarcated

as a part of the Coimbatore region. Coimbatore region accounts for 14.02% and 12.37%

of the Tamil Nadu state area and population wise, respectively. Coimbatore once known

as the cotton Manchester of India is also famous for its educational institutions in the

southern part of India. Erode is well known for the manufacturing of automobile parts

and machines as well as for its geo-tagged turmeric export (domestic and overseas) while

Tiruppur is known as the knitwear capital of India. Nilgiris is known for its scenic beauty

but most importantly it is the part of western Ghats eco-sensitive area and Biosphere

reserve. Introductory salient features of all the sub-regions of the Coimbatore region will

be explained in the subsequent paragraph.

2.1 Coimbatore Sub Region

Coimbatore district is the second largest urban agglomeration of Tamil Nadu and one of

the most industrialized districts of the state. It has been a major textile hub since 1930s

after the decline of the cotton industry in Mumbai. Geographically, district expands in

4723 sq.km area. Administratively the district is divided into 12 blocks and 10 taluks.

Coimbatore City is the administrative headquarters of the district which was listed as a

“Smart City” in 2015. Total population being 34,58,045 out of which 75.73% is urban

while remaining 24.27% is rural population, as per census 2011. It has 69 towns(18

census towns and 51 statutory tons), total 237 villages and Coimbatore City Municipal

Corporation Municipality. Coimbatore district is known as the “Manchester of South”

and the “Pump City of India”. It provides for 60% of water pump demand and 40% of

motor and wet grinder demand of the country. The district has 5 SEZs (Special Economic

Zones) and is the second largest producer of softwares in Tamil Nadu. Along with this

rapidly expanding industrial and economic centre, Coimbatore proudly treasures one of

the 8 “biodiversity hotspots” of the world, the Western Ghats. We know that, Coimbatore

as a district has high agricultural, industrial as well as economic potential that will lead to

urbanization. But it is imperative to control the direction of growth and make sure that


94

“mindless urbanization” does not lead to the saturation of the district and depletion of the

environment.

2.2 Tiruppur Sub Region

Tiruppur district was formed in October 2008 by carving out from Coimbatore and Erode

districts, in order to fulfill the aspiration s of the exporters, industrialist and people of the

tiruppur textile cluster. Geographically, district expands in 5187 sq.km area. In 2013, 2

taluks were added by re dividing the 7 existing taluks. There are 9 taluks, 297 villages

and 49 towns in Tiruppur district. It comprises of 3 revenue division and 13 blocks. Total

population being 2,479,052, as per census 2011. Out of total population, 61.36% people

lived in urban regions while 38.64% in rural areas. There was change of 29.11 percent in

the population compared to population as per 2001. Tiruppur City is the administrative

headquarters of the district which was listed as a “Smart City” in 2015. It is known as the

Knitwear Capital of India. In 2017, total knitwear export turnover accounts for 25000

crores and domestic turnover being 12000 crores. Tiruppur cluster contribution to total

knitwear export of India is 45%, for the year 2017. District sustain its cluster because of 2

distinctive unique features, i.e. Conjunctive location of all units of manufacturing of

Knitted apparel, in the industrialized area of district and Flexibility in production and

supply of finished goods from 300 to 3000000 quantity. Due to the alleviated industrial

development in the sub region, environment components are highly affected, example

being the detoriated condition of the non-perennial river Noyyal.

2.3 Erode Sub Region

Erode district, a part of this urban agglomeration, is heart of the continuous conurbation

of Coimbatore-Salem Industrial Corridor and a connection between the East coast and

west coast. It is the 6th largest district in terms of geographical area, being 5760 sq.km in

the state of Tamil Nadu. Administratively the district is divided into 14 blocks and 10

taluks. Erode City is the administrative headquarters of the district which was listed as a

“Smart City” in 2015. Total population being 22,51,744 out of which 51.42% is urban

while remaining 48.58% is rural population, as per census 2011. There are 59 towns(6

census towns and 53 statutory towns), total 306 villages and Erode city Municipal

Corporation. The district is also known as the “Turmeric Capital” of Tamil Nadu.

Economy of the district is dependent on both agricultural and industrial sectors. Textile,

turmeric and oil industries are the core industries of the district. Sathyamangalam Wild

life sanctuary and tiger reserve in Erode District provides the link between Eastern Ghats

and Western Ghats. It is also a major Tiger and Elephant Corridor hub. These forests


95

were declared as a wildlife sanctuary under the Wild Life Protection Act of 1972. It has

been considered as a part of the Nilgiris Biosphere reserve.

2.4 The Nilgiris Sub Region

Nilgiris is an environmentally sensitive district, dotted with forest cover (especially

sholas), tea estates and flora & fauna that are unique to Western Ghats eco system.

Nilgiris is surrounded by Kerala on the one side, Karnataka on the western and northern

side, and Coimbatore District on the Eastern side. Nilgiris with its population of 7,

35,394, as per census 2011 also attracts a huge floating population (tourists) during

winter season putting pressure on infrastructure. District has 17 urban centers, one

cantonment board, 35 villages spread over six talukas. Geographically, district expands in

2545 sq.km area. Udhagamandalam City is the administrative headquarters of the district.

There were two census towns present in the 2011 census. District has the highest sex ratio

in the state (1042). Considered as Queen of Hills in the past, Nilgiris has deteriorated

over the years in terms of environmental quality with frequent landslides, encroachment

and contamination of lake, reducing shola cover and above all increasing occurrence of

heat islands.


96

3. CHAPTER-SUMMARY

For all four sub-regions, different approach of study has been followed as the

characteristics and issues of all four district, vary. Thus this report will demonstrate four

unique ways to approach a land use zoning study for a sub region. All the outcomes of

the sub region will contribute to the greater zoning of the Coimbatore region, in order to

fulfill the integrated vision of Sustainable Development with focus on Economic growth

engines.

3.1 Coimbatore Sub Region

Coimbatore as a district has high agricultural, industrial as well as economic potential

that will lead to urbanization. But it is imperative to control the direction of growth and

make sure that “mindless urbanization” does not lead to the saturation of the district and

depletion of the environment. Vision for the Coimbatore sub region is to enhance the

capacity of Coimbatore sub-region as a Global Employment generation hub. Coimbatore

Sub- Regional Plan is aspiring for an inclusive and sustainable development of all the

sectors and strata of the society along with focus on employment generation for economy

based development. For the preparation of the sub-regional plan, identification of the

major sectors that constitutes the framework of a region like demography, housing,

transport, economy, infrastructure, environment and governance were done, to found out

the potentials and issues related to each sector after the qualitative and quantitative

analysis of the data collected through primary and secondary survey.

The analysis gave us three thrust areas- Urbanization, Industries and Environment. Final

Proposal based upon Thrust Areas. Western Ghats and Valparai reserved forests as No

Development/ Restricted Zones. Reserved forest areas of Valparai and Western Ghats

being biodiversity hotspots, restrict human interference in these areas. Also, the Noyal

river basins need attention. No new red or orange listed industries are permitted in these

areas. The ones which are present have to be suited to reduce pollution in the river and

river side ecosystems. Protect river basins, surface water resource and improve physical

infrastructure to counter water depletion and degradation.

Settlements Adjacent to restricted zones as Controlled Development Zones being eco-

sensitive to sustain population and revert negative growth: Based upon the analysis of

developable land suitability, eco-sensitive area analysis the need of restriction and control

over the type of development is required in these areas. Also, keeping employment

generation in a view, looking at the population decline or growth rate decline at these

areas sustaining the population in indigenous villages is necessary. The USP of these


97

areas is the context of the reserve forests and biodiversity areas. Although these areas are

marked as no development zones to preserve their character and protect them, they are an

important resource as revenue generation through eco-tourism in a controlled manner.

Not only is it helpful in revenue generation but also important to generate awareness

about these areas. Hence, Promote Eco-tourism to generate employment near eco-

sensitive areas.

Considering the ration of both primary and tertiary work force participation and the

potential of primary sector to feed for secondary and tertiary sectors in the sub-region, the

need for development of primary sector to support for next two in line is eminent. As per

energy generation suitability analysis the wind power generation along with agro-based

industries can generate employment opportunities.

As per developable land analysis and the LULC the emerging conurbation between

Tiruppur and Coimbatore is the new development corridor that will simultaneously

develop the northern and mid-eastern parts of the sub region. The development to its

fullest can be achieved through manufacturing and service sectors development in these

areas. Considering Coimbatore-Salem-Chennai industrial corridor, and defense corridor

going through Sulur, urbanization has better scope in these areas. To add the catalyst to it

the transport corridors are proposed. Proposed RRTS corridor to connect Industrial

corridor Coimbatore- Erode- Salem- Chennai. Also, the moderate land suitability for

residential development alongside industrial parks can be incentivized if the transport

routes are proposed in this part of the region that connect industries to residential areas

without going through the Coimbatore city. In association with this, promotion of wind

and solar power generation alongside service and manufacturing industries.

3.2 Tiruppur Sub Region

Based on the literature study and field visit, major issues has been identified,

environment degradation, water contamination & scarcity, Noyyal river health and

unchecked urban expansion were the highlights. This led us to formulate our vision: to

make Tirippur as a Progressive, Sustainable and Industrial engine. Study is pursued under

the identified 4 heads, namely, Industrial growth, Settlement Growth, Resource Flow:

labour, raw material and market are analysed, Environmentally Sensitive areas. Industrial

growth is analysed by potential assessment on the basis of Tiruppur‟s GDP contribution

to state and spatially by the industry growth density in the region as per data given by

MSME and TEA. Settlement growth is analysed majorly through settlement hierarchy

assessment and by temporal Land use Land cover analysis for years 2005, 2011, 2018.

Under resource flow, skilled labour analysis is pursued through census 2011 B tables,


98

followed by the detailed depiction of the production cycle of the industries: from raw

material procurement to the finished product markets. Environmentally Sensitive areas

are sub divide under Land and Water. Under land sub head, Agriculture and waste

management of the sub region is analysed followed by water analysis, which is done for

ground As well as surface water potential both.

The outcome of the industrial sector analysis is, suitable land for development

(Urbanisable area) map. Projection of industries is done on the basis of the employment

projection for the year 2021, 2031. And the industrial growth potential taluk has been

identified based on the Resource and Environment Carrying Capacity (RECC). Under

settlement hierarchy, based on the scalogram analysis, potential census town for year

2021, growth centre village and node centre villages has been proposed along with the

first second third and fourth order settlement have been projected. A series of

environmental consideration have been taken up under Environmentally sensitive area.

Water sector has been analyzed to identify the vulnerable ground water availability zones

and ground water recharge potential zones in conjunction with the identification of areas

most vulnerable to the surface run-off. Agriculture sector has been focused on obtaining

the vulnerable agriculture land to the industrialization and urbanization process.

Agricultural Land suitability is pursed crop wise as per the identified crops by yield and

return value. Land potential has also been analysed in terms of waste generation and its

suitability for the location of landfill site. Landfill location suitability zone has been

identified by weighted overlay technique.

Output of the all the performed analysis is compiled in the form of a Sustainable Land

Use Zones. All the analysis has been over-layed and weighed proportionately based on

the primary survey experience of students and inhabitants of the district. The proposed

land use zone comprises of Urbanisable zones, Restricted Development Zone, No

Development Zone and Agriculture Zone. Since more than 60% of the land fell under

agriculture zone and analyzing the thrust of industrial expansion in the sub region, the

Agriculture zone is further divide into Agriculture Transition Zone 1 and Agriculture

Transition Zone 2. These transition Zones are identified based on the proximity to the

proposed urban growth centres, agriculture land suitable for more than one crop

production and ground as well as surface water availability potential for future. These

transition zones are also classified as per the order of being urbanized in future, based on

scalogram analysis. Agriculture Transition Zone 1 are classified as land at first priority

for land use conversion followed by transition zone 2. The intent of the study is to

formulize a sub-regional plan with a trust of Economic development and Environmental

Sustainability. It has been our priority to device out an eco-centric methodology with the


99

consideration from Economy growth to Environment Vulnerability and Socio-Physical

Infrastructure capacity of the Tiruppur sub-region

3.3 Erode Sub Region

Based on the study of the sub-region in detail, vision is formulated as, to make erode

globally competitive and environmentally resilient settlement. Four pillars of

development have been identified: Economy, Environment, Resource and Connectivity.

Economy of the district is dependent on agricultural and industrial sectors. Textile,

turmeric and oil industries are the core industries. Bhavani Carpet (Bhavani

Jammakalam) and Turmeric are geographical indicators of the district. Bhavani, Erode

and Gobichettipalayam contribute to occupy important place in the field of oilpressing.

Large number of leather tanneries are also present in this district and the leather products

are exported too. Erode, Bhavani and Perundurai are known for highest number of rice

mills in the district. Global Footprint analysis along with district economic viability and

potential industries has been analysed.

Multi hazard Vulnerability zone analysis has been done for the identification of eco

sensitive areas. Buffer Zone considers the buffer of 5km from the boundary of WLS. It is

important to regulate the changing land use in the environ and thus is the significance of

Transition zone. Agriculture practices in this transition zone can restrict the growth and

thus stops its hampering on forest area. The leftover area called as Non-restricted area

can be taken for further development. Agriculture is one of the most important sources of

income of the district. Paddy, turmeric, coconut and sugarcane are the dominant crops.

Erode accounts to 43% of the turmeric production. Agriculture land suitability is done to

identify most probable land for agriculture practice to sustain. Also Ground water

potential has been analysed as a part of environment pillar. Delineation of potential

ground water recharge zones as High Groundwater Potential Zone, Moderate

Groundwater Potential Zone and Low Groundwater Potential Zone was performed.

16.55% of the area in the district falls under High Groundwater potential and 82.7% of

the area falls under the Moderate Groundwater potential. The result of the groundwater

water potential explains the future prospects of the district in agriculture. For conserving

the Satyamangalam Tiger reserve, level of buffer zone has been identified.

Training Programs for local community can be helpful in both ways for tribes as well as

the Forest Management Authority. Awareness Programs can help to sensitize people

about the do‟s and don‟ts to minimize the conflicts in necessary area, to make aware of

local inhabitants and wildlife. To slow down the traffic movement when vehicles enter

into the forest area, speed breakers can play a vital role. Land bridges reduce the animal


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accidents. Land bridges at most conflicting locations can be constructed. The vegetation

over the bridge can attract the animals without distracting their path, simultaneously

avoiding them to cross the roads and thus accidents can be reduced. A great future

potential can be created through this as this bird sanctuary has ten critical wet land bird

breeding habitats in the state of TN. The Eco-Tourism and conservation plan can promote

the recreational experiences to tourists, ensuring the opportunity to widespread the

message of conserving the forest masses and lives.

Connectivity has been cross-linked with other sectors to integrate the pillars of

development of the district. Erode is also a part of the upcoming Coimbatore-Salem

Industrial Corridor, where Erode plays important part in the Manufacturing and Business

Investment Region II as strategic location for energy industries and logistic services and

in Agri-Business Investment Region. Future census towns followed by order of

settlement has been analysed and proposed for 2021 and 2031. Final zoning map has

been reached on by combining all the analysis mentioned above. Major five zones have

been identified, being, Zone1: No Development Zone, Zone 2: Transition Zone, Zone 3:

Agriculture Dominant Zone, Zone 4: Urbanisable Zone, Zone 5: Unrbanized Zone.

3.4 The Nilgiris Sub Region

The Regional Plan focuses on Environmental conservation and sustainability of the eco-

system within this sub-region and linking the economic and social aspects with the

Coimbatore Region through connectivity. It is expected that some of the villages within

the district, will become Census Towns by 2021 census as their population reached more

than 15,000 (Erumadu) and in some more than 25000 (Nelliyalam and Cherangode)

population way back in 2011. Using the land use/land cover analysis along with flora and

fauna, land suitability was carried out to identify the developable area and conservation

areas within the district. Based on the frequency of occurrence of disaster (landslides

/forest fires) a multi-hazard vulnerability map with zones was arrived at for the district as

a whole.

Using the scalogram, a settlement hierarchy has been proposed for the future, taking in to

account the population size, social, physical and economic infrastructure. For settlement

development, community based eco-tourism is proposed focusing on the identification

and the development of eco-tourism sites through the provision of the eco tourists camps

and service centers in the villages involving tribal communities promoting tribal art and

handicraft. New tourism circuits were identified to divert the concentration of the tourists

from Coonor and Udhagamandalam to other less known tourists spots aiding in the

economic development of the other region as well and promotion of nature based


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tourism. The MSME based on the food products, food services, textiles, motor vehicles,

etc. that are environmental friendly are proposed. Agro-parks are suggested with

infrastructure facility, capacity, types of crops and the organization set up required, so as

to integrate Nilgiris district with that of the larger region of Coimbatore. Land use zoning

is done for the sub region based on the land suitability analysis for developing the sub

region in terms of future urban settlements, industries and agriculture. Thus, the sub

region is classified into four categories wherein the most developable zone considers the

development of the residential, commercial and other related activities in the sub region.

The developbale zone will focuss on the development of service, light and non-hazardous

industries. The least devlopable zone are proposed for the development of the agriculture,

horticulture, poultry and dairy activities. The no development zone is the eco sensitive

zone where no development is possible as it comprises of the forest area and the water

bodies.

Being a home for some of the primitive tribal groups in the country, this district

accommodates has six Primitive Tribal Groups such as Todas, Kotas, Kurumbas, Irular,

Paniyans and Kattunayakans. Some of these tribes are reducing in numbers over the

years (such as Todas and Kotas). Spatially, socially, and in economic terms these tribes

were excluded in the development process. Hence, in the sub-regional plan, the physical,

financial and social capacity of the tribes is analyzed.

In terms of growth centers, apart from Udhagamandalam and Coonoor, which have

emerged strongly as urban centers, by 2038, it is expected that places such as Sholur will

emerge as growth center. In order to maintain the ecosystem and to conserve the flaura

and fauna of the sub-region, the approach of concentrated settlement development has

been taken to develop settlements in the future.


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4. CHAPTER-PROPOSALS

Land Use Zoning

Land use zoning is a planning control tool which is used to classify the type of

development allowed in a parcel of land contributing to the sustainable growth of a

region. The land parcels are segregated into different parcels of land for the development

of agriculture, industries, residences and the conservation of the environmentally fragile

areas. Thus land use zoning provides the opportunity to stimulate or slow down

development in specific areas.

The land use zoning for the Coimbatore region is done focusing on the development of

the region in terms of the economic growth engines of each sub region. As the vision of

the regional plan formulation clearly states the sustainable economic development of the

region, the land use zoning caters the existing as well as the future development of the

region which will be initiated through the establishment of the IT industries, Defence

Corridor, Coimbatore-Salem industrial corridor, Manufacturing and Buisness investment

region in Coimbatore, Salem and Erode,etc. Thus, these huge investments will attract

workers for the upcoming employment opportunities necessitating the need for the

demarcation of the region for the establishment of the industries, existing and future

urbanizable area, development of agricultural land and agro-based industries. As the

region has a major share of the forest and other eco sensitive zones , National parks and

Wildlife Sanctuaries, the zoning considering the conservation of these areas is also

important.

The map below shows the land use zoning of the Coimbatore region based on the

sustainable development concept , classified into five different categories.

Developed Zone- This zone comprises of the main city area of the region which is

already urbanized.

Most Developable Zone- These are the zones where the development of the residential

areas and the activities related to it may it be commercial, PSP, educational centre,

medical and health center, etc are proposed. Also, the existing land use supports the

potential of growth of the future settlements due to existing urban centers.

Developable Zone- These are the zones where the service and the light industries are

proposed. Special non-hazardous industrial zone can also come here.


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Least Developable Zone- These are the zones where the primary activities are proposed

which may include agriculture, horticulture, poultry, dairy, etc.

Eco Sensitive Zone- These are the zones which contains all the reserved forest, water

bodies and the elephant corridors with a buffer of 1km ( Right of Passage, Elephant

Corridors of India ) which are also the No Go Areas.


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Figure 4-1: Land Use Zone Map

The above map is generated in pixels and the zoning done may not depict the actual area

of the different zones classified.

The developed zone in the map shown consists of the existing developed or built up area

where the urbanization has already occurred which includes the existing residential,

commercial, industrial and other uses. The core area of each sub region and the area

under the major urban centers of the sub regions fall under this category. Also, the

developed area concentrates along the national and the state highways due to the

accessibility. The most developable zone will consist of the areas where future

development in terms of large and medium scale industries, residences, commercial

centers can be proposed. The Erode sub region has the major share of the most

developable area followed by Tiruppur and Coimbatore. The Nilgiris sub region has the

least share of the most developable area because the hilly terrain and forest cover of the

sub region. The developable area is concerned with the development of the small and

micro scale and non-hazardous industries with the development of the residential,

commercial and agricultural development associated with the establishment of the

industries in which Tiruppur has the maximum share followed by the Coimbatore , The

Nilgiris and Erode sub region where the textile, coir ,tea, coffee and the other small scale

industries can be established. The major area of the Tiruppur sub region is shared by the

least developable or the agricultural zone followed by the Erode and the Coimbatore sub

region for the cultivation of the crops and development of the dairy industries. The

Nilgiris sub region has the least share of this zone due to the presence of the forest. The

Nilgiris sub region shares more than 50% of its area as eco sensitive zone for the

conservation of the forest falling under Biosphere reserve. The Erode sub region has the

second highest share of the eco sensitive zone because of the presence of the

Sathyamangalam Tiger reserve followed by the Coimbatore sub region consisting of

Valparai forest area. The Tiruppur sub region has the lowest share of the eco sensitive

zone.

Permissible and Non Permissible Activities in the Land Use Zones

PERMISSIBLE

Developed Zone

Residential Development, commercial development, basic public utilities and services,

transport uses, recreational uses and public and semi-public uses, existing scale

industries.


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Most Developable Zone.

•Residential Primary Residential Zone, Unplanned / Informal residential Zone.

•Commercial Retail Shopping Zone, General Business and Commercial District/ Centre,

Wholesale, Go‐downs, Warehousing/ Regulated markets retail shops and retail shopping

centres, Shopping Malls, offices, hotels, banks, function halls on plots of minimum 1000

sq mtrs, stock exchange/financial institution, cinema halls and multiplexes, bakeries and

confectionaries, health facilities with maximum up to 200 beds, guest houses

•Public and semi-public use zone Govt. / Semi Govt. / Public Offices, Govt. land use,

Police Headquarter/ Station. Police line, Educational and Research, Medical and Health,

Socio Cultural and Religious

•Mixed use zone Mixed Industrial use, Mixed Residential use, Mixed Commercial use,

Residential Development, commercial development, basic public utilities and services,

transport uses, recreational uses and public and semi- public uses, small and micro scale

industries, IT and logistic use, Agro based industries.

Developable Zone

•Service and Light Industry.

•Special Industrial Zone – Non-Hazardous

All kinds of non-polluting industries, SEZs notified by government of India, Residential

building for essential staff and for watch and ward personnel all kind of industries, public

utilities, parking, loading, unloading spaces, warehousing, storage and depot of non‐

perishabl and non‐inflammable commodities and incidental use, cold storage and ice

factory, gas go‐ downs, cinema, bus terminal, bus depot and workshop, wholesale

business establishments, petrol filling stations with garage and service stations, parks and

playgrounds, medical centres, restaurants.

•All activities permitted under most developable and developed zone

•Recreational use zone Playgrounds/ Stadium/ Sports Complex, Parks and Gardens –

Public open spaces, Multi‐open space (Maiden) Transport and communication use zone

Roads/ BRTS, Railway/ MRTS, Airport, Seaports/ Dockyard, Bus depots/ truck terminals

and freight complexes, Transmission and Communication.

•Agro-based industries and wind power generation along with promotion of primary

sector

Least Developable Zone

In agriculture use zones, agriculture and horticulture, dairy and poultry farming ,milk

chilling center, storage, processing and sale of farm produce, dwelling for the people

engaged in farms, farm house, afforestation.


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Primary activity use zone Agriculture, Forest, Poultry and dairy farming, Rural

settlements, Brick kiln and extractive areas, Others (fishing, pottery etc.)

Houses incidental to this use, parks and recreational uses, way sides shops and restraunts,

hospitals infectious and contagious diseases, agro serving, agro processing, cottage

industries, burial and cremation grounds, solid-waste management sites, sewage disposal

works, electric sub-stations and eco-tourism.

Activities not permitted in most-developable and developable zones.

No Development Zone

These are the zones which contains all the reserved forest and the elephant corridors with

a buffer of 1km ( Right of Passage, Elephant Corridors of India ) which are also the No

Go Areas

The following facilities managed by the government which involve felling of trees not

exceeding seventy-five trees per hectare, schools, dispensary or hospital, anganwadis, fair

price shops, electric and telecommunication lines, tanks and other minor water bodies,

drinking water supply and water pipelines, water or rain water harvesting structures,

minor irrigation canals, non-conventional source of energy, skill up-gradation or

vocational training centres, roads and community centres.

Traditional practices, non invasive religious and cultural activities.

NON PERMISSIBLE ACTIVITIES

Developed and Most Developable Zone-

Heavy, large and extensive industries, hazardous and obnoxious industries, ware housing,

storage godowns of perishable inflammable goods, whole sale mandis, workshops for

buses, slaughter houses, hospitals treating contagious diseases, sewage treatment plants

and disposal sites, water treatment plants, solid-waste dumping grounds, stadiums

zological and botanical garden, bird santuary, district battalion offices ,etc.

Developable Zone-

General business unless incidental to and on the same site with industries, schools and

colleges, hotels, motels and caravan parks, recreational sports or centers, other non-

industrial related activities, religious buildings, irrigated and sewerage firms, social

buildings.

Least Developable Zone-


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Residential use except those ancillary uses permitted in agriculture use zone, heavy,

extensive obnoxious and hazardous industries. Any activities which is creating nuisance

and is obnoxious in nature.

No Development Zone-

Use/activities not specifically related to environmentally sensitive use zones are not

permitted. No development of any kind is permitted between river canals or streams and

embankment.

The land use zoning mentioned above broadly explains the different zones in the

Coimbatore Region. The zoning as per the individual sub region is detailed out in the sub

regional reports which will be available as:

Coimbatore Regional Plan: Volume 1: Tiruppur Sub Region

Coimbatore Regional Plan: Volume 2: Erode Sub Region

Coimbatore Regional Plan: Volume 3: The Nilgiris Sub Region

Coimbatore Regional Plan: Volume 4: Coimbatore Sub Region


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References

Directorate of Town and Country Planning, Government of Tamil Nadu,(1974), Draft

Regional Plan: Coimbatore-Nilgiris Region

Directorate of Town and Country Planning, Government of Tamil Nadu,(1971), The

Tamil Nadu Town and Country Planning Act

(2011) District Census Handbook, Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Erode and The Nilgiris:

Census of India

(2013-2016) District Statistical Handbook, Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Erode and The

Nilgiris: Department of Economics and Statistics

Department of Economics and Statistics, (2015-16), GDP details: Coimbatore, Tiruppur,

Erode and The Nilgiris

Human Development Report. (2015-16).Retrieved from

http://www.spc.tn.gov.in/DHDR/ Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Erode and The Nilgiris.pdf

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, (2015-16), National Family Health Survey-4,

Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Erode and The Nilgiris

Tamil Nadu Finance Department. (2018) Vision 2023, Phase I and II

Tamil Nadu Finance Department.(2017-22), Report and Recommendations of fifth State

Finance Commission

The Madras Institute of Development Studies (MIDS),2011, Urban Infrastructure

Reforms Facility (UIRF)

The Times of India (2018),Fastest growing cities in the World, 17 of 20 from India

Vivek Menon ,S.K (2017). RIGHT OF PASSAGE ELEPHANT CORRIDORS OF INDIA.

http://www.spc.tn.gov.in/DHDR/The%20Nilgiris.pdf

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