Chennai Project
Sustainable Social
Development of Economically Marginalized Families in Chennai Metropolitan Area
through Effective Planning Research and Development.
In Chennai, the integrated Cooum-river eco-restoration plan evicted many families through the Slum Clearance Board (19,260 families), resettling the families into two areas remote from their original residential location. The displacement led to increased length of travel for education and employment, causing many pupils to drop out of school. A detailed pilot research study was undertaken on the barriers to sustainable development in the context of displacement and resettlement, with specific reference to social infrastructure access through transport planning for these economically marginalised families. This study was supported by Global Challenge Research Funding channelled through Canterbury Christ Church University’s capacity building programme. A collaborative consortium comprising Loyola College, Anna University Transport Department and Stella Maris College conducted the research. The findings of the study indicated considerable gaps in both infrastructure and knowledge thus a need for further studies, publication of the findings and collaborating with NGOs, CBOs (Community Based Organisations) and Government agencies.
