vikramasingapuram

Directorate of Municipal Administration (DMA) Government of Tamil Nadu

DRAFT FINAL REPORT

on

Preparation of City Development Plan for Grade – III Municipal Towns

VIKRAMASINGAPURAM

April 2009

Prepared by:

Head Office: INFRASTRUCTURE PROFESSIONALS ENTERPRISE (P) LTD, C - 2, Green Park Extension, New Delhi - 110016. Phone: +91 (011) 26568607/ 08/ 13, 26962636 Fax: +91 (011) 26969478 Email: [email protected] Website: http://www.ipeglobal.com

Branch Office: INFRASTRUCTURE PROFESSIONALS ENTERPRISE (P) LTD, S-11, II Floor, K.G. Plaza, No 41-44, G.P. Road, Mount Road, Chennai – 600 002

Phone: 04432411001

CITY DEVELOPMENT PLAN

VIKRAMASINGAPURAM

AN EFFECTIVE CDP IS A READER FRIENDLY

DOCUMENT WITH FACTS STYLISED OR

GRAPHICALLY PRESENTED TO ENABLE ALL

STAKEHOLDERS TO UNDERSTAND THE CITY’S

DEVELOPMENT AGENDA.

CDP - VIKRAMASINGAPURAM FINAL REPORT

DMA, GoTN INFRASTRUCTURE PROFESSIONALS ENTERPRISES (P) LTD

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TABLE OF CONTENT

CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION TO THE CITY DEVELOPMENT PLANNING PROCESS.2

1.1 BACK GROUND NOTE .................................................................................................................2 1.2 A RECAP .....................................................................................................................................3 1.3 CDP- THE APPROACH.................................................................................................................4 1.4 DATA SOURCES...........................................................................................................................7

CHAPTER 2 CITY VISION AND THE REGIONAL CONTEXT ...................................... 8

2.1 INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................................8 2.2 THE STATE CONTEXT ..................................................................................................................8 2.3 THE DISTRICT CONTEXT: TIRUNELVELI .......................................................................18

CHAPTER 3 TOWN PROFILE ................................................................................... 35

3.1 TOWN HISTORY AND GROWTH........................................................................................35 3.2 DEMOGRAPHIC PROFIILE ..................................................................................................35 3.3 URBAN ECONOMY.............................................................................................................. .38 3.4 LANDUSE AND SPATIAL GROWTH PATTERN ...............................................................................39 3.5 POPULATION FORECAST.............................................................................................................35

CHAPTER 4 URBAN INFRASTRUCTURE & SERVICE DELIVERY MECHANISM...... 43

4.1 WATER SUPPLY..........................................................................................................................43 4.2 SEWERAGE AND SANITATION SYSTEM .......................................................................................50 4.3 ROADS AND STORM WATER DRAINAGE ...................................................................... .53 4.4 TRAFFICE AND TRANSPORTATION..............................................................................................55 4.5 SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT.....................................................................................................56 4.6 STREET LIGHTING ......................................................................................................................59 4.7 SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE .........................................................................................................60

CHAPTER 5 HOUSING, SLUMS AND THE URBAN POOR.......................................... 64

5.1 INTRODUCTION .........................................................................................................................64 5.2 HOUSING CONDITIONS ...............................................................................................................64 5.3 SLUMS AND BPL POPULATION ................................................................................................. .65 5.4 HOUSE CATEGORIES ..................................................................................................................66 5.5 INFRASTRUCTURE PROVISIONS IN SLUMS ..................................................................................66 5.6 SLUM IMPROVEMENT/ PROGRAMMES AND ISSUES .....................................................................68 5.7 STRATEGIES AND TIME FRAME...................................................................................................69

CHAPTER 6 HERITAGE............................................................................................ 71

6.1 HERITAGE COMPONENTS ...........................................................................................................71 6.2 HERITAGE SITES IN VIKRAMASINGAPURAM AND VICINITY.........................................................72 6.3 HERITAGE CONSERVATION ....................................................................................................... 73 6.4 STATE INTERVENTIONS .............................................................................................................74 6.5 ISSUES AND CONCERN ...............................................................................................................74

CHAPTER 7 URBAN ENVIRONMENT ....................................................................... 76

7.1 BROAD ENVIRONMENT CONCERNS.............................................................................................76 7.2 SITUATIONS IN VIKRAMASINGAPURAM......................................................................................76

CHAPTER 8 URBAN GOVERNANCE AND URABN REFORMS................................... 80

8.1 ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE ..................................................................................................80 8.2 FUNCTIONAL WINGS ..................................................................................................................82 8.3 LINE AGENCIES ..........................................................................................................................83 8.4 REFORMS FOR ULBS UNDER UIDSSMT ........................................................................................84



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8.5 RECOMMENDED ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE ........................................................................83

CHAPTER 9 MUNICIPAL FINANCE .......................................................................... 88

9.1 INTRODUCTION..........................................................................................................................88 9.2 REVENUE ACCOUNT...................................................................................................................88 9.3 DEMAND COLLECTION BALANCE SCENARIO ..............................................................................93

9.4 RATIO ANALYSIS .......................................................................................................................96

CHAPTER 10 DEVELOPMENT OF PERSPECTIVE AND VISION OF THE CITY........... 97

10.1 SPATIAL PERSPECTIVE FOR VIKRAMASINGAPURAM 2041..........................................................97 10.2 SECTOR SPECIFIC OBJECTIVE AND PROJECTS..............................................................................97 10.3 PRIORITISATION OF PROJECTS....................................................................................................98 10.4 INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS......................................................................................................98 10.5 CONCURRENCE ON PRIORITIZED PROJECTS ..............................................................................106

CHAPTER 11 CITY INVESTMENT PLAN ...................................................................107

11.1 BACKDROP STUDY ...................................................................................................................107 11.2 CIP PROCESS FOR VIKRAMSINGAPURAM ..................................................................................108 11.3 WATER SUPPLY........................................................................................................................109 11.4 SEWERAGE AND SANITATION...................................................................................................111 11.5 STORM WATER DRAINAGE .......................................................................................................112 11.6 SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT...................................................................................................113 11.7 TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORTATION..............................................................................................114 11.8 STREET LIGHTING ....................................................................................................................117 11.9 BASIC SERVICES TO URBAN POOR ............................................................................................118 11.10 LIST OF PROJECTS FOR VIKRAMSINGAPURAM UNDER DIFFERENT SECTORS ............................119

11.11 SECTORWISE CITY INVESTMENT PLAN .....................................................................................122

CHAPTER 12 ASSET MANAGEMENT ........................................................................125

12.1 INTRODUCTION........................................................................................................................125 12.2 BENEFITS OF ASSET MANAGEMENT..........................................................................................126 12.3 ASSET MANAGEMENT PLAN METHODOLOGY............................................................................126 12.4 REQUIREMENTS OF ASSET MANAGEMENT ................................................................................128 12.5 INFRASTRUCTURE ASSETS .......................................................................................................139 12.6 LAND BUILDINGS AND VEHICLE...............................................................................................140 12.7 STRATEGIES AND RECOMMENDATIONS....................................................................................141



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Chapter 1 INTRODUCTION TO THE CITY DEVELOPMENT

PLANNING PROCESS

1.1 Back Ground Note

1. City planning has adopted a new format to move into the future. Conventional land use

planning methods had failed to recognize ground level realities and had frozen

development futures into rigid frameworks giving very little leeway for change. This

apparently created minor and major hurdles in recognizing issues which had emerged

from the larger nation, state, city, and even micro level consideration, and which disabled

efficient city planning.

2. The City Development Plans move through a different process. They involve formulating a

Vision which is a collective shared one to instill pride and identity of people in their city.

They involve partnering with civil society, businesses, and citizens to make way for

legitimate economic growth and development, they involve recognizing inner city cores

and the heritage wealth of centuries lying within, and renewing it so as to retain

connections with the past. Other missed issues brought into the ambit of the new planning

ethos is the integration of urban poor through slum renewal and socially as well as

economically integrated neighborhoods so as to enshrine our commitment to equity and

inclusiveness. One of the severest drawbacks of earlier planning were a lack and often

breakdown of essential basic services to most except to the elitist; the new process

emphasizes deeply the fast tracking of infrastructure availability to a set of justified

standards to promote not just economic development but also reduce environment health

risks, especially in dilapidated areas and poverty pockets in the city.

3. To nourish the new Planning process, there was need to have accountable governance in place,

decentralize city planning to local level institutions who have grass root connections,

ensure sustainable funds and responsible accounting procedures, in short, run it like a

socially responsible business house to achieve the desired effects of Reforming,

Enlarging, Sustaining, Profiting from and directing growth: becoming more a

Mission than an agenda under the new ideology, with philanthropy added to activate

integration of the socially disadvantaged groups.

4. Since this is a complex activity, it needed technology-driven systemizing, like Improved

Accounting, GIS based planning and Revenue collection, Budget earmarking for poor,

Basic services to Urban poor through special programmes, E-governance, levying user

charges, assigning responsibilities to partners, enacting public disclosure – information

based laws, and community participation laws / practices, Review and Performance

evaluation etc.

5. Initially special programmes have been introduced to build reform, investment and well

serviced sustainable city building exercises broadly through a routinized process:

• Analysis of current situation.

• Vision for Future development.

• Strategies for development.

• Financing plans.



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The FIRE- D model (Financial Institutions Reform and Expansion project- Debt Infrastructure

component) initiated by World Bank for CDP preparation, followed by the JNNURM

(Jawahar Lal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission) for CDPs for 63 cities has been an

exercise to actualize the above. Precursors to these planning reforms included the

“Millennium Development Goals” program and “Sustainable Cities Program” which

were introduced by international aid agencies.

The Tamil Nadu government has further innovated the same to apply similar conditions for the

CDP for newly transitted urban local bodies in an effort to “Catch them young” as well as

to ‘nip the evil in the bud,’ in short, put new urban centers through a drill of modern city

planning and ensure sustainable long term effects. It has chosen to do this through the

IUDSSMT program (Integrated Urban Development Schemes for Small and Medium

Towns) combining it with another one AUWSP (Accelerated Urban Water Supply

Program), both centre sponsored schemes, assuring 80% finance ( seed money) to put

into motion the new CDP process.

6. Some apprehensions expressed on the JNNURM CDP process figure around the continuation

of consultation with grass root institutions, lack of allocation for social sector, proportion

of total funds allocated to a particular city and the criteria adopted for that allocation

particularly with respect to its fiscal impact on the city. Also being questioned are the

definition of “renewal”, and the tenurial role of Technical Advisory Groups (TAGS) for

CDP under government schemes for their continuation for ensuring transparency as well

as the participatory mechanisms. Other fears which have been expressed are with respect

to cost limit of sub-missions IHSDP and BSUP projects, and the ways of operationalising

manpower efficiency with in the ULB’s.

In larger metropolises the slum free city is being perceived by pro-poor as an exploitive

opportunity for businesses to locate at slum cleared sites.

The issues and concerns of CDP formulation is graphically explained in Annexure – I.

7. A brief on CDP Plan Making Process is recapitulated as under:

1.2 A Recap

CDPs provide an integrated version of an urban community’s diverse perspectives through a

unified vision for a future development. The on ground realities, when compared to the

vision set the agenda for action and onward movement. This entails formulating and

sequencing policy initiatives, investment and development strategies, and, civil society

partnerships.

CDPs for Grade III municipalities in Tamil Nadu are an effort at developing them with city, state

and central government.

The UIDSSMT, a centrally sponsored project has objectives which are congruous with India’s

JNNURM and aim to create economically productive, efficient, equitable and responsive

cities. The project aims to enhance a) water, sanitation and other infrastructure services.

b) expand access to the poor, c) increase municipal finance sustainability, d) initiate

policy reform in the ULBs e) explore the abundant heritage and f) include people’s voice



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in their development. Improved Urban governance with technical assistance in plan

making, policy and financial structuring are an expected outcome of the project.

In brief the CDP is expected to respond to the challenge of urban growth; poverty: under serviced

population with respect to infrastructure and public services, and inefficient city

management struggling with rapidly changing city profiles. The expected deliverables are

a fast tracked city development, efficient infrastructure delivery mechanism, community

participation and the ULBs accountability to the citizens.

The project involves FORMULATING A PLAN which incorporates implementable policies and

actions in line with the aforementioned objectives of the CDP.

(The scope of work is outlined in Annexure-II )

The CDP will suggest reforms aligned to the vision and strategic plan for sustainable planned

interventions by the state and ULB.

Fig 1.1: City Development Plan - Framework

1.3 CDP - The Approach

The plan will set out strategic thrust areas with their policy and investment options as well as base

line for future performance by the ULB. As a tool it comprises of projects and reforms to

ensure planned development and sustainable municipal operations. CDP Fraework is

shown in Fig. 1.1.

Fig. 1.2 & Fig. 1.3 outline the plan making process of the CDP, with inbuilt review facilitated by

performance indicators. The process is dynamic and assures that felt needs and

requirements are duly met.



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Fig 1.2



7



8

The CDP approach, to ensure it is dynamic and satisfies the felt need, must be formulated in a

way, to position the cities in the most favourable way drawing all its inherent and

perceived opportunities. (Many cities facing decline have reinvented themselves to new

economic frontiers different from the past, to excel in, say, Tourism, Finance, Education,

Production, Entertainment, Management …).

There is enough learning from our early cities, which were traditionally productive, inclusive and

sustainable, even when governed by monarchs, who used the political and institutional

stability to produce large volumes of rich treasures of the built environment which forms

our heritage legacy. Good governance which is least intrusive in day to day affairs of

citizens, but enabling an effective in shoring up opportunities and capabilities which are

in the community’s interest, can be a great asset to city building from down up. For

example:

� Introducing Education for vocational training for high end services early in the city’s

development, ensures, that at times of crisis poverty can be kept in control by taking

advantage of deep social capital when the less successful members can be supported

� Permitting local economies, (even if dominated by the informal sectors) and the

institutions to evolve into leading roles if they constitute a large part of the city’s GDP.

� Providing signals to private sector players to share and invest in city’s development

efforts.

� Encouraging outsiders’ perceptions of the city by those who have exposure to larger

challenging environments, so as to guide City Development Strategies rather than

adopting internally driven strategies which often have limited utility.

� Take advantage of the speedy CDP process, (obviating need for policy change) to

undertake programmes and projects on pilot basis to ascertain their impact, OR, adopt

those which are time tested and give assured results. The ULBs drive an initiative will

determine how it deploys its actions to change its performance. There is freedom to do

this under the CDP approach.

1.4 Data Sources

a) Demographic data is made available from the Tamil Nadu Census (2001)

b) A number of Tamil Nadu websites have provided valuable data for the state, district, taluk

and for different aspects of development / other sectors as needed for the project.

c) Various state institutions and organizations, responsible for urban development, transport,

water and sewage disposal, other infrastructure aspects have provided DPRs for current

and proposed projects. Anna University’s library, Connemara library, NGOs private

organizations, the Town and Country Planning Department and other GIS oriented public

and private organizations have pitched in to provide / support data.

d) The ULB itself has provided all data within its jurisdiction.



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Chapter 2 CITY VISION AND THE REGIONAL CONTEXT

2.1 Introduction

Formulating a CDP involves envisioning the city future through a SWOT analysis. At the same

time to provide perspective to this vision, references have to be drawn from the larger

context so as to demarcate aspects that will help in realizing the vision. The State, district

and taluk have accordingly been taken up for the study so as to strengthen the city vision

and are brought out as follows.

2.2 The State Context

2.2.1 Political and Historic

Politically and historically the State has undergone constant change and has used it to its

advantage. It has an ancient history representing Dravidian culture and has been ruled by

4 great kingdoms, Cholas, Cheras, Pandyas and the Pallavas, till the 10th century. There

was an intervening phase of unstable muslim rule with fragmented petty kingdoms all of

which ended with the arrival of East India Company in 1639 and the establishment of the

Madras Presidency under British rule. Soon, after 1947 Andhra Pradesh secured its

independent Statehood followed later (1956) by the formation of Karnataka and Kerala

States. In 1967 the State was renamed Tamil Nadu, is today the 4th largest, with 6 percent

of India’s population spread over 30 districts mostly rural, yet rapidly urbanizing with 44

percent urbanization level. The rapid fragmentation of the State into more districts has

been a continuous process. Fig 2.1 displays this process over time and which

accompanied several changes in the district boundaries.

Due to its historicity the State is rich in heritage resources, having more than 3000 temples and

sites of antiquity. It has two World Heritage Sites identified by UNESCO; the

Mahabalipuram group of Monuments and Brahadeeswar temple at Thanjavur. A

significant move has been made by state archeological department to identify and protect

‘Choultries” or “Chatirams” a tradition of old heritage buildings for pilgrims to stay in

the pilgrimage town. Conservation efforts are on and 38 towns identified for action on

conserving historical, cultural and ‘priceless’ monuments. The study area is a repository

of several heritage buildings and tourism based resources.

2.2.2 Urban Growth and Governance

Chennai is Tamil Nadu’s capital city and India’s fourth largest city with the Municipal

Corporation responsible for the development and governance. The State has added 363

urban units in the last decade. Other large cities having status of Municipal Corporations

are Coimbatore, Madurai, Tiruchirapalli, Salem, Tirunelveli and Tirupur.

The state governance is through 30 districts and 206 taluks and nearly 17,244 villages; 6 cities

have Corporations (mentioned above); there are 152 Municipalities, 385 Panchayats (out

of which 105 are in place in the six districts under study). Besides there are the village

panchayats. District headquarters are named after the district. Town panchayats are for

governance of areas transiting to urban from rural, Municipal Councils for smaller urban

areas and Municipal Corporations for larger urban areas.



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Fig 2.1: Administrative Transformation in Tamil Nadu (1951-2001) Source: Administrative Atlas- Census of India 2001, Tamil Nadu

No. of Districts - 30








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The 10 municipalities under reference, remain democratically elected bodies, requiring self

governance in matters listed on the Twelfth Schedule, (reserve seats for SC/ST/Backward

Classes/ Women in power sharing, levy taxes/ duties, assign proceeds given by the State

Governments and for making grants, review their finances by the State Finance

Commission and as of now, introduce e-governance/ reform/ improve accounting/ budget

and provide basic services for urban poor). The down top governance is defined through

urban wards politically represented, some wards mandated for women/ other

disadvantaged classes.

Source: Administrative Atlas of India, 2001

Note: Figure below districts indicates the number of towns.

Fig. 2.2: Proportion of Rural and Urban Population, Tamil Nadu

Figure 2.2 above shows highly urbanized districts against the highly rural districts in the State,

significantly five of the 6 reference districts have a high percentage of urban population.

Following the Nagar Palika Act of 1994 all the 611 town panchayats were brought under the

category of statutory towns. As evident from the Table 2.1, the inclusion of all the town

panchayats resulted in an increase from 1991-2001 of 57.94 lakh persons in that category

alone.

32 56

67

79

25

28

26

45

60 45

Urban Reference District



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Fig 2.3: Urban Frame, Tamil Nadu

Table 2.1 : Urban Population of Tamil Nadu 1991-2001 (Category wise)

Category Number Population (Lakh) Decadal Growth

Rate (%)

1991 2001 1991 2001

Corporation 3 6 71.35 79.12 10.90

Municipalities /

Cantonme

nts

108 104 72.37 82.46 13.95

Town Panchayats 224 611 37.81 95.75 153.23

Census Towns 134 111 N.A. N.A.

Total 469 832 190.77 272.41 42.79

Source: Census of India, 2001

The population of town panchayat increased by 42.80 per cent in the decade 1991-2001. (Table

2.2) Urbanization levels slowed down between 1971-1991 but again increased in 2001.

Table 2.2: Urban Population of Tamil Nadu, 1961-2001

Year No. of

t

o

w

n

s

Urban

Po

pul

ati

on

Urban

Popula

tion

(%)

Decadal

gro

wth

(%)

Annual Growth

Rate (%)

1961 339 89.90 26.69 22.59 2.04

1971 439 124.64 30.26 38.64 3.27

1981 434 159.5 32.95 27.98 2.47

1991 469 190.77 34.15 19.59 1.79

2001 832 272.42 43.86 42.79 3.56




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For bottoms up governance, the state is ideally organized through well defined urban wards, each

with one elected representatives.

Fig 2.3: Distributions of Towns by Size Class 2001, Tamil Nadu

Figure above shows most towns in the State are small sized but poised for future growth. It is

significant to address the urban issues early before they magnify into irresolvable

dimensions.

According to the 2001 Census, the State’s population is approximately 62 million as opposed to

55.9 million in 1991. The sex ratio works out to 986 in 2001 as compared to 974 in 1991

and 977 in 1981. The decadal (1991–2001) growth rate is 11.19 per cent. The density of

population in Tamil Nadu, a true indicator of population distribution, is 478 persons per

sq. km in 2001, as against 429 in 1991 and 372 in 1981. Tamil Nadu’s slum population

was estimated in 1993–94 to be 3.13 million which is 16.5 per cent of the total urban

population of the State.

The State is unique in some aspects as,

• Its high urbanization level as mentioned earlier

• An increasing sex ratio (974 in 1991 to 986 in 2001)

• A decadal growth rate of 11.19%

• It’s fairly distributed population density of 478 persons/sq.km

Slum population in Tamil Nadu is 16.5% with Chennai Corporation area showing a 30% slum

population, half of which lives in very dense areas. Slums have been recorded for towns

with more than 50,000 populations in Census 2001. Slum dwellers form a high

proportion of many town populations and are of serious concern in the agenda of the

Millennium Development Goals of World Bank, which desire that poverty be reduced to

zero level.

Globalization in early nineties has increased export opportunities, making Tamil Nadu the third

largest economy among the States of India. As regards education institutions, there has



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been a tremendous increase in their numbers in Tamil Nadu, with the State containing the

largest number of vocational training institutions in the country.

Tamil Nadu is one of the leading states in the social, economic and other arenas. The State is

India's second biggest producer of rice, (next to Punjab where there is a perennial source

of irrigation). The town of ‘Namakkal’ in the State is also known as the poultry hub of

India. The state is first amongst all to have a formal bio-diesel policy using Jatropha

plant crops. Under this policy the State has distributed wasteland to the poor farmers for

planting Jatropha.

Tamil Nadu has a well established transportation system and networks connecting all parts of the

State. This has resulted in attracting huge external investments in recent years. There are

24 National Highways having total length of 2,002 km. The State has a total railway track

length of 6,693 km and has about 690 railway stations. There is one international airport

at Chennai. Air links to Chennai are spread across 19 countries having 169 direct flights.

It has three major seaports at Chennai, Ennore and Tuticorin. Other minor ports include

Nagapattinam, Rameswaram, Kanyakumari, Cuddalore, Colachel, Karaikal, Pamban and

Valinokkan.

2.2.3 Location and Geography

• Tamil Nadu, situated at the south eastern end of India has Karnataka to its north,

Andhra Pradesh on the east, Kerala to its west and the Indian Ocean on the south. Its

capital Chennai is the 4th largest Indian city. (see Map 1)

• There are two natural divisions in the State, Coastal plains and the hilly western

region. Plains further sub divide into the Coromandel plains (districts of Kancheepuram,

Thiruvallur, Cuddalore, Vellore); Cauvery delta (districts of Thanjavur and parts of

Tirucharapally); and the dry southern plains (districts of Madurai, Dindigul,

Ramnathapuram, Sivaganga, Virudhnagar, Tirunelveli and Tuticorin), the last group

being areas of this study.

• The state’s coastline is nearly a 1000 km long, There are 33 river basins, chief among

them being Cauvery, Palar, Vaigai and Tambraparni (Last two being relevant to this

study)

• Western ghat hills, nearly 1000 meters long ( and 3000’-8000’ height) consist of

several hill groups (Nilgris, Anaimalai, Palani, Varushannad, Andipatti) The

aforementioned rivers originate from here and are of importance to this study.

2.2.4 Demography & Economy

• The state has 31 districts, a total population of 62,110,839 (6% of India’s population)

high urbanization level (44%) and is densely populated, covering an area of 1,30,058

square kilometers.

• High literacy rates, reduction in poverty levels, improved life expectancy at birth, and

declining fertility rates have contributed to human development achievement. Efforts are

on for gender development. (Table 2.3 and Map 3 give comparison of the 6 study districts

)

• A disquieting factor is the large number of marginal workers in worker participation

rate (WPR); higher WPR in rural than urban; increase in female WPR and decline in

child labour are positive outcomes.



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• Primary sector is the largest contributor to the economy (50% workers) secondary

workers being 23.6%, and tertiary sector 26.1% of the employment. Agriculture incomes

have declined from 25% to 18% (1994-2004) with rise in share of income in the other

two sectors which are located in urban areas. Diversifying agriculture (high value crops/

allied activities) for improving productivity per unit of capital would help avoid income

disparity in the rural and urban sector. The expanding literate work force need to be self

employed entrepreneurs (in food processing/ horticulture/animal husbandry or non farm

small scale industry)

• Poverty in some districts of the study is higher than others (See Table 2.4 and 2.5);

coastal districts appear to be better off. There is a co-relation between poverty and the

marginalized groups, who show higher poverty levels. These need to be addressed.



16



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(v) Infrastructure and Industry

• There is a substantial road network of 2000 Kms of National Highway (NH 7; the

North South Corridor cuts midway through the districts of this study providing equal

access to the eastern and western parts); 6700 Kms of rail track and 690 railway stations;

an international airport at Chennai; two major ports, Chennai & Tuticorin achieve

sufficient export driven cargo handling, besides the nine small and intermediate ones

being considered for up gradation. (Map 2 compares 6 study districts for their road and

rail network)

• Infrastructure with future expansion and a sensible Industrial policy make it the third

largest economy amongst states in India.

• Industrial and Infrastructure development based on identified thrust areas is

underway (Electronics, Software/ Auto components/ Agro-food processing/Petroleum &

Chemicals/ Roads/ Power/ Port development/Mining/ Leather/ Textiles) Each activity has

well defined scenarios, policy initiatives and projects in place for all scales of industry,

proposed/ located in modern parks and complexes, with a host of state sponsored

institutions in place as DIC, TANSI, TANSIDCO, TALCO, SISI, SIDO, SENET, TBSI,

TANSTIAFNF etc.

Table

Key Map



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Table 2.4

Table 2.5



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2.3 The District Context: Tirunelveli

2.3.1 Political and Historic

Ever since Tamil Nadu came into being Tirunelveli district has been a constant. Changes that

took place were in naming it Tinnevelly (1951) which remained so till 1981. In 1991 it

was bifurcated to 2 districts and renamed Tirunelveli – Kattaboman, and

Chindambaranar. Between the decades 1991-2001 these districts have again been

renamed as Tirunelveli and Thoothikudi respectively.

Historically, the district is linked to the dynastic rule of the Pandyas as compiled in Sangam

literature which is a record of medieval times (300 BC to 300 AD), quite like Madurai

and Ramnathapuram. The Nayaks of Vijayanagar ruled in the 18th century, followed by

the Muslims. After Tipu Sultan’s defeat (1799), East India Company (later the British

Empire) took over control till India’s independence.

2.3.2 Urban Growth and Governance

Tirunelveli district is fairly urbanized (Table 2.6) containing 45 urban units within its jurisdiction.

The district headquarter is a Corporation (one amongst the six in the State). Urban areas

are clustered along either or near NH-7 the North-South axis, and SH-40 which is the

route to Kerala via Shencottai pass in the Western Ghats, besides NH-208 which meets

SH-40 at Tenkasi (Map 5). The district has 11 taluks, 481 villages and a total population

of 27,23,988 persons (nearly 4.4% of the State). The district has besides Tirunelveli

Corporation, 9 municipalities and 36 town panchayats. Map in Table 2.6 indicates the

urbanization levels which are of the 11 taluks of which 5 are urban and 6 rural. Urban

taluks are geographically aligned along the border with Kerala. Areawise, it is one of the

largest districts (6,824 sq. miles)

2.3.3 Location and Geography

• The name ‘Tirunelveli’ suggests a sacred place bounded by paddy fields. True to its

name, the district is green with paddy cultivation, irrigated by the waters of river

Tambraparni. Tirunelveli, the penultimate southern district of Tamil Nadu, is one of the

largest in the state (6824 sq.kms) with 11 taluks, a total population of 27,23,988 and

containing within its area all the five geographical divisions referred to in Tamil

literature, the Kurinji (mountains), the Mullai (forests), Marudham (cultivable lands),

Neithal (coastal) and Palai (deserts). (see Map 4)

• Locationally, this hill district forming part of the Western Ghats which separates it

from Kerala state on its western side, lies between 8ο

10’ and 9ο

40’ North latitude, and

77ο

21’ and 77ο

99’ East longitude. On its north is Virudhnagar district, on the east

Tuticorin, on the west the Travancore areas of Kerala and Kanyakumari district, and

towards the south is the Gulf of Mannar. (Map 4 - Tirunelveli district )

• Parts of the district in the western ghat region have vast forest resources, Notable

hills are Kallakadai Mottai (5721’), Kottaimalai (6335’), Kuliratti (5876’) and the

Pothigai hills where, at Agasthyamallai (6132’) is the source of Tambraparni, which

descends at Papanasam in Vikramasingapuram taluk journeying onwards creating

waterfalls at each descent (Kalyanateertham, Vanatheertham, Agasthyar, Panatheertha,

Manirruthur). Most natural places there are marked by ancient Temples. The ghats have

thick forest (often vulnerable trees as Teak, Rosewood and Ebony are found here) which



21

yield produce as honey, wax, cashew, cayenne pepper, tamarind and bamboo etc; nearly

1, 40,000 Ha. of land is under forests, and wild life sanctuaries have been created for

conserving the biological resources in their natural habitats. (Mundanthural Kalakkad

Tiger Reserve; Megamalai; Koonthakulam Bird Sanctuary). Several minerals as

limestone and garnet sand are mined and quarried (by 400 units) to the tune of 27,28,354

tons/ unit per year chiefly for the production of cement. Ghats are watershed for the main

rivers Tambrapani and Chittar. In the district 27 rivers and streams have been identified.



22



23



24

2.3.4 Demography, Economy and Human Resource

• Within the district, Tirunelveli taluk is the most urbanized (80%) whilst also being

the district headquater and, set singularly amidst other rural taluks. The urban taluks,

located in the Western Ghats run 160 Km in lengths in 3 adjoining taluks, Sankarankoil,

Tenkasi and Ambasamudram.

• Comparative assessment of the district growth and other demographic factors (Table

2.3) for six reference district show their relative position with respect to population,

growth rate, densities, sex ratio, literacy and its worker proportion. Tirunelveli has the

largest area, modest growth, high sex ratio and literacy and a fair share of workers (41%)

in the economy. Human resource indicators suggest adequate human development and

gender development (Table 2.4, 2.5, and Map 3)

• In literacy the district ranks third in the state with 79.5 percent literacy rate. With a

large number of educational institutes located here it is also called the ‘Oxford of South

India’. A major state ICT project TAMIL NILAM (Information System on Land

Administration and Management) has been fully implemented in all the 11 taluks making

e governance a reality here. GIS and Land Information System have made possible a data

inventory of 18 lakh land parcels and 16 lakh land owners with more than 1 lakh land

ownership certificates already issued as per their website.

• Regional variation amongst the 6 districts in the Madurai - Tirunelveli region

suggest that disparity and income inequality are on account of low industrialization, low

rice productivity, high population of socially backward classes.

• Low income is also associated with high infant mortality rate and low life

expectancy. In this respect slum population is a vulnerable segment.

• Average literacy rate of Tamilnadu Municipalities is 84.4% with very high

literacy recorded for districts of Kanyakumari (93%), Thoothukudi (89%) and Nilgiris

(89%). Ranked at bottom three are Tirunelveli (77%), Theni (81%) and Salem (75%).

(Table -2.7) gives comparative account of the slum profile in 6 reference districts.

Table 2.7: Comparative Profile of Slums in Reference Districts

S. DISTRICT SLUM

POPULATION

TOTAL, NOS

POPULATION

TOTAL,

NOS

SLUM/TOTAL

POPULATION

(%)

1 Madurai (MC) 175875 922913 19.06

2 Virudhnagar

(Sivakasi)

22841 72170 31.65

3 Thoothukudi

(Thoothukudi)

21370 216058 9.9

4 Tirunelveli

(Tirunelveli M.C)

56958 411298 13.85

5 Theni (Cumbum) 19798 58713 33.72

6 Ramanathapuram

(Ramanathapuram)

6763 61976 10.91




25

2.3.5 Infrastructure and Industry

• Tirunelveli rural taluks grow crops of paddy, pulses, groundnut, cotton, sugarcane,

palm as well as horticulture products like guava, mango, lemon, tomato, onion, banana,

drumstick, semai velerukkai, both offering scope for agro based industries (as palmgur,

tetra packed pathaneer, citrus and coconut based industries) other natural products as

flowers, herbs, aromatic plants (like lemon grass, curry leaves, chillies) offer scope for

perfumery and pharma products. Similarly forest produce as rubber, coir, jute or wood

offer scope for export based growth in self employment ventures.

• Tirunelveli district presents a picture of Infrastructure inadequacy as follows:

a. 56% HHs do not have any type of toilet facility.

b. An average 55 Ipcd potable water supply is availed in the

district, with Tirunelveli Corporation drawing the largest amount

of water (nearly 500 lakh liters) against municipalities which

draw between 25-50 lakh liters each. Smaller municipalities and

town panchayats (Courtallam, Kalakedu, Melagram) are able to

meet 40-70% demand.

c. Sewage is mostly disposed into rivers as there is no

organized UGD system for the more than 700 lakh liters of liquid

waste generation in the districts urban areas.

d. Solid waste generation equivalent to 900 tonnes has a

collection efficiency of 65% only.

e. There are more than 200 Kms of National Highway, 150

Kms of State Highway, 900 Kms of major roads, about 600 Kms

of ghat roads, 88 bridges and 6000 minor bridges/ culverts. The

district is well endowed with roads and both broad gauge and

meter gauge railways.

f. The district’s rural profile overshadows its industrial

profile; Industries produce Cement, Paper, Textile, and Sugar in

the large industry sector. Small, medium and household industry

produces safety matches, Coir mats, beedis, handloom textiles.

Articles from palm fibre, are mostly located in Tenkasi,

Vikramasingapuram and Tirunelveli taluks. Articles from Palm

trees are produced in Nanguneri taluk. There are 2,300 small

scale units in the district, in descending order are the chemical

products, food products.

• It is important to consider all avenues for income equality. It is expected that

secondary and tertiary employment are likely to be the preferred futures for an expanding

qualified work force, and in either sector it is imperative to prepare for non-farm

occupations in a way that self employment ventures are linked to policy, training,



26

financing, institutions and finance. Farm occupation similarly will require diversification

for enhancing productivity per unit of capital.

• The District Urbanization Scenario whilst focusing on Indicators that have a direct

bearing on environmental concerns would also indicate trends in size and spatial

distribution of the population. Urban Population densities provided a record of not just

the concentration of people over urban space but also the towns structural condition, the

expected quality of life in its residential neighborhoods and even the spread and expected

level of infrastructure demand (Table 2.6).

2.3.6 Historic footprint and Heritage

• There are several heritage resources in the district; of the listed 3000 temples in the

state, 50% are located in the three taluks of Tirunelveli, Vikramasingapuram and Tenkasi.

Some are listed here :Vikramasingapuram- Kasinathar Kovil, Thirumalainathur Kovil,

Veeramarthandesar Kovil, Ammaiyappar Kovil, Agasthiyar Kovil; Deivacheyalpuram

(Rajarajes wari temple, Ramar temple); Tenkasi (Varanasi of South); Krishnapuram

(Krishna temple) Manapad (Holy church cross of St.Xavier) Kulasekarpattinam

(Mutharamman temple, Chidarambeswar temple, Katchiappar temple) Sankaram Kovil

(Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva, Gomti Ambal ) Nanguneri (Vishnu temple) Mukkudal

(Muthumalai Amman temple) Tirunelveli (Nellaiappar temple, Pottalpudur Dargah,

Pulithevan palace. The inventory of temples includes village deities, Vinayakars, or the

Muruggan- Siva- Vishnu temples.

• The state is rich in heritage resources with the listing of 3,000 temples, half of which

are reputed to be in the three taluks of Tirunelveli, Ambasamudram and Tenkasi.

• Courtallam has 8 waterfalls and one tourist place of note.

• Tirunelveli town’s historic footprint goes to 3,000 years back, has mythological roots

for its establishment and was known for commerce during the period of Arcot Nawabs

and Nayaks. In 1801 the British acquired the town from the nawabs, and it served as

military headquarter during British period.

• Cultural effects on cuisines include ‘halwa’ (made of wheat & sugar) ‘Sothi’

(coconut milk with vegetables) ‘Kootan charu’ (spicy rice, vegetables and dal), and

‘Ulunthamparu Choru’ with ‘Yellu thovayal’ as well as the filter coffee.

• This quixotic mixture of natural places, temple heritage, forest, wildlife, local

handicrafts, food, cascades-waterfalls-lakes-rivers etc. accessibility make it ideal for

tourism promotion in particular eco tourism.

1. Relevant District Profile

The District being predominantly rural, has assured irrigated land for cultivation, particularly

paddy in Sankaramkoil, Tirunelveli, Tenkari, Senkottah, Vikramasingapuram and

Nanguneri taluk. Dry tracts of the district occur in Sivagiri and part of Sankarankoil,

where camby, cholam and Kudiraivali are cultivated. Forest covers 22% and cropped area

18% of total land; 50% land being fallow is not available for cultivation.



27

The district is also industrially active as mentioned earlier. District level accessibility through all

categories of roads for destined and through traffic is adequately disposed, as also for rail

traffic.

2. The Taluka Context: Ambasamudram

• Vikramsighpuram is within Ambasamudram taluk about 9 km away from the

headquater town forming almost an urban continuum with four other towns,

Ambasamudram, Kallakurichi, Manimatharu, and Sivanthipuram, the last two aligned

linearly along the Western Ghat foothills. There is perceived advantage in providing high

cost infrastructure serving a larger region. These five out of the 12 urban units in the

taluk are crisscrossed by rivers, the railway line and the state highway which are

thresholds in long term planning.

• After Tirunelveli, this is the second largest taluk in the district with an area of 1910

sq, km. and a population of 3,92,226 persons (28% and 14% respectively); a 57% urban

population component, with 12 towns and 65 villages contained within it. A large part of

the taluk (Map) consists of reserved forests along the western ghats region, of the

remaining nearly one third of the land is covered by urban areas of municipalities and

Town Panchayats (12 nos), two of which are Ambasamudram and Vikramsingapuram,

from the Reference Municipalities.

• The Municipalities Ambasamudram (Population 32,739; Area 17.89 sq, km.) and

Vikramsingapura (Population 48,309; Area 38.57 sq. km.) occupy 8.5% and 14% of the

taluk population respectively, as well as 1%and 2% of the land area respectively.

Together the 5 urban units occupy 6% of taluk land.

• Town densities of 18pph and 15pph reflect low town densities since a sizeable

population of urban area land is devoted to wet lands and paddy cultivation. The main

river Tambraparni’s source is located here with reserved forest as its watershed, SH-40,

as a main artery in the taluk, connects from Tenkasi and lead to Tirunelveli with the MG

Rly line running almost parallel to it while cutting across the taluk. The SH-40 cuts

through the Vikramasingapuram ULB creating congestion and laying grounds rerouting

by-passable traffic. There exists a ban on setting up industries within 1km. of the

embankments of the all water sources. Taluks adjoining Ambasamudram to its west are

smaller sized but with larger urban units (Tenkasi and Shenkottai)

• There is select building regulation regarding height restrictions in Heritage towns.

• Town planning regulation specify Agriculture use zone as a distinct land use thereby

its restrictive implication for urban expansion. Software training plus the list of permitted

uses for development can be established without restriction (except within CRZs,

Archeological / heritage sites/ Airports/ Quarry sites/ Railway properties/ Burial

grounds.)

• Multi-storied buildings are permitted on 18m wide roads.

3. Inputs for Promoting Vikramasingapuram Vision.

Vikramasingapuram, as an urban taluk has, other contiguous urban taluks to its East (Tirunelveli)

and (Tenkasi, Shenkottai & Sivagiri) to its North. Future planning would require

strengthing of the road networks so as to serve the objectives of tourism growth which

can logically be used to derive income and employment within an existing resource base

for heritage and natural areas, but which would also promote linear urban settlement and

avail the infrastructure advantage.



28

4. Promoting Vikramasingapuram for Growth

It has been established that Vikramasingapuram is in urgent need for catalyzing its growth.

Whilst providing focused development inputs to it, it will be natural that the effects will

be felt on the nearby (about 7km away) Ambasamudram (and neighboring towns) ULB,

both towns being aligned along or near the SH40, as also forming part of the reference

towns for CDP preparation.

The schematic map (Map 7 & 8) explains that with the introduction of 4 lane / high speed

transport corridor (dual carriageway), would help ease congestion on SH40 passing

through Vikramasingapuram acting as a By-pass. It would double the road capacity for a

faster goods movement to Kerala, hitherto restricted due to hilly region barrier and

intervening forest areas, (it is prudent not to poach on forest land for a quicker access to

Kerala, which was demanded by Vikramasingapuram stakeholders). It would also

synergize economic activity in Vikramsingapuram by twinning the 2 towns and

sandwiching future development zones for their mutual benefits.

Three distinct zones would then serve to kick start development;

(1) Institutional zone,

(2) the Mini – Enterprise zones explained earlier and

(3) the Tourism Nodes.

The Institutional zone shall be located near a proposed Ecological Park (a Regional level

Recreational green) as a perfect setting for education to serve service sector growth; the

enterprise zones for agro processing, food processing, wholesale / retail commercial

would be self sufficient with integrated fully serviced residential areas; the Tourism

Nodes would contain integrated Tourism infrastructure in modern well designed IT

managed environments containing Transport, Boarding , Hotels and Lodges, Restaurants,

and would be in adjacent locations to both Vikramasingapuram and Ambasamudram.

(See Map 9)



29

Map 7

Map 8



30

5. Inception Stage and the SWOT Analysis

The consultants visited Vikramasingapuram on September 21, 2007 for a reconnaissance of the

Municipality area and for a consultative meeting cum workshop with the Chairman,

Councilors and other major stakeholders. Another meeting cum workshop was held in

Madurai on October 16, 2007 for presenting the inception report, under the Chairmanship

of JCMA where ULB Chairman and state level concerned functionaries were apprised,

and views consolidated for the onward exercise of preparing the Draft CDP. A record of

these meetings is provided in Annex - 3.

The SWOT analysis and draft emerging vision for Vikramasingapuram ULB is derived from this

meeting and as incorporated in the inception report. The ULB’s regional perspective and

interconnections with the district helped sharpen the Vikramasingapuram Vision.

6. City Assessment, SWOT Analysis for Vikramasingapuram



31

STRENGTH • Is situated close to taluka headquater, aligned off but connected to SH–40 with a

metalled road going to Kerala (Kollam) passing through 2 urban taluk headquarters Tenkasi and Shenkottai.

• Forms a sizeable urban continuum with four other urban units (as mentioned earlier).

• Within reach of district headquarters Tirunelveli 42 km on SH-40.

• Located within western ghats forest, 600-900m above MSL., extremely pleasant scenic environment, with hill road passing through two large dam sites and a series of water falls (Agasthyar, Karaiyar, Panartheertham) in the Pothigai hills, also the site of a hydro power station.

• River Tambraparni flows through the town on SW side.

• Important tourist places, as Mundanthuri tiger reserve sanctuary located nearby.

• Several heritage temples (Papanasam, Sivanthiappan…) located nearby. The reservoir of tourist places in the district is listed in the tourism department circuits.

• Is larger both in population and area then the taluk headquarter.

• Have effective road linkages to other taluka and distrct town.

• Accessible to many educational institutions.

• Shares labour force with Ambasamudram for Madura Coats factory together contributing 12,000 labour (now fairly downsized). Indicates acculturation to industrial environment.

• High literacy effective for translating to skilled human resource.

• Harmonious co- sharing amongst caste / religious groups and a low slum population.

• Women SHG are engaged in micro enterprises in forest based activities.

Summarised, VICKRAMSINGAPURAM, WITH ITS LITERATE POPULATION, SCENIC AND

HERITAGE RICH ENVIRONMENT, SUFFICIENT TOURISM RESOURCES AS WELL AS

AGRO AND FOREST BASED RESOURCES NEED TO BE EFFECTIVELY USED THROUGH

AN ECOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT MODE FOR DEVELOPING ITS ECONOMY. (THE REGION COULD BE GAZETTED AS A HERITAGE AND ENVIRONMENTALY SENSITIVE)

WEAKNESS

• Very weak town growth, negative population growth rate.

• Weak employment base in spite of resources.

• Proximity to Tirunelveli not fully exploited.

• Constraint of forward movement of goods/services due to geographical barrier of western ghat mountains, as well as the reserved forests.

• Support for mini enterprises for resource based/cottage/handloom/handicraft sector missing.

• Mining/ quarrying limited to labour intensive low return activity. Also degrade the environment.

• Weak Tourism infrastructure.

• Deficient economic base corroborated by the state conducted Industrial Potential Survey Report (2001-2002) which puts several blocks in Tirunelveli district on the Backward, and Most Backward blocks in Tamil Nadu.

• E-governance requires strengthening.

• City drainage poor

• ULB assets not inventoried.

• Community facilities insufficient.

Summarized, VICKRAMSINGAPURAM’S LACKS RAILWAY LINK, FORMAL INDUSTRY,

INFORMAL MARKETS-WAREHOUSING AND PROCESSING OF AGRO PRODUCTS OTHER

THAN PADDY. LOCAL ECONOMY NEEDS RESTRUCTURING TO CONTRIBUTE TO GDP.



32

THREAT

• New Forest Act 2007 and its implications to tribal welfare within the ULB/Taluka.

• Current out migration and lack of jobs

• Environmental deterioration due to ineffective SWM.

• Pollution of water bodies (rivers, lakes, reservoirs) by human activities, effluent discharge, other noxious discharge.

• Obstruction to surface drainage by urbanization

• Damage to ancient heritage buildings for lack of funds for restoration, preservation, and conservation and natural areas in the absence of monitoring.

• Heritage Management Measures, not in place at Tourism sites.

• Paddy cultivation and its export may mean giving up more carrying capacity embodied in its production (water) exceeding the regions natural surplus. In the long run this may be economically unsustainable; may require Ecological Footprint Analysis to determine sustainability.

Summarized, CONSCIOUSLY DESIGNED STRATEGIES FOR TOURISM, HERITAGE, MICRO INDUSTRY, RESOURCE BASED ACTIVITY IN COLLABORATIVE MODE SO AS NOT TO

ENVIRONMENTALLY DAMAGE AND PROMOTE POSITIVE EXPLORATION OF GROWTH.

OPPORTUNITY

• Tourism development as in riverfront development, road improvement and facilities upto perennial water-falls, temple improvement schemes, resorts - budget hotels - recreation and entertainment - picnic spots – zoo and safari rides – eco tourism within a large Bio-reserve within western ghats region – boating facilities in water bodies.

• Twinning urban units for developing synergies and collaborative programs for SWM, employment growth, tourism development, road development, ecologically based settlement planning.

• Granting special status of GREEN TOWNS and prescribing Green and Clean practices.

• Establishing Center for Environment and Ecology, promoting sustainability in development practice.

• High literacy including female literacy; need for strengthening state sponsored Self Help Groups (SHGs).

• Need for promoting service sector linked to available natural resources (Forest/mines/agriculture/horticulture) in specially tailored development hubs.

• Need for establishing educational institutions for Hospitality, Fashion & Design, Fine art and commercial art, IT, basic accounting, vocational training and enterprise development etc. for service sector growth in peri-urban areas of 2-3 adjoining towns.

• Need for Temple improvement measures and attaching a Heritage Information Kiosk to each temple; training centre for vernacular Architecture and building construction methods (skills for building, painting, carpentry, stone carving, drawing and draughtsman ship etc.) jointly with 2-3 ULB’s on their peri-urban areas by conjoining the two urban units.

• Need for establishing regional markets for Fruits, Vegetables, Flowers, Horticulture products, Pulses, Cereals & Food grains, Forest produce, Minerals etc. with permanent exhibition- display facility, Business Finance-Marketing Centre; Mini Agro processing zones

Summarised, DRIVING DEVELOPMENT THROUGH TOURISM., AGRO PRODUCTION,

GREEN PRACTICES AND SUSTAINED HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT,

EMPHASIZING ON WOMEN SHGs.



33

7. Emerging Draft Vision for Vikramsingapuram

Vikramasingapuram and its adjoining urban units located within areas of unique environmental

quality, need to develop in collaborative mode helping to sustain the region’s ecology

through Green Practices; they need to develop centres for tourism/recreation, quality

education backed by knowledge goals as well as practical applications; Micro enterprise

development and services of non polluting nature using natural resources and viable

enough with value added through design/ marketing/ promotional work.

Innovative Strategies for Tourism and traditional skill enhancement showcased in ‘Haat’

environments…. all lead to more visibility and repeat visits endowing the town with

economic growth and helping the ULB to establish a productive base for governance.

8. Critical Inputs

Strengthening road networks is critical to urban, economic and tourism growth and is usefully

productive at a regional scale.

9. Emerging Vikramasingapuram Vision

Focused development inputs are required for delivering economic growth; Expressways can lead

to faster movement of goods and services trans state to Kerala so far hindered by forests

acting as dead ends. Similarly SWM operations require scale to become viable which is

achievable with a cluster of towns; peri urban areas are perceived as good options for

locating them for a mutual benefit.

Spatial perspective for Vikramasingapuram is provided with considerations as below:

Eco-Centric Activities

Eco- park; Eco- centre;Eco- resorts/ lodges; Eco- product Development centre; Organic foods and

processing centres; Eco- Education centres

Infrastructure- Centric Roads and expressways,Bridges and culverts;Halting and Maintenance Stations

Heritage Tourism and Growth Centric

Temple Improvement; Heritage trails; Parks, picnic areas; Rural Conservation Zones

Enterprise Zones; Micro to medium size units

Institutional Zones; Vocational centres; Knowledge centres

10. Emerging Spatial Perspective for Vikramasingapuram

The organization of Expressways and Development Nodes, Hubs or Zones are schematically

given at the taluk level but emphasized for Vikramasingapuram and its adjoining

settlements. The Development Hubs are:

� Regional tourism and ecological parks

� Tourism nodes



34

� Composite micro enterprise zones

� Bus stands

The proposals are diagrammatically explained in Map – 9.

11. The ULB Jurisdiction:

The present area of 3857 hectares in the ULB with its nearly 565 hectares as undeveloped is

sufficient for its future land needs.

PLATE – 1: Waterfalls and Hills in the Region



35

Chapter 3 TOWN PROFILE

PLATE – 2: Town Glimpses



36

3.1 Town History and Growth

Vikramasingapuram ULB is situated west of Ambasamudram ULB, within

Ambasamudram Taluk of Tirunelveli district, at a distance of 10 kms. and 45 kms away

from them respectively. Located at the foot of the western ghats (Pothigai hills) and on

the northern banks of River Tambrapani it is 8ο

67’ North latitude and 77ο

33’ East

longitude, about 300 m above MSL. The ULB is connected to Ambasamudram through

the Ambai-Papanasam main road connecting to the ancient temple at Papansam (the

name implying papam – sin and nasam – destroy). Another temple 4 km away is the

Agasthyar Koil whose waterfalls are a tourist draw. Several scenic places around

associated with mythological events related to Lord Shiva and Parvati, and the sage

Agasthya, are, the Kalyana theertham, the Agasthyar falls, the Panatheertham falls, the

Papanasam falls, the Karyar falls and the Tambraparni river. All these suggest the

ancient history of the town. The Courtalam falls are further down about 25 kms away and

are an amazing sight. On the way to Agasthayar falls, temple and Kalyanamtheertham is

located the Hydro electric power station. There are two large dams, the upper dam

(Servalar) built in the Pothgai hills, and the Karyar dam whose water is provided by

Panatheertham water falls; on the way to Karyar dam is another ancient temple known as

Sorimuthu Ayannar Kovil. All the above places fall within the Municipality’s jurisdiction

in 13 hamlets.

The Mundanthurai Tiger Sanctuary is situated on way to upper dam from Papanasam. The ULB

has 21 municipal wards covering an area of 38.57 sq km and a population of 48,309

(2001).

3.2 Demographic Profile 3.2.1 Population growth trends

Table 3.1: Population Growth Trends

YEAR POPULATION DECADAL GROWTH RATE

1961 32,978 -

1971 40,274 22.12

1981 49,319 22.46

1991 49,834 1.04

2001 48,309 (3.06)


Source: IPE Analysis

Fig 3.1: Population Growth Trends Fig 3.2: Population Growth Rate 3.2.2 Density

Population Growth

0

10000

20000

30000

40000

50000

60000

1961 1971 1981 1991 2001

Years

Popula

tion

Population Growth Rate

-5

0

5

10

15

20

25

1971 1981 1991 2001

Years

Perc

enta

ge



37

Table 3.2: Wardwise Population Distribution, Area and Density

POPULATION AREA WARD

NO. Persons % Sq.km % Total Area

DENSITY

PERSONS

PER HA

1 2860 5.92 2.80 7.2 10

2 1750 3.62 1.10 2.85 16

3 2412 4.99 0.85 2.20 28

4 1981 4.10 0.90 2.33 22

5 1817 3.76 0.75 1.94 24

6 1472 3.05 0.80 2.07 18

7 2579 5.34 0.89 2.30 29

8 2236 4.63 0.80 2.07 28

9 2071 4.29 12.65 32.80 2

10 3031 6.27 1.40 3.62 22

11 2794 5.78 2.10 5.44 13

12 2598 5.38 2.76 7.15 9

13 2708 5.61 2.20 5.70 12

14 2346 4.86 1.10 2.85 21

15 2480 5.13 1.65 4.27 15

16 2351 4.87 0.60 1.55 39

17 2149 4.45 0.70 1.81 31

18 2167 4.49 0.85 2.20 25

19 2285 4.73 1.10 2.85 21

20 2103 4.35 1.17 3.03 18

21 2119 4.39 1.40 1.40 15

Total 48309 100.00 38.57 100.00 Avg. 12

Source: Census of India, 2001 & IPE Analysis

The ULB comprises 21municipal wards within its jurisdiction. Overall town density is 12 pph

(Table 3.2) which is low. The developed area density is also very low 14pph indicating

spread development which is unfavorable for both infrastructure development and energy

use. A wardwise assessment of density shows there is moderate density in most wards

permitting room for future infill development.

3.2.3 Birth Rate and Death Rate

The data indicates a decline in the birth rate from 5 to 2/1000 population and a consistent death

rate

Table 3.3: Birth and Death Rate



38

YEAR LIVEBIRTHS DEATHS BIRTHRATE (PER 1000

POPULATION)

DEATH RATE ( PER

1000

POPULATION)

2004 220 345 5 7

2005 79 335 2 7

2006 91 401 2 8

Source: Vikramasingapuram Muncipality


Fig. 3.3 Birth and Death Rate

3.2.4 Literacy and Sex Ratio

Table 3.4: Literacy Rate

YEAR LITERATES LITERACY RATE

1961 15,892 48

1971 22,720 56

1981 31,384 64

1991 35,183 71

2001 37,680 78


Fig 3.4: Literacy Rate

Table 3.5: Sex Ratio

Birth and Death Rate (%)

0

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

2004 2005 2006

Years

Perc

enta

ge

Birth Rate (per 1000 population) Death Rate ( per 1000 population)

Literacy Rate (%)

-

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

1961 1971 1981 1991 2001

Years

Perc

enta

ge

Literacy rate



39

YEAR MALES FEMALES SEX RATIO

1961 16,316 16,662 1,021

1971 20,378 19,896 976

1981 25,225 24,094 955

1991 24,661 25,173 1,021

2001 24,019 24,290 1,011


Literacy rate over the years has significantly increased to 78% (higher than the state average) Sex

ratio has been constantly good, and this appears to have a co-relation to general literacy

levels and specifically, to female literacy levels.

3.3 Urban Economy

Vikramasingapuram’s economy depended on Madura Coats textile Industry where raw cotton

was processed to make cloth, and whose labour was drawn from this town as well as

Ambasamudram. This now stands declined due to plant modernization and labour force

reduction from 12000 to 1000 workers. The Papanasam paper mill too has done similarly.

There are nearly 61 mining and quarrying units in some of the taluk’s Municiplaities /

development blocks, of which some -are located in this ULB. The town has about 12

Rice mills 20 Flour mills and other small scale beedi units as well as 5 mineral water

units within its jurisdiction, but none are large scale.

The town has around 472 shops and 75 retailing and workshop units, one vegetable market,

around 120 restaurants, besides the usual social infrastructure distributed over different

wards.

3.3.1 Occupational Structure

Table 3.6: Occupational Structure Sector Total

No

Persons

%

totto

No. of

Persons

%

to to

No.of

Persons

%

to to

No.of

Persons

%

to to

No.of

Persons

%

to to

Cultivators

Agriculture

Labourers

2,801 24 1,543 13 1,453 10 3,158 18 1,729 9.23

Household

Industry

7,009 61 6,412 56 1,754 12 8,449 49 4,887 26.09

Others 1,634 14 3,526 31 10,719 71 3,720 22 12,114 64.68

Maginal

Workers

- - - 1,267 8 1,962 11 - -

Total

Workers

11,444 100 11,481 100 15,193 100 17,289 100 18,730 100.00

Non workers 21,534 28,793 34,126 32,545 29,579

Total 32,978 40,274 49,319 49,834 48,309



40

Population

WPR 35 29 31 35 39

Source: Census of India, 2001 & IPE Analysis

The occupational structure has undergone change in the last decade, with Primary workers

decreasing to half (18% to 9% of total workers); similarly workers engaged in household

industry are also declining from 48% to 26% bringing about growth in the services

sector which has enlarged from 22% to 65%. It appears that the economic base both

from agriculture and micro industry is eroding and is being substituted by low paid jobs

in the service sector, probably one of the reasons for a negative growth rate of the town.

3.4 Land use and Spatial Growth Pattern

Land use surveys by the Town and Country Planning department, were conducted (2000) for

preparing the revised Master Plan for the 3857 hectares of land within the town’s

boundary.

Table 3.7: Land Use Distribution

LAND USE AREA (HEC) % OF DEVELOPED

AREA

% OF TOTAL

AREA

Residential 2551 77.50 66.15

Commercial 712 21.62 18.45

Industrial 29 0.98 0.75

Public/Semi

public/Institutional

Developed Area 3292 100.00 85.35

Agriculture/

Wet Lands

407 10.56

Circulation 59 1.52

Graveyards 99 2.57

Total 3857 100.00

Source: Vikramasingapuram Municipality

Land use distribution indicates that the developed area constitutes 85% of the ULB area with 15%

under Agriculture and other uses. The use distribution for developed area is as : 77%

under Residential use, 21% under commercial, less that half per cent under Industrial Use

and similar for public amenities. The distribution of uses is highly skewed towards

residential uses and is un usually a high proportion.

(a) Water Bodies

There are a large number of water bodies / ponds (16 nos) within the town besides the river

Tambraparni and the north Kodalmallagian channel; together they cover nearly 109 acres

(44 hectares) of land which is municipal owned. The Servalar dam and the upper / lower

dam too are within municipal limits.



41

The water bodies need safeguarding against effluents discharging, and, require networking

with green corridors to develop as recreational sites for the city- the number of

temples within the town and along water bodies need to be brought under walkable

and improved temple environment as part of the towns cultural plan. This needs

serious work to maintain cultural zones, in the town. The town needs libraries,

community halls, gardens, open and enclosed forums for performing arts.

(b) Transportation

The Ambasamudram Papanasam road, an off shot of SH-40, cuts through the town leading to

areas north and south of it. Another major city road in N.S. alignments intersects the

above road with most residential areas contained within grid iron streets.

3.4.1 Spatial Growth Pattern

The future growth in the town shall centre on Residential enclaves, medium density with proper

infrastructure and decentralized STPs for safe sanitation accessible to all, exploring new

technologies and recycling water for agriculture/ horticulture to retain the green

environment. New development hubs as in Map-9 would contain the new employment

centres for the city and its region.

3.4.2 Emerging Issues

• The town is close to taluk headquarters, linked by metalled roads and further linked

to Tirunelveli and Tuticorin through the Rail link at Ambasamudram. Another train

station between Vikramasingapuram and Alwarkuridchchi on the existing rail line would

held improve connectivity. Growth constraints include existing infrastructure inadequacy

and needs enhancement of both social and physical infrastructure both qualitatively and

quantitatively for the present and future population.

• Water bodies improvement, development of master plan for tourist places around

heritage areas, development of a Zoo as tourist attraction and taking advantage of forest

areas inclusion in town, lining of the canal, improving access to introduce pucca roads to

eliminate cases of snake bites prevalent here; introduction of tribal welfare schemes

(Papansam) ; improving drainage to avoid water logging/ flooding/ constructing culverts /

sufficient high mast lighting for improving illumination were some of the issues seen

with respect to the towns location amidst sylvan surroundings.

• For physical infrastructure, issues emerging out of the consultation process were the

need for more OHTs suitably located at elevated positions to facilitate gravity flow and

decrease energy cost; preventing discharge from septic tanks into water bodies;

rehabilitating old water supply scheme; improving community toilets through aided funds

for individual toilet improvement and constructing public conveniences at congested

sites; introducing sewerage; improving solid waste management.

• Other issues stated dwelt on jobs and their necessity in the town for introducing food

and agro based (especially sugarcane) industry, as well as creating jobs for women

through SHGs as per policy in Tamil Nadu.

3.4.3 Development Objectives

Promoting a spatial structure for Vikramasingapuram that preserves and enhances is natural and

heritage assets, explores forest and agro resources for creating employment and



42

improving the economic base, collaborates with other ULBs for effective regional

infrastructure of roads, SWM, water supply, sewerage and drainage, introduces

collaborative institutions for generating non polluting jobs within ‘Green Town’ formats,

and provides for an integrated land use - transport development by restructuring its

regional linkage.

Constraints

• Decreasing growth rate of the town

• Insanitation and environmental degradation

• Low grade basic infrastructure

• Non – adherence to development controls.

• Weak economy and limited employment.

• Urban poor and slum formation.

• Inadequate municipal resources.

• Leadership, guidance and management institutions.

3.5 Population Forecasts

Population Forecasts are important to any planning exercise, and accurate forecasting is an

important criteria. It is also a very difficult exercise. Literature on forecasting concludes

that though many methods are available, no single method is consistently more accurate

than the other methods. Research into forecast accuracy also concludes that forecast

accuracy generally increases with population size, or with areas with slow but steady

positive growth rate. The reverse being true for areas experiencing rapid population

increases or losses – A rule of thumb on base period is generally found to be true , ie.

Length of the base period should generally correspond to the length of the projection

horizon. (short horizon period, 1-5 yrs, short base period, long projection horizon,

20+years, longer base period) Projections can be improved by combining different

projection results, weighing and averaging them, and using a composite method. The

same is being done for Vikramasingapuram here.

As mentioned, the city has seen a decline of – 3.5 % in the last decade. This is common in cities

where the economy has not renewed, and could lead to a downward growth spiral.

However, development opportunities are required to reverse this trend. For assessing the

future growth of population, the following methods have been considered.

Table 3.8: Population Forecasting Methods

YEAR POPULATION SIZE INCREASE VARIATION

(%)

AVG.

INCREME

NT

1961 32978 - - -

1971 40274 7296 22.12 -

1981 49319 9045 22.40 1749

1991 49834 515 1.04 (8530)

2001 48309 (1525) (3.06) (1010)

Average 4595 12.15 2822

Table 3.8 A Table 3.8 B Table 3.8 C



43

Assuming est. population (2006) – 50800; Average Variation per annum – 1.215 % as per State

govt. estimates

Table 3.8 D Table 3.8 E

Table 3.9 Population Forecast by Methods

METHOD 2011 2021 2031 2041

A 52904 57499 62094 66689

B 54178 60761 68143 76423

C 5726 63143 70560 77977

D 53285 58773 64826 71503

E 66859 89854 120772 139999

Table 3.10 Population Forecast by Range

METHOD 2011 2021 2031 2041

A 66059 89854 120772 139999

B 54178 60761 68143 76423

C 52904 57499 62094 66689

Source: All tables source is Census of India, 2001 and IPE Analysis

It is suggested that the medium Forecast be accepted

Formula Used

Arithmetic Method r = average of decadal increment (1961-2001)

n = no. of decades

Population Projected = Population of base year + n * r

Population n = Population (2001) + n*r

Arithmetic Increase

Average Increase 4595

2011 52904

2021 57499

2031 62094

Forecast

2041 66689

Geometric Increase

Average Variation 12.15

2011 54178

2021 60761

2031 68143

Forecast

2041 76423

Incremental Increase


Average Arithmetic Increase 4595

2011 55726

2021 63143

2031 70560

Forecast

2041 77977

Arithmetic Increase


2011 53285

2021 58773

2031 64826

Forecast

2041 71503

Geometric Increase

Average Variation 12.15

2011 66859

2021 89854

2031 1,20,772

Forecast

2041 1,39,999



44

Incremental Increase

r = average of increment on decadal increment (1961-2001)

n = no. of decades

Population n = P (2001) + nr + n (n+1) r / 2

Geometric Increase X= decadal increment / previous decade population

Or

X = Rate of growth

n = no. of decades

r = (product of rate of growth)^1/no. of rate of growth

r = (product of rate of growth 1961-71, 1971-81, 1981-91, 1991-2001)^1/4

Population n = P (2001) * (1+ r)^n



45

Chapter 4 URBAN INFRASTRUCTURE & SERVICE DELIVERY

MECHANISM

The Infrastructure profile of a town makes a direct reference on the quality of life within it. It is

an important consideration for the town’s economic development and its investment

climate. Infrastructure services and its adequacy require an assessment be made of its

coverage, quantity and quality, as also the demand supply gap. The cost of delivering

services and recovering that cost is another matter for review.

The following sections relate to an analysis of the above mentioned factors for the various

services within the town. (See Annexure: 4 Maps 10 to 14 giving location of facilities)

4.1 Water Supply

4.1.1 Source and availability of water

Vikramasingapuram Municipality is required to provide water supply to its 21 wards and 13

hamlets, the latter being outgrowths to the core urban area; four of these hamlets (Lower

Camp, Upper Dam, Servalar and Kanikudiyiruppu] lie on the slopes of Western Ghats. In

general the town’s topography is rocky with several hillocks sloping towards

Tambraparani river; ground level variation (range 76m to 106m) in 30m. An abundance

of water is available for irrigation from the North Kodaimelalagian canal running south

of the town.

(i) The scheme in place was sanctioned 40 years back (1967) commissioned 6 years later

for an intervening population (1981 - 48,000) and ultimate population (1996-60,000) at a

standard of 90 lpcd through which, of the total 18,300 properties present, 42.7 percent

had availed HSCs. The water supply system entailed sourcing it from 80m upstream of

Kodamelalagian anicut in river Tambraparni (which is the first anicut after Agasthyar

falls) and had sufficient supply of surface water for subsequent improvement schemes.

The initial scheme, post treatment and transportation to clear water storage at Ground Level

Service Reservior (GLSR) Vambahnthanparai (15 LL) and SR at Tanna (3.15 LL)

provided water supply to Vikramasingapuram. Hamlets located on the slopes near the

Dams were provided water by the Electricity board, and one tribal hamlet

(Kanikudiyiuppu – ward 9) was provided water from upstream River Tambraparni stored

at GLSR (built by ULB) and distributed through 3 public stand points. This w. s. scheme

had a distribution network of 24.5 km with 24.1km for extension areas, totaling 49 kms in

its entirety.

(ii) The second extension to W.S.Scheme (1991) by TWAD was designed for interim

population of 85000- 2019 and for an ultimate requirement of 59.50 LL considering 22

hours of supply. This entailed boosting from Taana SR and storing 2 LL water at the SR

Agasthiapuram, and another boosting fromVambalanathan to store 2 LL at SR

Mettulhangammankoil. Yet another SR Pothigaryadi stored 30,000 litres pumped direct

from the treatment plant.

(iii) The third extension, again designed by TWAD, entails constructing additional SRs

North of river Tambraparni where bulk of the population resides and where ground level

variations aggravate water shortage problems. These are variously located as,

Meenakshipuram, Pasukidavilai, Mudaliarpatti, Ayyanarkulam, Ambalavanapuram/

Irudayakulam and Sankaranpandinpuram/ Kottavilaipatti (See Map 10, 11 and Annex - 4



46

for the entire existing and proposed w.s. scheme). The Vikramasingapuram ULB has on

its own been managing water supply distribution to stall problems, by boosting

arrangements at the mains and avoiding management delays. The present proposal

intends to systematically streamline and plan for long term supply, using population at

2001, 06 (Est. 50,800) and projections for (2021) 59200 and (2036) 69000. The design

population (after deducting for population in hamlet on slopes- dams etc) is 48885

(2006); 58969 (2021); 66396 (2036). The norm adopted is 90 lpcd, (10% additional for

commercial requirement and 10% for transmission losses.) A 16 hours supply

propositioned by TWAD implies 6463 lpm (2021), and 7531 lpm (2036). A 5 percent

loss for backwash, and 3 fillings per day for service reservoirs has been assumed. The

scheme continues to use surface water from the existing location upstream at

Kodalmelalagian anicut. Raw water @ 6.5 MLD – 2021 and 7.6 MLD- 2036 will off take

from same source. (The scheme is in operation and foresees a per capita cost of Rs.503

and the water cost @ Rs.2.53 per 1000 litres)

The projected demand for water by this perspective year 2038 @ 90 lpcd matches the demand of

this study and is acceptable.

Table 4.1: Existing Storage Capacity

S. NO. LOCATION STORAGE

CAPACITY

(IN LAKH

LITRES)

1 GLSR at Vambalanthanparai 14.62

2 SR at Pothigaiyadi 0.30

3 SR at Mettu Thangamman koil St. 2.00

4 SR at Taana 3.15

5 SR at Agasthiyarpuram 2.00

Total 22.15


4.1.2 Storage Capacity and System Adequacy

(i) Gross supply to the town at present is 83lpcd. To bring it to the assigned 90lpcd, the

improvement works by TWAD board are in progress. The existing treatment plant

designed for treating 5.7 MLD needs to be augmented to 7.6 MLD (2036) with an

intermediate 6.5 MLD (2021) for the projected design population envisaged by TWAD.

As mentioned earlier, this would involve besides the existing 3 GLSRs, at Vamnalanthanparai

and Taana and the 40HTs, constructing a further new clear water sumps of 5 LL (1 hour

detention time), 4 LL (near existing) and 60,000 lit (Taana) and 7ESRs.

Thus the raw water tapped would increase by 33% (from 5.7MLD to 7.6MLD) by the TWAD

board exercise. As per our forecast population the situation would imply as below:

Table 4.2: Projected Population and Water Supply Demand

YEAR POPULATION WITH 15% @90 LPCD @135 LPCD



47

INCRE

ASE

2011 54178 62304 5607360 8411040

2021 60761 69875 6288750 9433125

2031 68143 78364 7052760 10579140

2041 76423 87886 7909740 11864610

Source: IPE Analysis.

The supply at 90 lpcd would be adequate with 7.6 MLD envisaged by TWAD but with the

increased supply (@135 lpcd) it would be short by nearly 3 MLD.

Table 4.3: Water Supply Demand (@90 LPCD)

Year Demand @90lpcd

2011 5.6 MLD

2021 6.2 MLD

2031 7 MLD

2041 7.9 MLD


Fig 4.1: Water Demand

Source: IPE Anlaysis

Assumptions: 47% HHs. have HSCs @ 83 lpcd (2006)

(ii) The existing status is already known to the ULB for updating performance in water supply to

raise standards from:

• 83 lpcd at present to 90lpcd and ultimately to 135 lpcd.

• Reduce T & D losses to 2% from 5%.

• Improve distribution reach from 80% to 100%

• Enhance treatment of storage capacity from 39% to 100%

• Improve PT assessment with HSCs from 47% to 100%.

Presently HSCs are charged a flat rate of Rs.55/ month for residential connections and Rs. 105/

month for commercial connections, with a one time connection fee of Rs. 3000 and Rs.

6000 respectively.

4.1.3 Demand Supply Gap



48

For getting a realistic demand for Vikramasingapuram, it is prudent to add 15% population to the

projected population for achieving efficiency in service delivery. This has already been

done in Table 4.2

The water supply improvement scheme envisaged in the DPR for Vikramasingapuram was

necessary for addressing water supply (in Meenakshipuram, Pasukidavilai, Mudaliarpatti,

Ayyanarkulam, Ambalavanapuram and Sankaranpandinpuram) created due to ground

variations and which fall north of the Municipality. It entails a proposed treatment plant

(for water demand beyond the intermediate (2021/ 6.5MLD) for an ultimate additional

demand of 2.55 MLD (the intermediate is to be served by rehabilitating existing

treatment plants as suggested by the financing Institution TUFIDCO). New construction

in the scheme are besides the treatment plant, an additional 7 ESRs which obtains an

additional length of 25.5 kms, includes ancillary works as culvert/ drain crossing, road

cutting/ restoration, bifurcation valves, power and support RCC columns etc.

The additional components of the water supply scheme are sufficient for meeting the ultimate

requirements of the town and will close the demand supply gap.

Table 4.4: Total HHs forecasted with HSCs

YEAR % HHS WITH HSCS @ LPCD HHS

2011 75% 90 18059

2021 100% 108 20253

2031 100% 120 22714

2041 100% 135 25474


Table 4.5: HH Forcast for Water Demand for HSCs : Non HSCs

YEAR HH WITH

HSCS: NON HSCS

POPULATIONWITH

HSCS : NON HSCS

WATER

DEMAND

@ 90 LPCD (2011)

@ 108 LPCD

(2021)

@ 120 LPCD

(2031)

@ 135 LPCD

(2041)

2011 13542 : 4516 40626 : 13548 4.86 MLD

2021 20253 : 0 60761 : 0 6.56 MLD

2031 22714 : 0 68143 : 0 8.17 MLD

2041 25475 : 0 76423 : 0 10.31 MLD




49

Fig 4.2: Water Demand at Assumed Consumption Level


Table 4.6: Water Supply Indicators

INDICATORS VALUE

• Gross lpcd 83

• % Storage Capacity 39%

• % HHs assessed with HSCs 47%

• Ratio of Distribution network length to

total Road Length

80%

• Cost / 1000 litres Rs.2.53

• Revenue /1000 litres Rs.1.99

• Current collection Performance 23%


4.1.4 Designing the Services

(i) Distribution is best in a grid pattern with interconnected mains keeping dead ends to a

minimum; this way any point is fed at least from two different directions. Smaller water

supplies may resort to tree system when smaller mains branch off from single trunk main.

(ii) Distribution should ensure equalization of supply throughout the area. If adjoining zones

differ in elevation by 15m-25m, then each zone needs a separate system. Zoning of water

supplies takes into account population densities/locality type/topography and the ease

with which the system can be isolated when leaks occurs.

(iii) When water supply is fed through a single reservoir, it is economical to place it at a

central place. Difference in elevation should be used to advantage when locating

reservoirs at ground level. Difference in pressure between same zones/same system

Water Demand



50

should not exceed 3m to 5m. Tail end reservoirs are desirable for the more distant direct

locations, and are fed by supply either by boosting or during lean hours.

Storage provision, as recommended should be for 24 hours water requirement of command area

at the reservoir site. Since a number of sources are used, at least one day storage is

expected (for any eventuality). Storage volume for 2021 projected water demand is

suggested along with provision for future augmentation.

(iv) The different water zones for the city are given in table 4.8, demarcated to provide

coverage to the entire development in the town. As per practice, R.C.C construction is

used, proper protection ensured and unnecessary utility services, disinfection, ground and

security wall is provided.

(v) Water losses need to be minimized. Classified as physical (due to leakage, old damage

and corroded pipes, leaking joint connections, overflow at OH Tanks, poor plumbing at

consumer end) or administrative (as theft, illegal tapping, unregistered connections,

faculty meters, unrecorded supply, poor recording, faulty billing) water audits and leak

detection studies become necessary to curb such menaces. An information base of

reliable data (preferably GIS enabled) can ensure efficient delivery and conserve a scarce

resource.

The tariff for water is fixed by the Executive Officer through a consultation process with the

ULB. The last revision in tariff was in 2005. The Demand – Collection Balance statement

Table 4.7 through the years 2002-07 have shown variation in the collection efficiency

ranging from 100% to 23% averaging at 50%. The lowest was in FY 07 [23%] with

consistent decline between FY 04-07. This maybe due to poor service delivery,

unwillingness to pay, weak management, or even high collection cost. Reasons would

have to be pinpointed to improve service and enable the ULB to enhance its HSCs base,

both domestic and non-domestic. Bringing reforms as e-billing, incentives, penalties and

GIS based property registration would prove rewarding.

4.1.5 User Charges and Collection Efficiency

Table 4.7: Water Tax. Demand Collection Balance Statement

ITEMS FY FY FY FY FY

03 04 05 06 07

Demand (In Lakhs Rs.)

Arrears 0.00 0.00 0.00 64.41 81.43

Current 30.59 46.35 46.80 51.48 55.00

Total 30.60 46.36 46.80 115.89 136.43

Collection (In Lakhs Rs.)

Arrears 0.00 0.00 0.00 9.79 7.63

Current 30.59 23.99 20.66 24.68 24.02

Total 30.59 23.99 20.66 34.46 31.65

Collection Performance

Arrears 0% 0% 0% 15% 9%

Current 100% 52% 44% 48% 44%

Total 100% 52% 44% 30% 23%




51

4.1.6 Key Issues

• Coverage of HSCs to 75% can enlarge the revenue base from water tax for which the

already prepared DPR should be urgently taken up for implementation. This will help

keep in step with the water demand.

• Future strategies for water recycling and adopting new technology is necessary

knowing that over use of water should be discouraged. Energy costs for pumping are an

environmental cost.

• Policy for locating ESRS on higher elevation naturally available in the town should be

explored. The trade offs for cost can be determined between longer hours for supply to

longer length of water mains.

• Distribution network reach needs to fill existing gap and ensure zero gaps in future.

• Roof rain water harvesting should be mandated in the building bye laws. Recharging

depleted water bodies and storing water during monsoon is recommended.

• All slum areas should be covered adequately for supply.

• Elevated reservoirs may combine other uses such as offices within a structure which

can handle both functions safely

4.1.7 Effective Practices

Certain practices, adopted across countries could serve to guide ULB water supply systems in

Tamil Nadu including in the reference ULBs.

• Water audits for ascertaining unaccounted for water (especially in underground pipes)

• O&M Plan. Adopting an O&M Plan with a schedule; with private participation (e.g.

Management contracts).

• Mapping & GIS is important in laying of services, detecting dilapidation and renewing

etc.

• Tariff Revision is essential to enlarging the coverage and recovering costs/debt

servicing/modernizing/installation of equipment etc.

• Performance Monitoring for better service delivery, consumer satisfaction and continued

service.

• Capacity Building and institutional strengthening Training needs for field staff is required

for operating, maintaining and servicing the water supply system.

4.1.8 Enhancement of Water Supply-2009

Water Supply System has been strategically enhanced in the town with water supply raising form

2.9MLD to 4.8MLD. The revised service levels and a comparison of desired service

levels for the town are provided in the table below:

Table Error! No text of specified style in document..9: Revised Service Level Compared with

desired Service level

S. NO HEADS 2007

2009 2011

2015 2021 2041 UNIT

1 Daily Supply 2.90 4.80 5.35 5.80 6.47 8.61 MLD

2 Per capita supply 88.00 146.00 135 135 135 135 LPCD



52

3 Treatment capacity 0.00 0.00 5.35 5.80 6.47 8.61 ML

4 Roads Covered with

Distribution Network

43.87 46.00 51.77 54.75 61.11 81.29 Km.

5 Elevated Storage

capacity w.r.t Supply

1.30 1.89 1.78 1.93 2.16 2.6 ML

6 Refurbishment of Old

Distribution Network

0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 23 23 Km.

7 Metering System Not available Required Nos.

8 Development of

Monitoring System

Not available Required LS

9 LPCD with same

water supply-4.8

146 121 112 100 75 LPCD

Source: Ambasamudram Municipality, June 2009 and IPE Analysis

4.1.9 Strategies and Time Frame

The following strategies and time frame has been adopted to over come the identified gaps in

water supply sector.

Table 4.8: Strategies and Time Frame – Water Supply

Sl. No. Strategy 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

1 Asset Management Plan

2 Leak detection plan

3 Mapping & GIS

4 Piloting 24/7 water supply

5 Source Augmentation

6 General Households

7 Households coverage for slum

Source: IPE

4.2 Sewerage and Sanitation Systems

4.2.1 Existing Sewerage System

Existence of a sewerage system in a town determines its environmental status; the development of

the system and its efficient treatment is a prerequisite for a quality of life. Issues of

covering large populations emerging in urban areas, augmenting the system, adopting

technologies for treating the liquid waste etc. have to be resolved, especially when water

is scarce, financial resources burdensome, and people unwilling to pay for improvement.

In the state of Tamilnadu, the TWAD Board is the planning agency for what is termed the

“Underground Drainage” (UGD), and ULB executes, operates and maintains it.

4.2.2 Current Disposal System



53

There is no standard sewerage system in Vikramasingapuram for disposing off sewage and

sullage. The present disposal system consists of a combination of septic tanks and

community toilets. Untreated sewage and liquid waste is transported through surface

drains (both Pucca and Kutcha) in all parts of the town to be let out raw into the canal or

accumulate in low lying stretches, creating unhealthy environments. Slum dwellers as

well as other low income population depend on community toilets or defecate in the

open.

Coverage of Sanitation

Table 4.9 ULB Sanitation

Item Unit

Town area 38.57 sq kms

Population (2001) 48307 persons

Septic tank Connected to 11425 HHs (62.4 %total

properties)

Low cost sanitation units nil

Community toilets Slums under VAMBAY scheme

3 toilets @7 seats each.. 21 seats

Non slums.. 4 toilets @ 10 seats each 40 seats

Source: Vikramasingapuram Municipality 2007

Nearly 62% HHs in the town have access to some safe form of sewerage with septic tanks; the

coverage is low and an aspect of concern, with the alternative of community toilets not

being satisfactorily maintained. The public conveniences provided have limited seats

which cover only the visitors to the city. Open defecation must be totally disapproved due

to its environmental risks.

Nearly 11,425 properties (62.43% of total) are assessed for property tax and have septic tank

connections; the remaining population depends on Community toilets or defecates in the

open. Community toilets are normally poorly maintained and have inadequate seats as

required by the standards. It appears that in Vikramasingapuram the provision for toilet

seats is nearly 140 persons/seat and would need to be upped three times for the present

population to be adequately served by this mode. Open defecation must be totally

disapproved due to the environmental health risks.

4.2.3 Putting a Sewerage System in Place

The Under ground sewerage system will be designed for zones compatible with the natural

topography and cater to populations in the different city zones including the core area and

the extended city. In the elementary stage, oxidation ponds are used for primary

treatment. The municipality has to use equipment like vacuum pumps and jetting

machines to clear choked lines, water logging and for clearing septic tanks. Sewage can

also be disposed off in sewage farms and on land.

4.2.4 Issues



54

1. Absence of sewerage facility and poor sanitation can often result in water borne diseases

in the town, especially when population densities are intense and neighbourhoods are

closely packed. Future population needs to be protected from health risks.

2. Mixing of sewage, storm water and solid waste can be hazardous; especially dumping night

soil into water bodies can have adverse ecological impacts.

3. As there is no sewerage facility the user charges cannot be imposed and municipal finance is

affected.

4. Uncontrolled solid waste dumping and encroachments results in silt formation; open SW

drains become easy dumping places of waste in the town and often block flow resulting

in overflows.

4.2.5 Demand and Supply Gaps

Planning for sewage treatment demands 80% of water consumption. Accordingly water

consumption @135 lpd has been assumed for the projected population of 87886 for the

year 2041. This produces sewage of 9.5 MLD (2041).

Table 4.10: Sewage System Proposed

YEAR POPULATION PER CAPITA

SEWAGE

GENERATION

(LITERS)

LENGTHUGD

NETWORK

(KMS)

TREATMENT

PLANTCAPACITY

%PROPERTIES

CONNECTEDBY

HSCS

2011 62304 108 74.5 6.7 100 %

2021 69875 -do -do 7.5

2031 78365 -do -do 8.4

2041 87886 108 -do 9.5


Note: 1. Assuming there is no increase in road length network and future growth. Future growth will be

as infill re-densification

2. The length of the distribution network will depend on spread of future urban areas and the

associated network of roads. At a conservative estimate, by 2041 the length of

distribution network will be 100 kms.

4.2.6 Strategies and Time Frame.

Table 4.11: Strategies and Time Frame – Sewerage and Sanitation System

Sl. No. Strategy 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

1 Asset Management Plan

2 Sewerage for unserved areas

3 Mapping & GIS

4 Network Coverage of Slum Households




55

4.2.7 Designing the System

(a) Sewerage treatment is dependent on how the final product has to be utilized and who

will regulate it to ensure it is of unpolluted form. The by products of sewerage treatment

(manure, gas and liquid waste) can be used, as done in different cities in India.

(b) Treatment plants require to be decentralized to meet neighborhood needs for all the

end products. Large scale treatment plants should be designed and completed in not more

than 1-2 years and should normally meet the requirements of a 30 year period.

(c) Industrial waste, quantified as population equivalent, for suspended solids and BOD

(90 gm and 45 gm respectively) is used for levying charges for accepting industrial waste

into the sanitary sewers. They should however be within tolerance limits set by BIS codes

for discharge onto land or water bodies.

(d) Reduction of BOD, SS, and total coliforms are expected of the sewage treated for

primary, secondary and tertiary levels. Settled sewage or sludge should be mixed with

peat / manure, composted completely (ensuring dehelminthization) and then sold for use

on farms.

(e) Conventional systems require large amount of land for treating effluent before

discharging. Since the consultants are proposing that settlements in the western ghat

region be developed on “Green” principles, the sewerage system envisaged takes a

longer perspective and considers decentralized STPs as friendlier solutions, both in

facilitating compact thereby low energy) development and utilizing new technology

spread over smaller plots of land whilst eliminating the need for digging deep sewers

which have proved hazardous.

4.2.8 Suggestions

• Low income households should be taken up for sanitation on a priority: provision of eco

– toilets can be considered. Here the toilet is above ground, three outlets are provided for

excreta, urine and water to be used, which are collected in separate chambers (Elevated

toilets are practical where water table is high, water is short or the terrain is rocky). Later

this toilet can connect to the city sewerage system. Karnataka has adopted these forms of

toilets to great success.

• A regular sewerage and storm water system should be designed and laid in the town.

• Buffalo / cow dung and other objectionable material entry into sewers has to be

prevented.

• As far as possible sewers should be cleaned with modern suction and other jet washing

machines reducing manual labour to a minimum and only in dire circumstances.

• Unauthorized connections have to be detected / penalized and later regularized within

short time frames.

• People, especially slum dwellers have to be prepared to accept sanitary system and

understand how to maintain hygiene.

• O & M plans are important and private management contracts can be operationalzed.

• Assets created in the town need to be well managed.

• Mapping and GIS are important for detailing the sanitary system, repairing it, and

renewing it after it has outlived its life.

• Tariffs need to be determined based on upgrading, recovering costs, and servicing the

debts from invested capital.

• Needless to say that performance of the sewerage system has to be consistently

monitored.



56

• The 7 slums located in wards mentioned earlier have a population of 3,550 within 1,010

HHs some of whom are in the notified slum pockets. Often they are located near water

bodies, in ward interiors or along major roads. In all they occupy 4.22 sq.kms.46% of

slum population is BPL the largest concentration being in ward 11.The standard for toilet

seats in community toilets is far below recommended, is filthy and on very poorly

drained area with solid waste strewn around.

• Slums in Vikramasingapuram are not covered by the IHSDP or BSUP schemes.

• Slum communities need to be organized to involve in slum improvement programs for

ensuring their sustainability.

• It is important to have individual HH’s avail independent toilet facilities and HSC’s so as

to be part of the standard city population.

4.3 Roads and Storm Water Drainage

Drainage, an important element of physical infrastructure helps remove and dispose off surplus

rainwater from the land. Urban expansion, an inevitable process, would imply providing

new drains as well as supplementary drains and also remodeling of existing drains due to

the increased run off co- efficient.

4.3.1 Existing System and its Adequacy

The city does not have an underground system. The terrain slopes towards the river; the north

Kodamelalagian channel runs east-west through the ULB area with most habitation north

of the channel, its southern side devoted to wet lands/ paddy culvitation with the terrain

helping to log water in the area between the channel and the river.

Drains are open type, nearly 58 kms in length and lined. Roads not covered by drains are subject

to erosion by rain water. Effective drainage helps reduce stagnant water and pot holed

roads as well as repeated resurfacing which is often repeatedly practiced by most

municipalities.

4.3.2 Current Improvement Proposals

Road sections/wards poorly drained are to be attended by projects listed for road improvement

works as framed in the prepared DPR FY-08 for all the ward roads of the town. A brief

abstract of the project is given in Table 4.12.

Table 4.12: Proposed Projects for Roads and Drains

ROAD TYPE ROAD WIDTH

(IN METRE)

ROAD

LENGT

H

(KMS)

DRAIN TYPE

Up to 3m 3-5m Single

Double

Earthen to cc paved 10.4 2.54 12.94 9.4 2.6

WBM layer to

BT/CC road

0.12 0.10 0.22 --- --



57

Renewal of BT road 0.94 2.38 3.32 --- 0.52

Repair reconstruction

of CC road

0.24 -- 0.24 --- --

Road widening Nil

Total 16.72 kms 9.4 kms 3.12 kms

Estimated Cost 211.8 Lakhs 0.94 Lakhs 0.78 Lakhs

Source: DPR for Road and Drains – FY 08

For the total road length of 67 kms, 25% is being upgraded to pucca roads with drains added to

(10kms. single and 3 kms. double sided) the project.

Table 4.13: Existing Situation: Road Networks

ITEM LENGTH

(KMS)

PERCENTAGE

• Surfaced Road

Concrete

Tarred/BT

WBM

Total

22.99

29.89

0

52.88

34.40

44.8

0.00

79.2

• Unsurfaced Road

Earthen

Others

Total

15.24

0.00

15.24

20.8

0.00

20.8

Total 66.8 kms 100 %

Source: DPR for Road and Drains – FY 08

4.3.3 Issues

Roads are proposed to be improved but alongside the drains are not being considered for both

sideswhich would have been preferable. Drains not just remove storm water but also

sewage and sullage which is dumped in. Thus drains need to be designed for year long

flow with their width, depth and culettes conforming to GANTT charts and sewerage

manuals. Similarly roads have to conform to CBR values.

4.3.4 Gap Analysis

Drainage is not perceived as as a key issue on account of the large number of water bodies which

help draining (16 ponds, 1 canal and 1 river). Yet well designed drains ensure

environmental health.Ideally there should be 134 km, length of drains which implies a

gap of 77kms. The proposed DPR will cover 13kms leaving a gap of 64 kms.

4.3.5 Strategies and Time Frame



58

Table 4.14: Strategies and Time Frame – Storm Water Drainage

Sl. No. Strategy 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

1 Constructions of Drains

2 Rejuvenation and

Rehabilitation works

for Water Bodies

3 Operation and Maintenance

Schedule

4.4 Traffic and Transportation

Urban economy is seen to improve with urban transport infrastructure. Roads and circulation

is an important city land use allowing efficient functioning of the city’s activities.

Conversely, it can drag down and prove detrimental to its GDP

4.4.1 Existing Situation and Adequacy

• The land use distribution of the city has a very meagre land under roads (2%). Main city

roads aligned EW are the Ayyanarkulam road, Ambai-Papanasam road,

Ambavalanapuram and the Papanasam; in the other direction are the Keelakottaram road,

The Kottaram main road, the Karaiyar Dam road, the Servalar dam road, the

Thiruvandapuram road, West car and East car street, Poonthottam street.

• The indicator for road density 1.74 sq. km. is short of the benchmark of 10-

15kms./sq.km. The per capita road length 1.23 m is also short of the standard of 1.75 m.

Surfaced roads (existing 77%) should be 100 percent surfaced. Project roads will increase

this length by 16.7 km adding 25 percent length.

• The development in scattered fashion is served by linear roads. Within is a system of grid

iron streets giving access to residential areas while the commercial areas and bus routes

are aligned along the main roads.The composition of roads by surface type is given in

Table 4.13.

• Interior road widths range from1.5 to 9 m. There is no strict road hierarchy. The plan on

future should engage on this.

• All roads are municipality maintained as the town does not have a state highway passing

through. Public transport is by auto and mini buses. The bus stand in ward 6 at an

important junction is conveniently located but fairly congested needing both upgradation

and as a revenue source.

4.4.2 Issues

• Absence of organized parking near bus stand

• Absence of parking areas near commercial and other public areas

• Carriageway widths need to be maintained

• Connection to regional roads needs to be strengthened

4.4.3 Suggestions



59

• Traffic surveys can provide causes of delays and its rectification

• Signals, crossings, sidewalks, road markings, intersection treatment, bus bays & shelter,

landscaping & street furniture are areas needing attention.

• Campaigns for road safety, driving behavior, road education are important for citizen

safety

• Essential road furniture includes

o Kilometers stones / signboards

o Road painting with reflectorised thermoplastic paint.

o Regulatory / cautionary sign boards

o Street lights of standard intensity and at standard distances.

o High mast lights at all major junctions.

o Other signs as required

o Policy on advertisements / hoardings.

• Review location of alternate bus stand

4.4.4 Railways

At a distance of 9 km there is need for for a line extension, or, frequent low cost to and fro bus

journey between this town and Ambasamudram to boost both city economies.

4.4.5 Strategies and Time frame

Table 4.15: Strategies and Time Frame

Sl. No. Strategy 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

1 Up – gradation of Roads

2 Formation of New Roads

3 Pedestrianisation & Signages

4 Parking Management

5 Junction Improvement

6 Widening & Strengthening

4.5 Solid Waste Management

One of the most critical it is also one of the most poorly managed function of most municipalities.

It is important to address it by relooking at system technology, finance, and other

associated problems so that problems don’t get out of hand.

4.5.1 Existing System and Adequacy

Several kinds of wastes are generated in a city, as, commercial, household, bio medical,

construction, hotels etc. Increase in incomes also leads to more waste generation. Tourist

and visitor inflows add to the quantum of waste. Besides there is street sweeping and

occasions such as marriages, festivals all of which require quick off loading and disposal

before it putrifies. Other factors as birds, dogs and cats, pigs, flies and insects both living

and dead have to be taken care of. The municipality’s domain in this matter is very wide.

Table 4.16: SWM Status and Indicators



60

ITEM UNIT BENCHMARK GAP

Garbage generated /day/MT 12.00 _ _

Collection by municipality/day/MT 10.00

83.33%

100% 17%

Collection by private

contractor/day/MT

NIL _ _

Water generation gln/day 216 <350 nil

Area covered per collection

point(sq km)

1.8 0.16 90%

Moisture 5% _ _

Door to door collection efficiency 75% 100% _

Collection frequency daily daily _

Dustbins capacity (0.1 MT) Nos 142 _ _

Hand carts (0.3 MT) Nos 25 _ _

Waste treatment (secondary to

disposal site)

Tipper Lorry

Non Tipper Lorry

Tipper Auto

Mini lorry @ 3trips/ day

Power Tiller @10 trip /day

1 No.- 2.5 MT each

1 No.-1.5

MTeach

4 No.- 2.8

MT each

5.25 MT

Quantitytransported

4.75 MT quantity

transported

Source: Vikramasingapuram Municipalilty and IPE Analysis

Table 4.17: Quantity of Waste by Source

ITEM QUANTITY (MT) %

Domestic 5.8 48.5

Commercial 2.2 18.4

Institution/hospital / Ind /other 4.0 33.2

Total 12.00 100.00

Source: Vikramasingapuram Municipalilty, 2006 and IPE Analysis

Note: Waste generation by hospital - 0.18 MT

Waste generation by eating places - 0.5 MT

The municipality disposes the collected waste to a site of 6.4 acres located at

Kattaboman colony.

4.5.2 Composition of Waste



61

Majority of waste generated is by the domestic households and collected through street sweeping.

Per capita generation in Vikramasingapuram is 216 grams per day. Solid waste generated

in Vikramasingapuram is mainly organic in nature. The major contributors to the solid

waste generated in the town are households and commercial areas. The other major

components being inert material mixed with paper and plastic. Apart from these, bio-

medical waste also mixes with the domestic solid waste generated by the city.

• Domestic waste per household varies from area to area with an average as given, yielding

nearly 5.8 MT per day, the market waste (mostly decomposable) is around 2.2 MT

including paper, plastic, metal and other inorganic material.

• Biomedical waste (0.2 MT) is required to be destroyed by the Hospital authorities but the

prevalent practice is to bury it at the compost yard. It is required to be scientifically

handled as per the manual guidelines and SWM rules (2000) mandated by State Pollution

Control Boards.

4.5.3 Solid Waste Collection, Treatment, Disposal

Primary Collection and Street Sweeping The ULB has 21 wards with 4 sanitation wards. The municipality has detailed wardwise

information on populations/ HHs from whom door to door collection is made through use

of push carts in two day trips (6.30 - 8.30 am and 8.30 -10.00 am) with a capacity to carry

80 kgs/ trip which average to 215 kgs/ ward. This sytem requires 3 bins to be placed from

secondary collection points. Norms suggest 250 HHs to be handled per sweeper, and

distance norms of 70 m. for unloading waste at the secondary collection point. Together

the system upto this point can have a capacity to handle 13.5 MT of waste (in actual

practice there are 142 dust bins of 0.1 MT capacity each giving total capacity of 14.2 MT

which is sufficient). 100 percent collection efficiency has been reported.

Secondary Collection The clearing of bins and transportation to disposal site (which is 5 km away on a 6.84 acre site

located at Kattaboman) is done daily; its weight /volume/estimated by visual inspection;

the activity is being performed by Tipper autos/ lorries.

4.5.4 Issues

• Biomedical and construction waste requires serious consideration for disposal.

• Waste not being scientifically treated and managed. Absence of covering the waste daily

with inert material.

• Waste not compacted on disposal site.

• Source segregation not ensured.

• No separate community bins for bio and non biodegradable waste.

• Absence of community composting of ward level.

• Absence of ragpickers organized for waste resource recovery.

• Very little private participation for public toilet maintenance; community

awareness/participation missing.

• Absence of information systems/ penalties/ periods campaign for ensuring clean town.



62

4.5.5 Suggestions

• Priority has to be accorded to segregation and storage of waste at source irrespective of

area of generation so as to adopt environmentally acceptable waste management

measures.

• The adoption of four R’s - Reuse, Recover, Recycle and Reduce can help ease pressure

on landfill sites and affords resource recovery.

• Varieties of waste have to be differently dealt with; construction waste should be stored

in proper skips at the premise and directly emptied by the generator at notified sites;

slaughter houses need to keep separate container for animal and other wastes;

Commercial – Hotel – Market waste should be privately collected and disposed.

• A number of campaigns / community awareness should be organized for introducing

source segregation.

• Waste handling operation should be minimized; non – biodegradable waste from

premises should have organized collection.

• Primary collection should cover all areas of the town with even innovative but safe

transporting arrangements.

• Street sweeping should be gradually privatized to include market and other areas /

desilting of drains / collection of green waste / hospital and hazardous waste / gardens

and other recreational areas / Religious and other public places etc.

• Recycling efforts by self employment SHGs should be encouraged

• For townships as Vikramasingapuram which are in close proximity to 4 other urban

areas, all within a 10 km, should adopt regional engineered land fill site for waste

disposal. This ensures scale and viability to the private participation mode.

4.6 Street Lighting

4.6.1 Existing Situation

The provision and maintenance of street lights is an obligatory function of Vikramasingapuram

Municipality. This includes their installations, replacement/ repair, operation and

maintenance. There are 1610 street light poles in the town with various types of

illumanaires given in the table below.

Table 4.18: Existing Status - Street Lighting

LUMINARY TYPE NOS. %

Tube lights (40w) 1400 87

Sodium vapor lamps

(150w)

210 13

Mercury vapor lamps

(125w)

0

Total 1610 100.00

Source: Vikramasingapuram Municipalilty

Table 4.19: Urban Indicators (Street Lights)

INDICATOR VALUE BENCHMARK

Spacing between 53m 30m



63

lights(m)

Ratio tube lights : low

Energy lights

9: 1 All lights should be

low energy

O&M Cast/ light. NA NA


4.6.2 Coverage

Coverage of street lights is highly inadequate and needs to be doubled. High mast lights, though

of higher initial cost, serve to illuminate much larger areas, are low energy users, are less

damaged/ vandalized due to their height, and serve to effectively illuminate traffic

junctions/ high traffic zones thereby averting accidents/ thefts/ other mishaps. They need

to be introduced to serve at least 40 percent of illumination requirements.

4.6.3 Issues

• Standards for illumination have to be adhered.

• Timers to street lights ensure less wasteful culture.

• Energy audits and low energy adoption measures need to be undertaken for reducing

energy expenditure by municipality by at least half.

• Solar lamps (sponsored by business houses/ communities/ other active participants)

should be adopted.

• Residential area safety with adequate illumination should be ensured.

4.7 Social Infrastructure

4.7.1 Education

High literacy level in Ambasamudram taluk, Tirunelveli district has given this town an edge. A

number of educational institutions ensure adequate enrolment as shown in table below:

Table 4.20: Existing Status – Educational Institutes

INSTITUTION NOS ENROLLMENT

Primary school 8 2875

Middle 3 1850

High 4 2560

Art collage 1 960

Total 16 7245


With 15% of town population engaged in education activity and 33% as workers gives an account

of nearly half the population engaged in meaningful activities. There is need to up

educational profiles of people enabling them to be entrepreneurs or skill fully employed

persons by equipping them with requisite education and training. This is important to

complete with others and upgrade this quality of life.

There is dearth of science, commerce, engineering, medicine, arts and graphics, agricultural

science, I.T. and other educational institutes relevant to today’s needs. Strengthening the

educational base of the town and further envisioning it as a concentrated node of



64

educational activities could help deliver economic growth and its renewal. This study

considers the presence and propagation of educational institutes as having tremendous

influence in the town’s future growth, whose impacts can be far reaching and also help

enriching the human resource base and thereby ensuring positive developmental

outcomes.

Though no gap is perceived in this particular social infrastructure but its enhancement is seen as a

strategic move. It is suggested that institutes relating to IT, fashion, traditional art,

architecture and design, hospitality, enterprise and management development, commerce,

basic accounting, law, tourism & environmental studies etc. be located in special

Educational Zones in the town or as adjunct to the town. Establishing institutes ensures

regenerating the town’s ethnicity, economy and sustainability

CDP - VIKRAMASINGAPURAM INTERIM REPORT

CMA, GoTN INFRASTRUCTURE PROFESSIONALS ENTERPRISES (P) LTD

65

Plate 3: The Town’s Physical Infrastructure - Vikramasingapuram

CDP - VIKARAMSINGAPURAM FINAL REPORT

CMA, GoTN 66

INFRASTRUCTURE PROFESSIONALS ENTERPRISE (P) LTD

4.7.2 Health

The town’s - both public and private health facility constitute of one government hospital, 2

private hospitals and 7 nursing homes sharing between them about 30 beds and 21

qualified doctors.

Table 4.21: Existing Status – Health Facilities

FACILITY TYPE NO.S. BEDS

Government hospitals 1 NA

Private hospitals 2 NA

Nursing homes 7 NA

Total 10 30


4.7.3 Socio-Cultural

The city enjoys harmonious relation amongst different communities, castes, religious groups

and other socio cultural factors. Fairs and festivals are enjoyed by all and there have

been no recorded incidents of any violence, dissidence or other forms of revolt.

Conversely people of all denominations desire unity in tackling city issues and

peaceful resolutions to all issues. This is a very positive aspect and should be

constructively used in community participation and awareness programs.

Table 4.22: Religious Buildings

BUILDING TYPE NOS

Temples 6

Mosques 4

Churches 7


4.7.4 Public Places

The numbers of tourist places/ pilgrim centres in and around the town are sufficient for

tourism projects to take off. The town being an entry town to the natural areas can

capture tourists if tourist infrastructure is in place. All water bodies in the area can be

made into picnic spots for citizen’s enjoyment. The town has one library, three

cinema houses, one auditorium and one organized park in the city.

The office complexes have Fire Station, Post and Telegraph Office, Police Station, Ranks and

other city amenities.The town has Burial grounds and a Crematorium.

Greens can be developed into picturesque area along the two water channel and riverside,

integrating them through shaded avenues with the other 16 water bodies in the town.

There is need to culturally keep the town activated by providing opportunities for

song/ dance/ drama/ art exhibitions/ other cultural activities for the enjoyment of

citizens.

4.7.5 Issues

Social Infrastructure in a town is contributory to its development and growth as well as

fulfillment of non-material goals. Infrastructure standards should be such to be


CMA, GoTN 67


availed by all, and, inadequate infrastructure especially to the urban poor should be

avoided at all costs.


CMA, GoTN 68


Chapter 5 HOUSING, SLUMS and THE URBAN POOR

5.1 Introduction

Housing is a crucial requirement in a city no matter what the size. It is also the largest

Land use constituting nearly half of all Land uses in the city. It can be available

in many forms as:

• Government and Municipal Housing

• Rental Housing

• Co. operative housing in lots or apartments.

• Privately developed colonies

• Unauthorized occupation of government or other private lands

• Squatting and temporary hutments

• Core area dilapidated housing etc.

Several variations of these types exist in almost all small, medium or large towns, the

commonest being self occupied self owned, or rental housing, with the rest being

driven to marginal options as slums, squatting or pavement dwelling. Towns in Tamil

Nadu, as the ones in our reference study have very little speculative housing because

of a poorly organized real estate market.

Most housing plans have no provision for housing for the poor, thus depriving them of

adequate housing. State intervention is necessary in this matter and for enjoying a

dignity of life; the vulnerable population has to be covered for housing. Currently,

central programs are specially committed to resolve this dilemma and special funds

devised to execute the schemes for housing the poor.

5.2 Housing Conditions

Vikramsinghpuram town has grown around the aforementioned 13 villages of which 4 are

located on the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats at foot of the Pothigai hills in

picturesque surroundings and containing within them the reserve forests, three dam

sites (Upper, Lower and the Servalar dams) the River Tambraparni and plant of the

Kodamelalagian channel from where the towns water supply is sourced. It proximity

to the taluka headquarter Ambasuamudram (about 9 kms), various waterfalls in the

region namely, Agasthyar, Papanasam, Courtallam, Manimuthar, Wildlife and bird

sanctuary as Kalakad Mundanthurai and Kunthankulam, make it ideal for capturing

tourism especially religious, adventure and eco-tourism considering natural resources

and several temples, myths and legends associated with the belt which are now being

substantiated by the Archological Survey’s findings in this region. Thus, the towns

historicity is fairly established and further inquiry into documented and other

information sources can yield further evidence; its location off the SH-40 but

connected to it through the Papanasam Road is both an advantage and disadvantage

depending on how the town is economically positioned, but explains why with the

downsizing of Madura Coats factory has adversely affected the town’s growth.

Core areas have G+1 or G+ 2 developments and mixed landuses and pucca construction.

Housing condition is brifly described below:-

Table 5. 1 Housing Condition (for Roof, Floor, Walls)


CMA, GoTN 69


BUILDING TYPE HOUSES(NO

S)

%

Kutcha 350 2.1

Semi pucca 9625 57.9

Pucca 6650 40.0

Total 16625 100


Affordabilities for a permanent durable house vary as shown by the figures, with less than

half of the houses being of permanent type.

5.3 Slums and BPL Population

Nearly 422 Ha of land is occupied by slum housing covering 3,550 persons. The BPL

population, as percentage of slum population is shown in Table 5.2.

Table 5.2: Ward-wise Slum Population

S. NO. WARD NO. SLUM NAME ARE SLUM

POPU

LATI

ON

(2001)

(PERS

ONS

& % AGE)

SLUM

H/HS

SLUM WARD

POPULATION

1 3 Meenakshipuram,

Arunthathiyar

Colony

92 380

(10.70%)

110 2412

2 9 Pothigaiyadi 43 220

(6.20%)

30 2071

3 11 Anavankudiyiruppu 112 1100

(30.99%)

290 2794

4 13 Kamaraj Nagar 90 300

(8.45%)

90 2708

5 19 Gandhipuram,

Maruthuvar colony

85 550

(15.49%)

160 2285

6 20 Harijan colony &

Kamaraj Nagar

- 600

(16.90%)

180 2103

7 21 Georgepuram - 400

(11.27%)

150 2119

Total 422 1548

(100%)

1010 16,492

Source: Vikramasingapuram Municipality& IPE Analysis


CMA, GoTN 70


Observations: BPL: Slum Population = 46.0%

Slum Population: Town Population = 7.40%

BPL Population: Town Population = 3.40%

The profile of the urban poor is explained in the above table and its observations indicating

that the problem is of manageable scale. Measures to prevent slums may be adopted

in urgency.

Another comparision is made in the above table between the wards to show concentration of

the urban poor population. This would show where action is required within the town.

Wards which have slum population, i.e. wards 3, 9, 11, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21 require

handling sensitively the needs of the urban poor.

5.4 House Categories; Definitions

National Sample Survey Organization (NSSO) of India had categorized houses into three

types i.e. Pucca, Semi-Pucca and Kutcha. Census data on housing conditions in urban

area especially for district and taluk is available in Census of India 2001, only

through typologies of houses with various types of roof, walls and floors.

(a) Houses with Various Types of Roofs

Housing roof made up of Grass, Thatch, Bamboo, Wood, Mud, Plastic and Polythene are in

Kutcha category. Roofs made of Tiles, Slate, GI, Metal and Asbestos sheets are in

Semi-Pucca category and Brick, Stone, Concrete are in Pucca category.

(b) Houses with Various Types of Walls Housing walls made up of Grass, Thatch, Bamboo, Plastic and Polythene are in Kutcha

category. Walls made of Timber, Iron, GI, Metal and Asbestos sheets are in Semi-

Pucca category and Brunt Brick, Stone, Concrete are in Pucca category.

(c) Houses with Various Types of Floor Floors made up of Mud and Wood are in Kutcha category. Floors made of Brick and stone are

in Semi-Pucca category and Cement, Mosaic is in Pucca category.

5.5 Infrastructure Provision in Slums

(a) Water Supply Slums have piped water provided though public stand points in addition to which hand pumps

too are provided. There are 25 public stand posts and 15 hand pumps with a

distribution network running into about 14 kms within the slums.

(b) Sanitation Of the 1010 HHs in slums, 350 HHs (35%) have septic tank connections, the remaining being

served by 3 community toilets with a total of 21 seats, nearly 100 persons per seat

which is much less than the benchmark, good sanitary conditions are as important

goal.

(c) Roods & Street lights Nearly 8 km of bituminous roads are available to slum residents. These having pucca storm

water drains on one side measuring of total length 4 km.

Table 5.3: Details of Infrastructure Facilities in the Town

WATER SUPPLY STREE

LIGHT

S

NAME OF SLUMS WAR LENGTH

O

F

BT

R

O

LENGT

H

OF

S

W

D

PIPED PSP HP

PUBLIC

TOI

LET

S

WITH

SEP

TL


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A

D

S

TIC

TANKS

KMS KMS KMS NO NOS NOS.

Meenakshipuram,

Arunthathiya

colony

3 1.18 0.75 3.10 3 2 - 10

Pothigaiyadi 9 0.9 0.40 1.75 3 3 - 5

Anavankudiyiruppu 11 1.97 0.17 1.90 4 1 - 13

Kamaraj Nagar 13 1.63 1.12 1.65 5 2 1 4

Gandhipuram,

Maruthuvar colony

19 0.71 0.92 1.80 3 3 1 20

Harijan colony &

Kamaraj Nagar

20 0.82 0.41 1.92 4 2 1 22

Georgepuram 21 0.52 0.26 1.52 3 2 0 27

Total 7.73 4.03 13.64 25 15 3 101


Plate

4

&

5

:

S

lum Housing - Vikramasingapuram

(d) Indicators, Basic Services Availibity & Gaps

• 94 persons per toilet seat.

• 142 persons per public stand point

• Road density : 1.9kms/sq. km. against 10-15km/sq. km

• Road length/ Capita – 2.2 m/ km against 3-8 m/ km

• Distance of streetlights 154m against 30m

(e) Slum Housing demand and Housing Shortage

Table 5.4: Housing Gap

Year Gap

2011 1425

2021 3618

2031 6079

2041 8839


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Housing of all types (16,625 units) and all tax paying properties (17,400 units) are indicative

of the units demanded in future. An assessment of housing gap is made in Table 5.4.

The non-residential properties for the same period is provided in Table 5.5 and slum

housing estimates demand are given in Table 5.6.

Table 5.5: Demand for Non-Residential Units

Year Gap

2001 753

2011 900

2021 911

2031 1020

2041 1146

Source: IPE analysis

Table 5.6: Demand for Slum Housing

Year Gap

2001 350

2011 1252

2021 1362

2031 1485

2041 1625

Source: IPE analysis

Note: assumed that with measures adopted Slum housing units will not exceed for 5% of all

population.

5.6 Slum Improvement/ Programmes and Issues.

The town is fortunate in not having a large population of urban poor living in slums and the

problem is a manageable one. However, some improvement measures suggested are:

� Improving toilet facilities in the slum and allow for environmentally safe areas,

providing each household with at least one toilet seat, preferably individual toilets

and ascertain if it is feasible on their present locations.

� Several options for low cost sanitation exist, and, it will be encouraging to adopt

a few of those in selected slum pockets.

� Ensure community participation in matters relating to their welfare and where

situations are likely to transform in the near future as a result of improvement efforts.

� Prevent slum formation near water bodies by safeguarding them and proposing

recreational facilities around them.

� While proposing economic growth in the town it will be impertive to stall any

further growth of slums by adequate arrangements in housing and informal jobs in the

town.

� Employment, housing and infrastructure needs of existing slums should be

satisfied within a short time frame.

Slum improvement programmes in the town include:

A review of slum improvement programmes indicate that by improving basic infrastructure

and access to municipal services, there is a significant impact on the quality of life of

slum residents, both poor and non-poor. The Municipality is regularly taking up

gradation of infrastructures works in slum pockets from various programmes.


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Recently the municipality had taken all the slum area into IHSDP programme at the

estimated cost of Rs. 198.73 lakhs.

Swarna Jayanthi Sahari Roghar Yojana and Self Help Group: This program is to provide

employment to the urban poor through provision of self employment. There are about

1684 families living below the poverty line within this Municipal limit. 20 Self Help

Groups have been formed in the Town.

Self Employment Training: This is one of the main components of SJSRY and the

municipality has been conducting training programmes fro the below poverty line

population on options of self employment. This programme is decided by the

selection of beneficiaries who are finalised by the task force on the recommendation

of the community structure and the UPE cell. In this programme the council is not

involved because of the non involvement of the urban local body funds. A sum of Rs.

20,000 /- has been sanctioned as grant to this Municipality. Under this component 9

persons selected for learning Driving and are now under going training.

Wage Employment Programme: An amount of Rs. 47,000 /- has been received for this

scheme. Under this scheme one drainage work is taken up at the 19th ward Kattapulli

Street and the drainage work is completed.

DWCUA: This scheme is distinguished by special incentive extended to urban poor women

who decide to setup self employment ventures as a group as opposed to individual

effort. Groups of poor women shall take up and economic activity suited to their skill

training aptitude and local conditions. Besides generation of income their group shall

strive to empower urban poor women by making them independent as also providing

a facilitation atmosphere for self employment. A sum of Rs. 60,750 /- has been

sanctioned as grant to this Municipality in the above component, the above mentioned

amount has disbursed to 2 self help group.

Thrift and Credit Society: The development of women and children in urban area group sets

itself as a Thrift and Credit society, in addition to this other entrepreneurial activity.

The group is entitled to a lump sum grant of Rs. 27,000 /- has been sanctioned as

grant to this Municipality and it was resolved to sanction to 9 groups.

Community Structure: A sum of Rs. 24,000 /- has been sanctioned as grant to this

Municipality and it was resolved to conduct “Siddha Medical Camp”.

5.7 Strategies and Time Frame

As per National Slum Policy the objective to formulate strategy needs to be;

• To integrate slum settlements and communities residing within them into the urban

areas as a whole by creating awareness amongst the public and in Governance of

underlying principles that guide process of slum development and improvement and

the options that are available for bringing about the integration;

• To strengthen the legal and policy framework to facilitate the process of slum

development and improvement on a sustainable basis and,

• To establish a framework for involving all stakeholders for the efficient and smooth

implementation of policy objectives.

Table 5.7: Strategies and Time Frame

Sl. No. Strategy 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013


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1 Better Access Road

2 Storm Water Drains

3 Sewer Network

4 Sanitation facilities

5 Provision of Housing


CMA, GoTN 75


Chapter 6 HERITAGE

Heritage, an aspect neglected so far in urban plans, is now an integral part of city

development. The country with its ancient history is dotted with architectural, cultural

and archological remains that impart pride and are worthy of conservation. Tamil

Nadu, with its 2000 years of continuous cultural history, has a vast repertoire of

magnificent temples, hills, forests and wildlife, beaches, a coastline and typical

settlements abutting it. That these manmade and natural resources need to be

conserved is without a doubt. Thankfully, legislation that helps heritage conservation

to be an integral part of development plans, is now in place. The JNNURM has a

toolkit to ensure that this component has credence in its framework, has made it

doubly sure that its neglect is now passé.

6.1 Heritage Components

These include sites and buildings of archeological, historical, architectural, cultural, religious

and ecological value. The incorporated sites and buildings shall be those listed by the

Archeological Survey of India; State Archeological departments and their acts;

Ministry of Forest and Environment/ supporting state departments under this acts;

listing done under the State Town Planning Acts, and lists approved, supported and

mandated by Trusts city Heritage groups/ registered societies for Heritage/ other

concerned individuals. Since listing is a prerequisite to conservation and perceived as

an obstructive mechanism for realizing a property’s real estate worth, it has a hesitant

acceptance. Heritage properties are also mired in ownership issues/ multiple

tenancies, and are not easily subject to any Heritage based projects. Several Heritage

houses, monuments and sites have been lost as a result of weak intervention in policy,

objectives and serious action.

It is important to map the entire (a) immovable natural heritage sites and (b) immovable

manmade heritage sites.

Plate 6: Evidence of Town Historicity


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6.2 Heritage Sites in Vikramasingapuram and Vicinity

Vikramasingapuram is located within an environmentally scenic area with hills, forests,

waterfalls and cascades, ancient temples (associated with mythological events), wild

life and an abundance of nature’s bounty. It is a significant resource waiting to be

sensitively used before it is vandalised by vested interests. A movement to prevent

such an eventually is proposing it as a “Green Town” taking care that all development

follows ecologically sustainable patterns and is confined to its ecological footprint.

Branding a town as “Green” ensures that all buildings will follow the ‘Green Building

Council’ or similar requirements which hava a rating system, be of any scale or type

and are expected to see that the waste outputs of the consumed resouces are

recoverable on the same site if possible, low energy used, solar radiation used for

energy production, building climatically controlled using indigenous methods, city be

kept plastic free, waste segregated, rain water harvested… the listing can be done of

suitable measures. Eco-tourism is one such measure.

The town is expected to successfully use its heritage resource base and enlarge tourism

possibility by sharing opportunities with Ambasamudram for tourism based

employment which will be mutually beneficial. The priceless heritage in the area,

needs recognition in the second order heritage policy and development plans engage

in future on tourism growth including eco-tourism.

Eco tourism is defined as a purposeful travel to natural areas to understand the cultural and

natural history of environment, taking care not to alter the integrity of the eco system,

while producing economic opportunities that make conservation of natural resources

beneficial to local people. In short eco tourism can be conceptualized as ‘any tourism

program that is:

• Nature based

• Ecologically sustainable

• Where education and interpretation is a major component

• Where local populations benefit.

The noteworthy temple and natural heritage, in and near the town (besides the 9 local temples

which have their own customary ritual traditions) are:

(1) Papanasam Temple : 7 centuries old located on River Tambraparni; active

during Chithirai month), devoted to Lord Shiva

and Goddess Ulagambal.

(2) Agasthyar Koil : Associated with Sage Agasthya who is belived to have

Education & Interpretation

Economically beneficial to

locals

Ecologically

Sustainable

Nature Based

ECOTOURISM


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bathed in the waterfalls here is very scenic

surroundings.

(3) Kalyana Theertham : Mythological associations with the marriage of Shiva and

Goddess Parvati witnessed by Saga Agasthya.

(4) Sorimuthu Ayyanar

Kovil

: On way to Karyar dam it is under a trust (Zameen

Singampatti Samasthanam) and the festival of

Adi-Amavasai is celebrated here.

(5) Panatheertham : A large waterfall as backdrop to the Karyar Dam is very

attractive spot.

(6)

Mundandurai wild life

sanctuary

: A tiger sanctuary in the afforested hills on way to upper

dam from Papanasam is popular with tourists and

their arrivals upto 2007 were numbered 15,000-

20,000.

(7) Town Waterbodies : 16 tanks, river Tambraparmi and the canal.

(8) The Heritage Wealth

in Tirunuleveli

District

: The heritage wealth at Tirunelveli, Tenkasi,

Ambasamudram Manapad, Coutallam,

Monimuthar, hydel power project paponasam,

Kallidaikurichi, Koonthakulam bird Sanctuary

and several other placess of interest quality for

improvement under a master plan for heritage

areas in Tirunelveli district.

6.3 Heritage Conservation

Temple precincts need to be demarcated under a heritage renewal plan for improvement and

conservation. Besides these noted sites, quite a few water bodies exist within and near

the town. The river is also a prominent water body and several canals in the area help

irrigate paddy fields.

The district has 5 rivers crossing it (Tambraparni, Karuppanathi, Chittar, Servalar,

Manimuthar); 9 Tanks and reservoirs (Manimuthar, Karuppanathi, Ramanathi,

Gatana, Papanasam, Kodama tank, Vijanarayar, Periyakulam, Tenkasi); 14 canals of

varying lengths (N.Koodamelagian, Nathiyni, Kannadian, Kodayan, Palayam,

Tirunelveli, Tenkasi, Vadakkd, Manimuthat, Main Gatana, Arasapattu, Vadakuruvai

pattu, Gatana reservoir, Radhapuram) Some of these fall within the taluka, town or

nearby areas.

These water bodies have to be safeguarded from untreated water being discharges into them,

besides ensuring sustainable sources of water supply highly valued for tourism

growth.

Water bodies have the option to introduce boating and other recreational activities as resorts

etc to activate some of the scenic sites.

Most temples could do with improvement works for pilgrims and visitors and could contain

within their premise, a small information kiosk, historic/records centre, picture

post cards, “know your temples”, a research and documentation centre, a

training school for understanding religious texts, their recording studios,

accompanying musical verses, musical instruments, the making of traditional

prasadams, an interpretation centre for allowing visitors a glimpse into

traditions and culture, building construction manuals of traditional wisdom now

available only to shilpakars and sthapatis etc. A whole new service sector industry

for job creation could build around temples, historic places, natural sites etc including


CMA, GoTN 78


rural tourism/exotic location & camping sites which are well publicized on web

sites of Tourism department, so that they are marketed well and have drawing

power.


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6.4 State Interventions

There are several agencies/ institution of the state incharge of heritage aspects, as,

Government Museums; Archeology department; Deptt. of archives and historical

research; Governmental Oriental Manuscript Library; a directorate of art and

culture; regional cultural centres; government music colleges and music schools;

government college of architecture and sculpture; Tamil Nadu archieves; the TN Iyal Isa; Nadaga Mandram; the TM Ovia Nunkalai Kuzhu. In various ways they

are required to keep alive and grow in the realm of fine arts, music, sculpture,

architecture, dance and other forms of cultural expression. The department of

government museums is entrusted the function of restoring old heritage buildings.

There are a number of museum on the anvil, the Rock art gallery, consolidation and

modernization of 8 Archeological sites, conserving monuments and temples etc.

Tirunelveli district and the heritage sites within it should be earmarked for funds and

development activities in highly professional ways to give boost to tourism aiming to

generate jobs and incomes.

The Tourism and Culture department are aware of the economic benefits of Tourism and

consider that domestic tourists show keen interest in beaches, waterfalls, temples,

temple festivals etc. preferring a weekend for the purpose; the national tourist spends

around a week by combining two weekends whilst the foreign tourists are interested

in exploring historical monuments and heritage sites and can spend larger (15-30

days) time with almost a week devoted to Tamil Nadu.

Table 6.1: Tourist Arrivals in Tamil Nadu

YEAR DOMESTIC FOREIGN TOTAL (IN

LAKHS)

2002 246.61 8.05 254.66

2003 270.59 9.02 279.61

2004 300.77 10.58 311.35

2005 323.39 11.79 335.18

2006 392.14 13.35 405.50

Source: Department of Tourism, Tamil Nadu 2007.

Evidently the growth is good but can be improved to cover other less explored areas of Tamil

Nadu, for the various types of tourism that can be on offer, as, Leisure Tourism;

Pilgrim Tourism; Heritage Tourism; Adventure-Cruise-Rural Tourism etc.; Again, in the plans reflected by them there is no allocation of funds for the

Tirunelveli region, though Contallam and Tirunelveli do figure on their list of

Heritage Towns.

6.5 Issues and Concerns

Heritage conservation is a total concept and particularly for this town, it is being seen as a

driving force within a matrix of interconnected drivers explained earlier in the SWOT

analysis. Thus it is intended to have significant impact and would require larger

resource allocations for addressing the physical, social, economic, environmental and

cultural factors integrated into urban development and planning, and thereby release

vast energy while revitalizing the heritage town and its linked issues of developing

traditional skills.


CMA, GoTN 80


• Need to develop natural areas for their scenic worth into eco tourism development

activities.

• Integrate Leisure – Pilgrim- Heritage Tourism with urban development by twinning

the two towns Ambasamudram and Vikramasingapuram.

• Involve community into conservation of heritage areas.

• Involve industry as partners to Tourism growth.

• Special care to safeguard natural water bodies and develop recreational zones.

• Need for introducing one major project in the vicinity as a high end Tourist

destination, (complete with unique resorts, golf course, crafts centre, convention

centre) to trigger mega investment into Tourism sector in the region.

• Making improvements to local temples, sites and areas of heritage importance,

instituting a “Heritage Trail” for increasing visitor exposure to smaller heritage areas

often obscured by the larger temple sites, and also serve to make improvements in the

livelihoods of several poor communities with active support from city, industry and

temple authorities. This will help serve addressing poverty through enhancing local

economic performance.


CMA, GoTN 81


Chapter 7 URBAN ENVIRONMENT

7.1 Broad Environmental Concerns

Environment, in its broadest sense, is a sum of the social, physical or chemical factors

surrounding man. Most urban environmental concerns causing harm to the existence

of communities centre around:

• High population densities and the accompanying pressure on resources, structural

condition of towns/ cities, new areas taken up for habitation etc.

• Growth of slums and the associated strains on sanitation, health, housing etc.

• Gap between demand and supply of water and access to safe drinking water.

• Sanitation, especially for underground sewerage facilities and its total absence in

many towns (though schemes such as the National River Conservation Plan are in the

process and have put into operation underground sewerage systems for towns located

along the Cauvery as well as for Tirunlveli Corporation in the district )

• Underground Storm Water drainage.

• Solid Waste Disposal is particularly a concern due to the range of associated

activities, as, collection, transportation and refuse disposal under existing

unsatisfactory conditions. Most Municipalities have been directed to prepare Action

Plans for this activity.

• Industrial pollution causing air, land and water pollution.

• Vehicular emission and congestion, produced by a high density of motor vehicles

per sq. km. which is getting enlarged with each passing year and releasing toxic air

pollutants into the atmosphere.

7.2 Situation in Vikramasingapuram

Vikramsigpuram does not have any concentration of industries. The nearby Modern Coats has

modernized and has little impact on the town. Absence of industries, presence of

water bodies and open green areas adds positively to the towns environmental quality.

Of some concern is the poorly managed garbage disposal, presence of slums, low

lying areas and places where growing ground water extraction.

Control of pollution is resorted to by categorising industries as Red, Orange or Green

depending on their pollution markers. No industry can be set up within 1 km from the

embankment of rivers, streams, dams etc.

7.2.1 Air Quality

Table 7.1: Ambient Air Quality

PARAMETERS PERMISSIBLE EXITING

SPM 100 622

SOZ 30 20

NOX 30 13

RSPM 75 Not available

SPM 100 622


There is no air quality monitoring stations. But suspension due to earthen roads is why SPM

level is high.


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7.2.2 Noise

Table 7.2 Norms for Noise Pollution

AREA CATEGORY CODE DAY TIME NIGHT TIME

Industries 75 70

Commercial 65 55

Residential 55 45

Silence Zone 50 40

Source: CPCB Norms

7.2.3 Water Quality

Table 7.3 Water Quality in Town

PARAMETERS PERMISSIBLE EXISTING STATUS IN

TOWN

PH 6.5-8.5 7.4

Nitrates/ Nitrites 4.5 1.27

Dissolved Oxygen(DO) 8(Fresh water) 5.27

Chemical Oxygen Demand

(COD)

300-600 7


There is low DO; oxygen deficiency can be attributed to organic matter being dumped into

the canal from where surface water is drawn.

7.2.4 Flora and Fauna

The Kalakkadu and Mundanathari Sanctuaries contain wild life in their 233 sq. km. area

reserve including foothills of the Western Ghats and its adjoining areas.

The Flora constitutes forests of tropical wet evergreen to tropical dry deciduous and thorny

forests on the lower hills.

Wild life consists of species of Lion tailed macaue, Nilgiri thar, Sambars, sloth bear, boars,

elephants, tigers, flying squirrel, panther, wild dog, and pangolin eat, besides the

birds and reptiles.

The Mundanthari Sanctuary, 567 sq. km, does not have elephants and the gaur, and its forest

also consists of dry deciduous to tropical wet evergreen, with some patches of reeds.

7.2.5 Disaster Proneness

Natural disasters take a toll on life, property, infrastructure, and disruptance to social and

economic well being. Vikramasingapuram may face droughts, floods or earthquake

for which guidelines issued may be referred.

Floods need to be averted by specifically improving the storm water drainage system as well

as improving low lying areas in the town.


CMA, GoTN 83


Suggestion:

Environment Related:

• Constant monitoring of environment performance.

• Creating Environmental Upgrading Grants through creation of environmental

trusts.

• Enforcing peak hour traffic constraint

• Fostering improvements in Agriculture, horticulture, fisheries while minimizing

environmental conflicts.

• Exercising control over mineral developments.

• Undertaking surveys of degraded landscapes and potential protected areas.

• Ensuring there is no nuisance of smell and noise.

• Protecting water catchments areas.

• Designating sites for improved management of waste generation and disposal.

• Inventorising disused quarries, establishing a Reclamation Fund (using taxes on

mineral production).

• Providing incentives for relocating polluting industries.

• Incentivising low energy, low water use practices, green buildings, plus use of solar

cookers, solar panels etc.

• Effectively managing solid waste by inbuilding capacities of local bodies.

• Formulating a set of “good practices guidelines”

Conservation Related:

• Designating Urban Conservation areas where policies for environmental upgrading

are applied.

• Upgrading Tourism areas (country parks, network of picnic areas, Heritage trails)

• Designating rural conservation areas to cover non urban areas

• Ensuring new developments permitted in rural areas enhances areas of scenic value.

• Managing wild life sanctuaries/ designating Heritage sites.

• Encouraging tree plantation @ 1 tree per unit of population in the town, and also

Inventorising them.

• Ensuring water reservoirs are underground. If not, ensuring they blend with the

landscape.

• Developing and implementing a policy for wildlife protection.

• Enforce soil conservation measures.

• Improving access to disabled on footpath, buildings, facilities and even transport.


CMA, GoTN 84


Chapter 8 URBAN GOVERNANCE AND URBAN REFORMS

The institution of Municipal governance has been in existence in Tamil Nadu since long

(District Municipalities Act. 1886). The Twelfth Schedule (73rd

and 74th Amendment)

Act. 1992 has restated the relation of the state to the ULB in matters of their

executive functions, taxation arrangements, revenue sharing with state, and

representation of women and weaker section of society.

8.1 Organisational Structure

Post 1992 and the amendment in the Twelfth Schedule (73rd

and 74th Amendment) Act,

changes were brought in the Municipal functioning to clarify relation of state to ULB

for the functions of taxation arrangement and revenue sharing as well as affording

adequate representation of weaker section in power sharing. A host of new

arrangements ensured that the ULB be professionally equipped to handle

development and governance issues, and a listing of the 18 functions that were

required to be operated by them.

Vikramasingapuram Municipality was upgraded in 2004 as Grade-III Municipality from a

selection grade Town Panchayat regulated by the TN District Municipal Act,

1920. The town has 21 wards with adequate representation of women and SC/ST

persons.

The Act specifies three types of Municipalities

(a) Nagar and Town Panchayat,

(b) Municipal Councils for smaller urban areas and

(c) Municipal Corporations for larger urban areas.

The set up of ULB comprises of the Administrative Wing and the Elected Wing, the latter

consisting of elected councillors from different wards of the city, and headed by a

Chairman. The Executive Wing is headed by the Executive Officer helps in the

functioning of the ULB by supporting the elected wing in the decision making

process.


CMA, GoTN 85


Fig. 8.1: Exisiting Organisational Structure


Against the total of 77 posts, 62 are in place. Most of the posts are occupied, barring 15 lower

level posts. The proportionate divisions of higher to lower jobs are as

Manager : 1

Assistance to Top job : 8

Lower skilled jobs : 28

Lowest unskilled jobs : 40

Though not very vertical in structure, the lower level jobs tend towards a larger base due to

several manually performed operations.

Chairman ULB Executive Officer

Vice Chairman

Accounts &

Revenue

Manager, Jr. Asst., Office

Assistants, Watchman

Asst. Head Clerks

Electrician

Metre Reader

Health

Department

Sanitary Inspectors

Water Supply

Department

21 Councillors

Sanitary workers

Conservancy staff

Pump Fitter

Fitters

HP Operators

Pipeline Inspectors

Cleaners, Watchman

General

Administration,

Bill collectors


CMA, GoTN 86


8.2 Functional Wings

(a) Elected Wing

The elected wing of the Municipality consists of 21 councilors from each of the 21 wards one

of them elected as Chairman. Councilors are responsible for raising development

issues and concerns of their respective wards. The elected wing provides an overall

direction to the Municipality in performing its various functions, through a set of

committees constituted for different purposes. There is no wards committee in the

local body.

(b) Executive Wing

The executive/administrative wing is responsible for day to day operations of the

Municipality, and is headed by the executive officer. The Executive Officer is the

administrative head of the Municipality and is supported mainly by three main

departments which include General Administration, Health and Engineering. The

usual roles and responsibilities of the various departments are as mentioned below:

Table 8.1: Roles and Responsibilities of Various Departments

S. DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBILITIES

1 General Administration,

Revenue and Accounts

This includes responsibility of taxation, accounts and

records. It deals with bill raising, collection

of property tax, deals with accounts, debit

etc. Conserves past records of properties,

staff etc.

2 Water Supply Department Engineering works for water supply, also street lights,

roads, drains etc.

3 Health and Sanitation It deals in implementation of government sponsored

health programmes, Solid Waste

Management, Street sweeping and clearing of

drains etc.

Source: IPE Assessment

8.3 Line Agencies

Several line agencies support ULB functions, these are:

(1) TWAD Board Creating water and sewerage infrastructure, handing over completed

projects to ULB for O&M purposes.

(2) TCPD Town Planning Functions. Preparing Master/ Development Plans.

Implementation by ULBs. Process to be duly revised due to

CDP preparation.

(3) PWD Roads and

Highway

s

State Highways, District and Other main metalled roads. Municipal

roads with ULBs.


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(4) TNPCB Environmental protection and pollution control functions.

Enforcement of rules.

(5) TNSCB Improvement schemes for notified slums for loans from HUDCO and

GOI, GoTN. Process revised with JnNURM. UIDSSMT

promoted IHSDP and BSUP


CMA, GoTN 88


8.4 Reforms for ULB under UIDSSMT

Some mandatory reforms are foreseen to enable efficient ULB management and delivering

reliable services, which entails restructuring reorganization so that to routine /other

functions are performed in a streamlined way, speedily and with transparency. The

mandated reforms are:

• Adopting Modern Accounting procedures (double entry accrual based)

• Introducing e-governance with IT applications of GIS and MIS for services

provided by the ULB

• Property tax reforms, using GIS, and improving collection efficiency to 85

percent in next 7 years.

• Levying user charges to recover O & M costs fully within next 7 years.

• Introducing budgetary provisions for the urban poor.

• Providing housing, basic services, secure tenure and other social services by the

Government to the urban poor.

The optional reforms revolve around:

• Speeding and revising approval process for building activity.

• Simplifying process for conversion of land to Urban Land uses.

• Introducing property tax certification.

• Earmarking 25 percent land to EWS/LIG and arranging cross subsidy for their living.

• Introduce water harvesting.

• Use recycled water.

• Reduce administrative costs by cost cutting measures on non essential staff

• Encourage PPP.

8.5 Recommended Organisational Structure

Overseeing the list of functions, it is observed that the functions relating to urban planning,

land use, regulating the construction of building, are not yet being performed by the

municipal authority. Very little is being done by the municipalities in relation to basic

service to urban poor.

The present organizational structure of municipal authority is designed only to meet the

present needs and is not adequate to perform all the functions envisaged in the 12th

Schedule of the Constitution.

The present organizational structure represents a lean administrative staff where a further

possibility of outsourcing activities to the private sector can be envisaged in the solid

waste management side and thereby cut costs in a high cost activity if performed

internally.

Reforms will be needed in governance by

• Clearing identifying the tasks and sub tasks that Vikramasingapuram is required to

perform

• An information module which is accessible electronically and otherwise to the

citizens of the town as an interface between them and the Municipality

• It is prudent to agglomerate ULBs for infrastructure requirements water, sewerage,

solid waste management, transportation and other infrastructure so as to create scale

and facilitate development in a holistic way. There should be more external oriented

rather than inward based.


CMA, GoTN 89


• There should be forums for continuing dialogue between people and councilors on a

regular periodic basis, preferably as calendar events which should be well publicized.

The Municipality needs to undertake more functions under the 74th CAA for which the

organizational structure must modify and accommodate. A suggested structure is

provided in Table 8.2

• The structure envisages 6 functional heads which are coded as

Code 1: GENERAL ADMINISTRATION

Code 2: ENGINEERING & PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURE

Code 3: SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE

Code 4: POVERTY SLUMS & HOUSING

Code 5: URBAN PLANNING, DESING AND HERITAGE

Code 6: BUDGET AND ACCOUNTS

• These functional heads are further split into SEGMENTED FUNCTIONAL CODES

as

Eg.: 1A & 1B; 2A to 2 F; 3A to 3B; 4A to 4 F; 5A to 5B; 6A to 6C. (For details see Table

8.2)

• Under each Segmented functional code are the delivery TASKS. (For details see

Table 8.2)

Table 8.2: Proposed Organization Structure for Vikramsingapuram

CODE FUNCTIONAL HEAD SUB

C

O

DE

WINGS/ TASKS

1A General Administration matters

1A.1 Establishment matters

1A.2 Personal policy, Career growth, Training

1A.3

Appointments, Promotions, vigilance

matters

1B IT

1B.1 IT Networking

1B.2 IT support, IT training

1B.3 Website management

1B.4 Trouble shooting, general maintenance

1B.5 Archival,

1 Central Administration

1B.6 IT upgrade

2A Water Supply

2A.1 Interal network design

2A.2 O&M Asset management

2A.3 Water testing

2A.4 Complaints redressal

2A.5 Repair and renewal

2A.6 Any other

2B Sewerage

2B.1 Interal network design

2B.2 O&M Asset management

2B.3 Waste water treatment & disposal

2B.4 Waste water recycling

2B.5 Testing

2 Engineering

2B.6 Regulating discharge


CMA, GoTN 90



C

O

DE

WINGS/ TASKS

2B.7 Composting / gasplant / any other

2C Roads and Drains

2C.1 Design and civil works for roads and drains

2C.2 Storm water disposal

2C.3 Maintenance of roads / drains

2C.4 Road furniture

2C.5

Road junctions, sidewalks, markings and

signage

2C.6 Bus bays

2C.7 Traffic related trouble shooting

2C.8 Parking lots, selecting sites

2D Street lighting

2D.1 Procurement

2D.2 Design & laying of UG cables

2D.3 O&M Asset management

2D.4 Sub-station / others

2E Parks / playgrounds

2E.1 TOI lots

2E.2 Parks and plagrounds

2E.3 Recreational sites

2E.4

Horticulture, water bodies, water

catchment area protection

2E.5 Roadside plantation and avenues

2E.6 Urban vegetable / fruit gardens

2E.7 Forest protection

2E.8 Wet area conservation

2E.9 Quarry sites improvement / renewal

2E.10 Degraded areas improvement

2E.11 Nurseries, fisheries, zoos, agro area, other

2E.12 Ecological safeguards

2F Solid Waste Management

2F.1 Primary collecation

2F.2 Storage and collection

2F.3 Disposal site

2F.4

Engineered landfill / O&M management

construction

2F.5 Vehicle asset management

2F.6

Recycling, composting, segregating, on site

recycling, on site composting,

community group

ogranisation SHGS, waste

involvement, NGOs

2F.7 Any other

3A Education 3 Social Infrastructure

3A.1

Monitoring / site selection for primary,

secondary,

Higher secondary


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C

O

DE

WINGS/ TASKS

3A.2 Colleges / Institutions

3A.3 Any other

3B Health

3B.1

Monitoring / site selection for establishing

Hospitals/ Clinics /Nursing homes

3B.2 Ensuring Hazard free environments

3B.3 Any other

4A In situ slum improvement

4B Slum relocating / replanning

4C Poor Services Provision

4D Livelihoods and Community,

4E

Poverty assessment, Program, design,

executing

monitoring, evaluation

4 Poverty, Slums and

Housing

4F General Planning

5A

Urban plan making, Environmental

considerations

5A.1

Plan monitoring, regulation, encrochment

prevention

5A.2

Ward area plans, ward area need

assessment ,

monitoring

5B Building and Design

5B.1 Building rules, structural safety, Green

building,

guidelines, architectural elements

and componets,

vernacular architecture guidelines,

environment

guidelines

5B.2

Plan enforcements, Building law

enforcement

5B.3 Conservation guidelines and enforcement

5 Urban Planning Design

and Heritage

5B.4 Heritage section,

Heritage improvement

Heritage conservation and

regeneration

Heritage based promotional

activities

Heritage-tourism promotional

activities

Marketing section

6A Taxation and Revenue ralated activities

6B Finance and accounts related activities

6 Budget and Accounts

6C Any other

8.6

8.7 Suggestions

• Speeding up e-governance in the taluk and improving the tax collection system.


CMA, GoTN 92


• Capacity building to the ULB staff on performance efficiency and benchmarking it

with use of performance indicators.

• It is feasible that ward level plans be prepared for effective community participation.

• Local governance strengthening is important, especially having a separate tax

domain.

• Community participation as an ongoing process, should be facilitated by the ULB as

a periodic calendar event, with a monitoring cell in place to ensure that participation

results in community supported actions (It is not necessary to always have laws to tell

people how to do what). As city scales enlarge, participation may be segmented to go

upto neighborhood level.

• Rent control Laws, if any, have to be reviewed.

• Water supply, user charges, leaking systems, billing systems, illegal connections,

discretionary supply are matters where reforms have to be ensured, so that O & M

costs are recoverable.

• Documenting and disclosing published information by the ULB on decisions taken,

including financial statements, projects details and other information of common

interest to the citizens, will ensure the accountability of ULB.

• Most municipalities have proportionately high wage bills and pension payouts; the

reforms underway suggest that 35% of revenue expenditure only should go to salary

bills. This entails cost cutting on wages for unnecessary personnel and reducing the

number of employees.

• New Municipal Accounting systems have already been suggested elsewhere.

• Making room for PPP signifies sharing of risks, opportunities, responsibilities and

rewards and paves the way for a smoother and more satisfactory development culture.


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Chapter 9 MUNICIPAL FINANCE 9.1 Introduction

Vikramasingapuram municipality used to maintain accounts on a single entry cash basis till

the financial year 2001-02. The ULB was upgraded from Town Panchayat to Grade

III in the financial year 2004. In the financial year 2002-03 & 2003-04, the ULB

maintained accounts as per Town Panchayat Accounting Manual. i.e. Double entry

accrual based accounting (non-fund based).

The ULB is supposed to maintain Fund Based double entry accrual accounting as per Tamil

Nadu Municipal Accounting Manual from FY 2004-05. However, this switchover has

not been initiated. Under the present system the ULB prepares Income & Expenditure

and Balance sheet at the financial year end. The account of this ULB has been audited

up to FY 2006-07.

9.2 Revenue Account

The revenue account comprises of recurring items of receipts (taxes, fees, grants etc.) and

payment account essentially transactions related to the ULBs operations. The table

below summarizes the status of the ULBs revenue account.

Table 9.1: Revenue Account (in lakhs)

FY03 FY04 FY05 FY06

Revenue Income 134.57 157.67 184.93 222.50

Revenue Expenditure 150.56 185.68 219.16 235.43

Surplus/Deficit -15.98 -28.01 -34.23 -12.93


Fig 9.1 Trends in Revenue Income and Expenditure

The CAGR for the Revenue Income is 18.25 percent while the CAGR for Revenue

Expenditure 16.07 percent. The revenue income and expenditure have shown an

increasing trend. The Municipality has shown a deficit during the years taken into

consideration, which kept on fluctuating from 2003 to 2006, however was lowest in

2005.


CMA, GoTN 94


9.2.1 Revenue Receipts / Income

Receipts under this head include taxes, fees, grants, income from properties and special

services.

i. Taxes - own sources – This is includes property tax and professional tax and other

taxes collected by the Municipality. In 2006, the tax receipts accounted for Rs.25.9

Lakhs.

ii. Taxes - Assigned Revenue - Taxes collected by other agencies include entertainment

tax, duty on transfer of property, taxes on carts and animals etc this accounted for Rs.

10.21 lakhs in 2006.

iii. Non-tax Revenue - This head includes Income from Fees, Properties, Special

services & Miscellaneous. This head amounts to Rs.63.56lakhs in the year 2006.

iv. Grants & Contributions – The ULB could attract the Grants only from the Financial

Year 2006. There was no grants and contributions in years under considerations.

Table 9.2: Revenue Receipts, Vikramasingapuram (Rs. In Lakhs)

S. NO. PARTICULAR FY03 FY04 FY05 FY06

Rs. in lakhs

1 Property Tax 15.33 15.96 16.17 16.84

2 Other Taxes 5.98 6.97 7.97 9.06

3 Service Charges & Fees 43.52 54.38 99.90 63.56

4 Sale & Hire Charges 0.15 0.00 0.15 0.45

5 Other Income 8.10 7.19 5.85 7.36

6 Assigned Revenue 17.78 12.94 12.93 10.21

7 Devolution Fund 43.72 60.23 41.95 115.03

8 Grants & Contributions 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Total 134.57 157.67 184.93 222.50


Note: The excess expenditure over income has not been considered

Table 9.3 Revenue Receipts as Percentages of Total Revenue Receipts (value in %)

S. NO. PARTICULARS FY03 FY04 FY05 FY06

1 Property Tax 11.39 10.12 8.74 7.57

2 Other Taxes 4.45 4.42 4.31 4.07

3 Service Charges & Fees 32.34 34.49 54.02 28.56

4 Sale & Hire Charges 0.11 0.00 0.08 0.20

5 Other Income 6.02 4.56 3.16 3.31

6 Assigned Revenue 13.21 8.21 6.99 4.59

7 Devolution Fund 32.49 38.20 22.69 51.70

8 Grants & Contributions 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00



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Fig 9.2 Source wise Revenue Income (%)

• The amount under most of the heads is growing however their share to the

revenue receipts in the respective years is varying. Revenue receipts have increased

from Rs.134.57 lakhs in 2002-03 to Rs.222.50 lakhs in 2005-06. It has shown

increasing growth trend over past 4 years.

• Property Tax is showing a varying trend over the years, while the other taxes

have shown a promising upward trend.

• The devolution funds occupy a significant share of the revenue income with the

highest in FY06.

Fig 9.3 Average Share of Revenue Income (%)


CMA, GoTN 96


The overall average of the major sources of income is as presented above. Devolution Funds

are the largest source of income, with an average share of 37 percent to total revenue

and it is followed by service charges and fees which is around 32 percent.

9.2.2 Revenue Expenditure

Vikramasingapuram municipality uses the resources for general administration, operation and

maintenance of services and public works. Revenue expenditure during FY03 was Rs.

150.56 lakhs and in FY07 it accounts to Rs. 235.43 lakhs.

i. Personnel Cost - This constitutes one of the major components of expenditure. It has

increased from Rs. 60.28 lakhs in 2002-03 to Rs. 7.24 in 2005-05.

ii. Operating Expenses - This includes the O&M of core services and it accounts to Rs

54.20 lakhs in 2005-06. The O & M expense has shown an oscillating trend over the

years.

iii. Finance Expenses - This is an important component and amounts to Rs. 32.06 lakhs

money in 2006-07.

Table 9.4: Break – Up of Revenue Expenditure (Rs. In Lakhs)


1 Personnel Cost 60.28 61.74 70.44 77.24

2 Operating Expenses 29.38 59.45 56.44 54.20

3 Programme Expenses 0.01 0.00 0.28 0.39

4 Administration expenses 28.15 11.15 14.78 21.62

5 Finance expenses 2.40 5.10 28.86 32.06

6 Depreciation 30.35 48.25 48.37 49.91

Total 150.56 185.68 219.16 235.43


Table 9.5 Revenue Expenditure as Percentage of Total Revenue Expenses (value in %)


1 Personnel Cost 40.04 33.25 32.14 32.81

2 Operating Expenses 19.51 32.02 25.75 23.02

3 Programme Expenses 0.00 0.00 0.13 0.17

4 Administration expenses 18.70 6.00 6.74 9.18


6 Depreciation 20.16 25.98 22.07 21.20

Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00



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Fig 9.4 Component wise share of Revenue Expenditure (%)

As seen from the graph above, personnel cost shares a significant portion of the revenue

expenditure, followed by depreciation and operating expenses.

Fig 9.5: Average Share of Revenue Expenses (%)

As seen from the graph, on the expenditure side the ULB spends almost 34.56 percent on

personnel costs and a significant 22.35 percent on depreciation, followed by operating

expenses with about 25.08 percent.

9.2.3 Trend of Income & Expenditure – Vikramasingapuram Municipality

Income increased at an average of 18.80% over past few years on the other hand expenses

have increased at an average of 16.26% over the years. All the revenue income heads

shows a positive trend except assigned revenue. Income & Expenditure trend of the

municipality is shown in the following table and figure.


CMA, GoTN 98


Table 9.6: Growth Rate in Revenue Income and Expenditure (%)

S. NO. INCOME FY04 FY05 FY06 AVERAGE

1 Property Tax 4.15 1.30 4.13 2.72

2 Other Taxes 16.45 14.44 13.68 14.06

3 Service Charges & Fees 24.95 83.70 -36.38 23.66

4 Sale & Hire Charges -100.00 188.52

5 Other Income -11.23 -18.59 25.72 3.56

6 Assigned Revenue -27.20 -0.07 -21.04 -10.55

7 Devolution Fund 37.77 -30.35 174.20 71.93

8 Grants & Contributions

Total 17.16 17.29 20.32 18.80

S. No. Expenditure FY04 FY05 FY06 Average

1 Personnel Cost 2.42 14.09 9.66 8.73

2 Operating Expenses 102.36 -5.06 -3.98 31.11

3 Programme Expenses -100.00 #DIV/0! 41.34 #DIV/0!

4 Administration expenses -60.39 32.55 46.31 6.16


6 Depreciation 58.97 0.26 3.19 20.81

Total 23.33 18.03 7.43 16.26

Sorce: Vikramasingapuram Municipality

Fig 9.6 Growth Rate in Revenue Income and Expenditure

9.3 Demand Collection Balance Scenario

It is seen from the Income and Expenditure statement that the one of the major source of

income for the municipality is through the taxes. The DCB of major sources of

incomes are from:


CMA, GoTN 99


(i) Property Taxes (ii) Professional Taxes and (iii) Water Taxes.

9.3.1 DCB for Property Tax

In FY06, the total demand for property tax (including arrears and current) stood at Rs.25.12

lakhs of which Rs.16.35lakhs has been collected. The overall collection performance

was 65% and, on an average around 68% of property tax has been collected yearly.

Coming to arrears and current demand collection, 11% and 89% has been collected

on an average in last five years. The arrears and current demand in 2005-06 was

Rs.8.28lakhs and Rs.16.84 lakhs respectively, out of which Rs. 2.19lakhs and

Rs.16.35lakhs has been collected.

Table 9.7. Demand Collection Balance for Property Tax (Rs. In Lakhs)

S. NO. PARTICULARS 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06

Rs. In lakhs

A. Demand

1. Arrears 4.76 5.37 6.04 8.28

2. Current 15.30 15.60 16.17 16.84

3. Total 20.06 20.97 22.21 25.12

B. Collection

1. Arrears 0.22 0.11 0.62 2.19

2. Current 14.30 14.73 13.31 14.16

3. Total 14.52 14.85 13.93 16.35

D. Collection Analysis

Arrears (%) 5% 2% 10% 26%

Current (%) 93% 94% 82% 84%

Total (%) 72% 71% 63% 65%



CMA, GoTN 100


Fig 9.7 Collection Efficiency for Property Tax (%)

9.3.2 DCB for Profession Tax

Table 9.8. DCB for Professional Tax of (Rs. in Lakhs)

S. NO. PARTICULARS 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06

Rs. In lakhs

A. Demand

1. Arrears 0.28 0.14 0.03 0.00

2. Current 5.98 6.97 7.97 9.06

3. Total 6.26 7.11 8.01 9.06

B. Collection

1. Arrears 0.28 0.19 0.03 0.00

2. Current 5.84 6.94 7.97 9.06

3. Total 6.12 7.12 8.01 9.06

C. Collection Analysis

1. Arrears (%) 100% 136% 100%

2. Current (%) 98% 100% 100% 100%

Total 98% 100% 100% 100%


The arrear demand in 2005-06 was Rs.0.00 lakhs, while the current demand was Rs.9.06

lakhs and the same has been collected indicating 100% efficiency. On an average, the

overall collection performance including both arrears and current demand is 100%.

Fig 9.8: Collection Efficiency for Professional Tax (%)

9.3.3 DCB for Water Charges

The total demand in 2005-06 was Rs.101.00 lakhs and only Rs.34.46 lakhs have been

collected. The collection performance was at 43% and 26% for arrears and current

demand respectively.


CMA, GoTN 101


Table 9.9. DCB of Water Charges (Rs in lakhs)

WATER CHARGES 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06

A. Demand

1. Arrears 0.00 0.00 22.37 48.50

2. Current 30.59 46.35 46.80 52.50

3. Total 30.60 46.36 69.17 101.00

B. Collection

1. Arrears 0.00 0.00 1.75 20.68

2. Current 30.59 23.99 18.91 13.78

3. Total 30.59 23.99 20.66 34.46

C. Collection Analysis

1. Arrears (%) 0% 0% 8% 43%

2. Current (%) 100% 52% 40% 26%

100% 52% 30% 34%


Fig 9.9 Collection Efficiency for Water Charges (%)

9.4 Ratio Analysis (OR)

Ratio of revenue expenditure to revenue income has been mentioned below.

FY 03 –1.12

FY 04 – 1.18

FY 05 – 1.19

FY 06 – 1.06

The OR for all financial year, under consideration, was more than 1, indicating instability in

the efficiency of revenue management, or, a high dependency on state devolved funds

for revenue income.


CMA, GoTN 102


Chapter 10 Development of Perspective and Vision of the city

10.1 Spatial Perspective For Vikramasingapuram 2041

A comprehensive view of Vikramasingapuram was derived and several fronts explored for

preparing a draft vision for the ULB. These included a SWOT analysis, stakeholders

meeting, interviewing citizens, officials and key stakeholders, and consolidating their

views, as well as a detailed analytical assessment of the state and district potential to

contribute to the USB’s growth. On the basis of these datasets, a spatial perspective

plan for Vikramasingapuram 2041 was prepared (see Map 9) The plan, indicative of

the new focal developments and its sustaining infrastructure, on approval, with or

without adjustments, would help generate a City Development Plan (CDP) along with

a five year project profile in a draft suggestive form, as incorporated later in this

chapter.

To mandate the CDP into an implementable document would need preparation of schemes

and ward plans. for actualizing listed projects and covering deficient development in

the city. This would require fast tracking approval by the ULB/ State for a healthy

development process.

10.2 Sector Specific Objectives and Projects

(i) A Spatial Growth

The neighbouring ULBs in close proximity to each other and almost contiguous formed the

basis to validate road infrastructure and bypass construction so that the economy is

provided an impetus in the form of planned development hubs in peri-urban sites of

2-3 contiguous ULBs. These are expected to be on ecological principles respecting

the existing environmental profiles (slopes/ topography/ catchments/ forest data) as

well as regulations determined for GREEN TOWNS wherein the new development

zones planned integrate with the existing landscapes of hills and foothills.

This co-sharing is extended to also siting regional landfills for SWM, demarcating water

supply zones regionally as well as road infrastructure which will help economic

growth.

(ii) Strategies

• Use tourism for improving incomes in the service sector by promoting TEMPLE

HERITAGE AND OTHER NATURAL AREAS.

• Use development modes and road bypass to site tourist infrastructure.

• Develop local initiatives and partnerships for tourism projects for their marketing,

transportation, accommodation and services.

• Campaign for GREEN PRACTICES.

• Develop local and regional skills, talent and entrepreneurship.

• Develop INSTITUTIONAL ZONES integrated within ECOPARKS and GREEN

SETTINGS

• Make selective use of forests and mineral resources for value added products which

are produced in MINI-ENTERPRISE ZONES. (In small village like communities

which have integrated housing – production – warehousing and commerce –

recreation – cohesive neighbourhoods) within natural surroundings.

• Re-densify existing town with infill development also improve physical – social

infrastructure and create aesthetic environment for enhancing Quality of Life (QOL).


CMA, GoTN 103


(iii) Short Term Projects (2008 - 2013)

• Initiate site selection, conduct feasibility studies for new development hubs in the

peri-urban zones.

• Develop Municipal Park and tree plantation campaign.

• Develop Agasthyar Fall as attractive picnic spots.

• Recreational areas in townships near all water bodies integrating them with green

corridors.

• Develop mini-zoo.

• Line the canals.

• Improve roads – drains – footpaths – road markings – signage – road furniture.

• Set-up information centres for registering skilled persons, SHGs, informal sector

groups. Use best practices of ‘Reddy’s LABS’ for organising informal sector

activities.

• Fill gaps in community toilets, public conveniences.

• Plan and execute bus stand project (with 30 year perspective for traffic growth).

• Substitute all street lights with low energy luminaries; cover gaps in illumination.

• Improve garbage removal by composting – segregation – exploring recycling

possibilities.

• Build community halls at appropriate locations.

• Improve temple surroundings

• Establish Heritage Resource Centres.

• Establish Tourism Information & Promotion Centre

• Establish task force and design teams for Master plan for Conservation.

• Establish Ecological Resource & Eco-Tourism Centre.

• Create website for religious/ ethnic/ nature/ eco-tourism

• Prepare ward plans for re-densifying residential areas.

• Establishing/ Outsourcing GIS Mapping Centre.

10.3 Prioritisation of Projects

Projects have been prioritized to ensure that;

• They represent projects across sectors,

• Are short term, implementable in five years

• Preferably executed in public private partnership mode,

• Okayed by stakeholders,

• Have innovative elements for achieving ‘newness’/ demonstration effect.

On the basis of the detailed discussion with the Stakeholders of the town and analysis of the

existing situation prioritized project list for the ULB was prepared, as below:

1. Urban Roads

2. Street Ligths

3. Slum Improvement-Urban Poor with Social infrastructure like marriage Halll/

Community Hall

4. Heritage and Conservation

5. Sanitary Complex

6. E. Gov and Other Projects

The wish list which was presented by the ULB was very limited and was not in compliance

with the sustainability of the town. Therefore a comprehensive proposal was

developed by the consultant in conformity with the standards set in UIDSSMT

scheme and CPHEEO manual which is presented in the chapter 11.


CMA, GoTN 104


10.4 Infrastructure Projects

10.4.1 Traffic and Transportation

(i) Objective:

To achieve efficient transport network and improve traffic management in city and its

peri urban areas.

(ii) Short Term Strategy:

- Improve access to core area through core city improvement;

- Improve access to peri-urban areas by introducing land use conversions, developing

multi functional Nuclei, introduce by pass to link regional economy and facilitate

local economy within new development hubs, avoid haphazard sprawl by integrating

land use and transport.

- Remove all road encroachments on internal roads as a pre requisite to road

improvement.

- Organize parking lots with demarcated pitching spaces and ensuring definite no. of

car spaces.

- Provide street lights, signage, road markings on roads and intersections.

- Widen roads in core area to house entry level with demarcated foot paths on both

sides.

- Pave all roads in slum clusters; provide drains to engineering designs.

- Fix road levels permanently and adopt re-carpeting in a way as not to change levels

affecting drainage and other parameters.

- Traffic regulation and scientific guidelines should be adopted from IRC standards.

iii) Long Term Strategy

- A proper Transport Development Plan be prepared.

- A registration base for vehicle be prepared for future demand management.

- Green policies be implemented to permit cycles/ rickshaw/ pedestrians to operate in

safe road environments.

- Drains be well designed for peak summer flow as well as monsoon discharge, along

with effective monitoring of storm water drainage system.

- For lining of storm water drains, use of halved coconut shells / coconut husk and

other porous environment friendly materials may be used in view of coconut shell

availability in large volumes in the region.

- Policies and strategies be prepared as Special provisions for enhancing economic

opportunities, for developing Institutional zones, Tourism Nodes, Eco-parks, and

Multi-functional Mini Enterprise Zones and their Integration with Transport

Development Plan.

- Improve all main arteries, Bus stands, develop a new Bus stand off the By-pass which

will form part of Transport Development Plan, and, several Bus shelters at suitable

locations.

(iv) PPP

- Overhead signage on major roads and highways to be erected to international

standards.

- All residential areas be provided with direction/ indication boards along with maps

well designed and executed by reputed art agencies.


CMA, GoTN 105


- All parks, public buildings, offices be similarly provided with name boards etc as

above.

- Advertisement rights to private agencies may be given for the same for a specified

period (say 3 years).

(v) Identified Projects

- Development of Traffic Management Plan.

- Development footpaths on all main roads

- Provide zebra crossings and other markings

- Provide proper illumination and drainage

- Improve road junctions/ intersections

- Modernize and improve bus stand circulation – parking areas – public conveniences –

shops –

- Provide parking in heritage areas; pedestrianize; use bollards and signage’s.

- Provide modern petrol filling stations

- Provide slum areas paving

Table 10.1: Transportation Projects : Prioritization and Time Frame

S.No. Identified Projects 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

1 Traffic Management Plan

2

Developing street junctions /

Sidewalks / Landscape /

Road Markings

3 Developing parking lots

4

Siting/ Constructing of new Bus

stand

5 Junction / Intersection development

6

Providing Metalled access road to

slum and paving inner slum

streets

10.4.2 Urban Poor and Slums

(i) Objectives:

- To provide basic housing to poor with effective roof protection;

- Provide micro-credit for individual toilet construction and connection to septic

tank.

- Provide health care and literacy in slums.

(ii) Short Term Strategy:

• Allocating at least 20 percent of the budget in slum improvement measures.

• Deciding and implementing slum housing as either /or in-situ or replanned

slum location. Deciding on housing design, construction methods/ technology,

women’s workplaces, cost cutting frameworks.

• Toilet construction with innovative design - maintenance – management

methods.

• HSCs to 100 percent slum housing.

• Incentives to small real estate companies and business models for slum

rehousing with ULB partnership.


CMA, GoTN 106


(iii) Long Term Strategy:

• Reducing slums to not exceeding 5 percent of the total population.

• Providing transit housing for slum projects.

• Focus on non-formal skills for town building and construction activities for slum

dweller organisation against wage employment.

• Introduction of Vocational training courses for skill development/ enhancement for

relevant jobs. (masons, drivers, carpenters, accountants-book keeping, production on

machines/ mechanics, chefs-cooks-waiters….,)

• The need for a policy especially tailored to reduce poverty and its impacts in a non-

political, meaningful way is recommended.

(iv) Identified Projects:

• Networking Slum Communities for infrastucture - skills – employment –

participation.

• Preparing feasibility reports and DPRs for Pilot projects using IHSDP/ BSUP funds

to cover at least 50% slums.

• Organising community built and managed, eco-toilets for all slum areas.

• Establising micro-credit societies as well as Feasibility Funds to undertake financially

atractive projects that can attract Bank Finance. (Note in Annexure 5 on Feasibility

Funds)

Table 10.2: Urban Poor Projects: Prioritization and Time Frame


1 Preparation of DPR Pilot Project

2 Implementation of DPR

3 Construction of Community toilets

4 Landscaping / Greening Slum area

10.4.3 Solid Waste Management

(i) Objective

- To provide a waste management system with safe waste disposal in environmentally

sustainable ways to all residents.

(ii) Short Term Strategy

- Explore partnering neighbouring ULBs for cluster landfill for cost sharing and

scale of operation.

- Select suitable options for selection (both primary and secondary points) with

simple equipment, labour intensive and low energy methods.

- Strategise health care and hazardous waste disposal.

- Define collection routes, transit storage of recyclables, safe working conditions,

incentives for innovation and incentives for rationalizing operations.

- Establish monitoring systems for vehicles/ materials/ repair/ maintenance/

landfill.

- Establish vermi-composting within landfill and small recycling activities en-

route to landfill.

- Dedicate a fund for SWM for its treatment and disposal.


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(iii) Long Term Strategy

- SWM Plans be prepared for implementation

- Continuous awareness using and selecting an effective medium

- Hazardous waste collection, storage, disposal in scientific way.

- Building bye laws to tailor refuse collection notices.

(iv) PP Partnership

- Establish possibilities for PPP in the SWM chain.

- Select contracts – tasks – services for private participants.

- Deliver efficient SWM operation process within collaborative mode.

- Ensure that PPP engages in minimizing risks to either party, pays employees

regularly, bids transparently, benefits workers, is non-hazardous and has a stable

operation.

(v) Identified Projects

- Based on sustainable parameters select site for cluster engineered landfill.

- Adopt innovative arrangements for door-to-door collection and waste

segregation at source.

- Purchase equipment or arrange loans for vehicles and equipment.

- Set-up composting plants at negihbourhood/ ward level.

- Contracting privately, tipping the waste operation at a pre decided cost per ton

basis.

Table 10.3 : SWM Projects ; Prioritisation and Time Frame


1 Selecting and Construction of

Land Fill Site on co-

sharing basis

2 Private Contracting of waste

tipping

3 Hiring pvt. waste pickers for HH

garbage collection under

new arrangement

4 Setting up Composting Plant

5 Purchase of essential equipment

10.4.4 Tourism and Historical Sites

(i) Objective

Encourage economic growth in Vickramsingauram by enhancing tourism resources,

developing tourism infrastructure, promoting tourism information and establishing an

Institution for Local Initiative in Heritage Conservation, Regeneration, Urban Design

and Natural area Conservation.

(ii) Strategy

Develop a Master Plan, mapping tourist resources, devising development partnership

with Local development group/ trust, opening an area planning office (expert views/


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consultation/ committees); put on offer investment opportunities to private sector for

projects in leisure, recreation, heritage and water body improvements, commerce;

establishing an Environment and Heritage shop; establishing an Art/crafts village for

display and sale or artisan produced goods.

(iii) Major Initiative / Projects

- Accommodation/ Resorts/ Restaurants/ Cafes/ eating places.

- Entertainment and Leisure facilities.

- Temple Improvements, Picnic spot development at scenic sites (even outside

ULB jurisdiction at nearby Tourism places)

- Transportation facilities.

- Information and Communication facilities.

(iv) Identified Projects (1st Phase 2007- 2012)

- Conservation of temple and other built heritage sites.

- Rehabilitation of all old buildings (>50 yrs old).

- Tourist Guest Houses and Tourist Information Centres

- Tourism Circuits

- Construction of Heritage hotels, mid and low budget hotels

Table 10.4 : Heritage / Tourism Projects ; Prioritisation and Time Frame


1 Conservation of temples and other built

heritage sites

2 Rehabilitation of old buildings

3 Construction of Tourist Guest houses &

Information centres

4 Developing tourist circuits

5 Construction of heritage hotesl, Mid +

Low budget hotels, Rural

Tourism Resorts / Houses

6 Conservation of Water bodies

10.4.5 Storm Water Drainage

(i) Objective:

To ensure that the town is protected from flooding, and that the drainage network performs

efficiently.

(ii) Identified Projects

- All roads should be properly designed with drains on both sides of the road. All

drains should be engineered to perform year round (dry weather/ heavy rains)

drainage.

- All water bodies be rejuvenated and no untreated sewage/sullage be discharged with

them.

- Alternate methods may be used for lining of drains.

- Rain harvesting structure (roof tops/ paved/ unpaved areas/ arresting run-offs and

infiltering water into ground/ storing water under controlled conditions; these may all

be introduced as practices.


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Table 10.5: Storm Water Drainage Projects ; Prioritisation and Time Frame


1 Construction of drains along all primary

roads (both sides)

2 Adopting alternative lining methods for

secondary drains (pilot projects)

3 Water harvesting structures

4 Treatment of waste water before discharge

into water bodies

10.4.6 Sanitation

(i) Projects

- Constructing New Community toilets at specified standards for the entire existing

and projected population (till 2012)

- Upgrading existing community toilets.

- Creating a framework for their planning/ designing, executing and management.

- Constructing ‘pay and use’ toilets near large commuter flow areas (bus stand/

market/ pilgrim places.)

Table 10.6 : Sanitation Projects ; Prioritisation and Time Frame


1 Construction of new community toilets for

slum dwellers

2 Upgrading existing toilets

3 Devising framework for planning / Design /

Construction / Management /

Financing New Community Toilets

4 Constructing Pay & Use toilets at busy

locations

10.4.7 Sewerage/ under ground drainage.

(i) Objective

To prevent health risks due to poor sanitation, and create healthy communities by

covering the entire town, including slums, with sewerage network.

(ii) Short term strategy

- Introduce sewer lines, by first designing a network to cover existing HHs

through a system of STPs in decentralized way for micro zones and planning for

population projected to 2018

- Serialize the network construction for every 5 years prioritizing it as per local

demand

- Connecting community toilets to sewers

- Connecting septic tanks to network in phased way.

- Ensuring no blocking of sewer takes place.

- Ensuring re use of waste water after its primary treatment

- Moving animal population away from several areas.


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(iii) Long Term Strategy

- Providing sewer connection to 100% HHs by 2041.

- Recycling of all liquid waste for non drinking purpose.

- Ensuring non mixing of sewerage and storm water

- Ensuring storm water drains are unlittered and year round functional.

(iv) PPP

- Innovative community toilets must be explored/ constructed after pilot testing,

and by involving private sector in its construction.

- Innovative management should be practiced to attract investment into sewerage

projects (incentives…)

- Compost/ manure, as commercial output from STPs may be used for ULB

incomes (through contractual arrangements)

- Effluents, if discharged into water bodies or elsewhere used, must conform to

environmental guidelines for safety.

- All private commercial/ industrial units will install and recycle their waste

water independent of the sewerage system.

(v) Identified projects

- Capital assets are required to provide a sewerage system with safe disposal

facilities for the entire population existing in 2021, 2031 and 2041.

- Components

- Mapping and GIS, topography surveys.

- Designing sewerage network as decentralized STPs for specified population till

2021 and further for every 5 year increments of population growth.

- Constructing the STPs

- Connecting community toilets, septic tanks to the sewerage network.

Table 10.7 : Underground Dranage (Sewerage) Projects ; Prioritisation and Time Frame


1 Topography Surveys, Mapping & GIS.

2

Design of new sewerage network for

decentralised STPs for existing town

3 Construction of Sewer system with STPs

4

Connecting Community Toilets / Septic tanks

to sewers

10.4.8 Water Supply

(i) Objective

Increasing the coverage and service levels for piped water supply with assurance of its

potability.

(ii) Identified projects

- Ensuring that water supply to Vikramasingapuram ULB, required for 2012, 2021,

2031 and 2041 are available to the acceptable standard.


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- For timely augmentation, required feasibility studies and preparation of a DPR should

be taken up.

- Present deficiency would require an ESR/ UG sump of capacity MLD with a

pumping system of the same capacity to service the population till 2012.

- Mapping and GIS

- DPR preparation and implementation

- Long term water supply demand calculated over 5 year periods beyond 2012

- Treatment and storage facilities for above demand with pumping facilities.

Table 10.8 : Water Supply Projects ; Prioritisation and Time Frame


1

Feasibility study and DPR

preparation for augmenting

future water supply

2

Covering Deficient demand upto

2012, construction of

ESR/UG sump, supply

network

3 Mapping & GIS

4 DPR implementation

10.5 Concurrence on Prioritized Projects

It is necessary to involve stakeholders in concurring that projects have been conceptualized

and prioritized as per their crucial requirements, have cut across all sectors specified

under the program, entail partnership modes in their implementation and

management, and are implementable in the first few years of the program

Successful execution will not only embolden the ULB to accept and asset more challenging

projects amiably and in a conflict free development environment.

After concurrence on the identified projects, the capital investment Plans will be prepared.

The Capital Investment Plans for the sectors Road network and Transport projects; water

supply, sewerage storm water drains; solid waste management; slum improvement;

Heritage conservation; Environment and Governance, will cover Project summaries,

Cost Estimates, Project Implementation phasing and Institutional arrangements.

The implementing ULBs will decide the manner in which efficiencies can be achieved in

project cost, implementing and financing as well as in projects development and

management through PPP arrangements.


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Chapter 11 City Investment Plan (CIP)

11.1 Backdrop Study

The long –term vision for Vikramsingapuram town has already been set out in the Interim

Report of its CDP. The long-term goals of the community are expected to be driven

by fiscal, financial and policy initiatives of the ULB for making informed investment

choices for preparing the city’s Capital Investment Plan.

A CIP provides the level of investment that will be needed to implement the CDP and is an

estimate and approximation for determining the cost of implementing the stipulated

projects under the reform agenda.

The Capital Investment Plan which is an operational plan to actualize the goals and

strategies of the CDP is a multi year scheduling of the short term [usually 4-6 years]

plan for identifying capital projects and equipment purchase as well as identifying the

options for financing the plan. In real terms the plan provides effective links between

the ULB and the various city departments/ other state level agencies for identifying as

well as balancing competing needs and consequently developing short[and later long]

term capital finance plan. This way the city’s capital investments, both new and

O&M, as well as technical capacity for construction and O&M, through the linked

strategic plans spelt out in the CDP, get reflected in the Municipality’s annual budget.

11.1.1 Benefits of CIP

The Benefits of a CIP are;

1 Potential projects can be systematically evaluated at the same time.

2 Debts can be stabilized and projects consolidated to reduce the costs of borrowing.

3 It can serve as an public relations and economic development tool.

It also ensures the efficient use of public funds for preserving the ULB’s infrastructure whilst

promoting cooperation between the ULB and other public service structures.

11.1.2 Features of CIP

The typical Features of a CIP include;

• A list of capital projects [or equipment] to be purchased.

• A ranking of the projects as prioritized.

• The plan for financing them.

• The timetable for constructing or completing the projects.

• Justification for the projects.

As understood, capital projects are tangible with a life expectancy beyond one year. As the

CIP includes financial issues, it involves reviewing the ULB’s current finances.

Subsequent to its adoption, it is required to take count of a series of tasks, as,

inventorying existing capital assets, evaluating incomplete projects, assessing

financial capacity, compiling/ evaluating new projects, prioritizing them,

developing the Financial Plan, adopting the CIP, monitoring / managing the

approved projects, and updating the existing and ongoing Capital Projects.


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As part of the preparation of a CIP, it is prudent to consider the prevailing norms/ standards of

infrastructure services, and options for their provision, e.g. high, medium, low or

mixed. The agreed option should match public expectations and the technical

capacities of the ULB. Needless to say that they should be rationally chosen.

11.2 CIP Process for Vikramsingapuram

The framework for the long –term vision has already been provided in the CDP in the

previous chapters. These centre on leveraging the connectivity to the adjoining Kerala

State through State Highway 40, the ambience of Western Ghats which translates to

waterfalls, rivers, forests and wild life reserves as well as temples and other

significant architectural heritage. They all point to developing Tourism for catalyzing

economic growth and also encashing forest resources for organic products/

handicrafts and handlooms. The effect of development can significantly enhance if

the efforts serve the two adjoining towns of Vikramsingapuram and Ambasamudram.

This chapter focuses on the Capital Investment Plan on the Infrastructure needs for the

following urban sectors

(i) Water Supply;

(ii) Sewerage and Sanitation;

(iii) Storm Water Drainage;

(iv) Solid Waste Management;

(v) Traffic &Transportation;

(vi) Slums &Basic Services for the Urban Poor;

(vii) Others such as Urban Renewal, Urban Governance

Sector wise projects as identified cover the following;

• Project Summary; A description of the projects is made and its requirements assessed

as per Norms in Manuals/ standard reference documents as well as other stated

guidelines

• Cost Estimation of Projects identified; Project costs are assessed on the basis of

PWD Schedule of Rates for Tamil Nadu for Roads & Buildings the Water Supply

project emerged during the consultation process as given in the interim report of the

CDP after a due evaluation of the service levels, growth trends and future needs of

the city. Vikramsingapuram needs up-gradation/ improvement of the service apart

from meeting the needs of incremental growth in population. The Vikramsingapuram

Municipality also needs to strengthen its financial capacity for an effective service

delivery.

The prepared list of projects intend to meet the ULB’s goals for efficiency, a prompt

service delivery, strategic growth in house service connections and consequently an

increase in its revenue, are environmentally sustainable, benefit the community, and

meet the growing demands and incorporate the O&M needs.

• Phasing Plan for Project Implementation; The Phasing Plan presents the Project

Implementation Schedule during the period 2009-2014.

• Institutional Arrangements; This presents the Institutions/ULB/ Others responsible

for undertaking projects under the different sectors.


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The implementing institutions for projects in Vikramsingapuram are the Vikramsingapuram

Municipality, the Tamil Nadu Water and Drainage Board (TWAD), the TN Public

Works Department (PWD) the TN Town Planning Department, the TN Tourism

Department, the TN Forest & Environment Department, the TN Fisheries Department

11.3 Water Supply

11.3.1 Overview

The Water Supply project emerged during the consultation process as given in the interim

report of the CDP after a due evaluation of the service levels, growth trends and

future needs of the city. Vikramsingapuram needs up gradation/ improvement of the

service apart from meeting the needs of incremental growth in population. The

Vikramsingapuram Municipality also needs to strengthen its financial capacity for an

effective service delivery.

The prepared list of projects intends meeting the ULB’s goals for efficiency, a prompt service

delivery, strategic growth in house service connections and consequently an increase

in its revenue, be environmentally sustainable, benefit the community, and meet the

growing demand whilst incorporating the O&M needs.

11.3.2 Project Summary

The identified projects on preparing their DPRs can be classified under:

1 Production System

2 Storage System

3 Distribution System

4 Monitoring System

Locations of these components need to be put on maps

The Production System

Presently Vikramsingapuram is wholly dependant on surface water drawn from Tambraparani

river’s Kodamelaian anicut ( first anicut after Agasthya falls). The scheme initiated

40 years ago has progressed through three extension schemes for covering the

perspective population of 2036 and is clearly serving its purpose over future needs.

As such the need for source creation, improvement in supply, construction, O & M of

new assets is obviated, including the need for the other components ( as mentioned

below) that make up the water supply system.

� Head works

� Transporting raw water from surface source/ infiltration well at existing source

� Treatment of water

� Water pumps

� Water transmission main

� Booster station at

� Feeder mains

� Service reservoirs

� Distribution system with energy savers

� Distribution mains in previous omitted areas


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(i) Water Treatment plant of 6.5 MLD (2021): Water Treatment Plant of 6.5 MLD

(2021) is already in operation against the present requirement of 2006.

(ii) Proposed Tube wells and Pumps: The assessed number have already taken into

account on design period of 15 years. A complementary supply from rain fed

construction of open wells/ tanks/ponds/ water harvesting structures for at least 10%

of the total supply. There is no established need for drilling tubewells for water

supply.

(iii) The Storage System:

• The present storage system of 2.2 ML is 33% of the total supply estimated at 6.6 ML.

The storage system should support continuous water supply for the city. The locations

should ensure that a water head of 4m. is available at the tail end of the distribution

system.

• CWR of 2.94ML Capacity: In order to counter the problem of power failure, the

design should propose to store water in CWR of 2.94ML capacity at a specified

location preferably given in the map.

• Overhead Reservoirs: OHRs of specified capacity (in LL) will be constructed with

the minimum staging height for improving water head at the tail end of the supply

network. These are to be connected to rising main for water intake and appropriately

shown on maps.

(iv) The Distribution System

The Distribution System comprises of rising main, sub main and primary distribution

network. Vikramsingapuram has fair amount of losses which have to be monitored

and new network laid in the non serviced areas of the town. With assured supply of

water for future, the network efficiency and water supply norms need to be adhered

and monitored.

(v) The Monitoring System

This involves monitoring both quantity and quality as well as minimizing losses of water and

the installation of Metering system for Bulk and end user consumption. Essentially

these should be done using energy efficient methods in a regime which ensures water

quality which is free of bacteria /other physico-chemical contaminants. It is suggested

that reliance be placed on automated water generation rather than human intervention.

Initial high costs of technology are compensated by efficient and reliable service

delivery.

11.3.3 Cost Estimates of Water Supply Projects

Broad cost estimates proposed are based on the unit costs. Investments are required to be

scheduled through an iterative process, taking into account aspects such as;

� Developed areas taking precedence over future development areas;

� Considerations for complementary investment for sewerage & sanitation and the

linkages thereof;

� Considerations for project size, the duration for implementation;

� Linking house service provision with the geographical expansion of the project


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These have been provided in the consolidated CIP at the end of this chapter and are followed

by a phasing plan. Cost estimates follow unit rates derived from the Schedule of rates

(SoR) for each component. The water supply schemes have to meet the phasewise

demands of the town as per the DPR.

The urban local body for the period of next five does not wish to expand its water

augmentation through source as a scheme for this has been implemented,

wherein the demand for a shorter period has been taken care off. However, as

and when there will be increase in population/as per the priority and financial

arrangements ULB would require to expand its augmentation, treatment,

storage, and distribution. Development of metering and monitoring system

cannot be neglected in developing the water supply system however can be taken

as the last priority.

11.4 Sewerage and Sanitation

11.4.1 Overview

Vikramsingapuram does not have a sewerage system. A new one has to be put in place by the

TWAD Board. For doing this it is important to know the general and flood levels in

the town as well as the general slope of the city. The ridge formation too should be

known. At present the major modes of disposal are through individual septic tanks

and low cost sanitation through community toilets which are required to be

periodically cleaned by the municipality. About 63% of the HH have septic tanks

and nearly 7% have access to low cost sanitation units, the remaining defecate in open which is environmental hazard. The general practice of letting out wastewater

into low lying area or nearby stream is adopted creating insanitation. While designing

a new system it is important to ensure that sewer and water lines do not intercede for

avoiding contamination. In no case should the water line be laid below the sewer line.

GIS mapping for utilities is important and a prerequisite for a well designed

system.

For executing the sewerage project the requirement of STP cannot be under estimated and for

which land allocation will have to be considered. It may be possible to design the

STP for the neighbouring townships also and in integrated way. Since the economy of

the town is fairly sufficient one can consider higher cost technology for the STP and

ones which are land intensive.

Projects for Sewerage would include;

• An Underground Drainage System with provision for (a) Collection and Disposal

network (b)Treatment System

• Individual Sanitation System operated by a network of Septic Tanks

• Low Cost Sanitation System

On account of violating its natural drainage several wards in the city are flooded during

monsoons making them dysfunctional. General lay of the land is north to south; the

wards north of the E-W running Kodamelagian canal drain into the river. Those on

the southern part are helped by the terrain to log water and cultivate paddy between

the channel and the river. The city’s existing drainage partially served by some pucca

and katcha drains along with the non-existence of a sewerage system further

exacerbates loading on roadside drains which receive in addition the sewage and

sullage of the city. The open katcha and pucca drains need to be upgraded and a


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closed drainage system introduced, besides the construction of New Drains and

desilting the existing ones.

Whilst the Detailed Project Report for Drainage for the entire town would identify specifics

with regard to ward level, area level and city level design details, the projects for

Improvements in the Drainage system would comprise of (i) Construction of New

Drains, (ii) Upgrading open & katcha drains to closed drainage system, and

(iii)Desilting blocked drains

Where the topography flattens making difficult the draining of the area, there would be need

for Pumping Stations at pre decided locations after a proper topographic assessment

11.4.2 The Underground Drainage System

The Development of Disposal System would incorporate Laying of the Trunk Network of

the desired length of specified size diameter for coverage of the existing town and

future development area as per the design; Laying of the Sub-Main Sewer

Network; Laying of the Lateral Sewer; Household Connection Sewer as well as

construction of Public Toilet complexes to serve slums, bus stands, shopping centres

and other recreational or other public areas. Particular care would be taken at notable

tourist places in the town.

The Individual sanitation system presently operative in old city areas or the isolated

residential and commercial areas dependant on site septic tanks or soak pits will

gradually be phased out to make room for standard UGD system beyond 2015.

Similarly the Low Cost Sanitation system would similarly be phased out to be replaced by

the UGD system beyond 2012. Till then it may be necessary to provide for LCS

system of sewage disposal for low income communities living in degenerated areas,

preferring introduction of eco toilets

The Operation and Maintenance system would entail procurement of equipment for

ensuring an efficient function and zero blockage by using appropriate technology

(sewage Lifting Stations, Sewer Flushing machines, Sewer Jetting machines, CCTVs

etc.). Treatment plant of 5MLD would be required by 2015.

Treatment plant of 6.7 MLD capacity is required for 2015.

Related aspects of the sewerage system would require that an effective Monitoring

arrangement be instituted by networking of STPs, establishing Testing Labs.,

automation and computerization of the system at a Central Control Room. The

STP location and setting should ensure nuisance free environment by proper

afforestation. Personnel have to be trained for the new roles, and, people have to

be made aware about adopting the new system.

11.4.3 Cost Estimates of UGD Projects

The urban local body does not wish to undertake development of underground drainage

system. A resolution has been passed by the board that underground drainage

system cannot be developed in the town. However, as and when there will be

increase in population/as per the priority and financial arrangements ULB

would require to expand its treatment, pumping, and distribution system,


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whatever cost it may incur. Moreover, it has been mandated in UIDSSMT to

establish under ground drainage system as these are delayed investments.

11.5 Storm Water Drainage

11.5.1 Overview

The present system of drainage in the town consists of natural as well as man made drains. In

fact, the man-made drains are linked to the natural drains for disposal. The storm

water drains carry mainly the waste water comprising the sullage and sewerage from

the houses. This has created enormous environmental problems.

The length of storm water drainage network in the town is 58 km. This is approximately

1.1 times the length of road in the town. A DPR for constructing 13 km of new

drains and repairing 6 kms of existing drain is approved and work in progress.

A new DPR would be required to cover gaps of 77 km additional requirement of

drains upto 2012.

It has been observed that nearly 30% of the town remains flooded during the rainy season

making this component a critical one for Vikramsingapuram.

Trapezoidal sections with cunette at the base for dry weather flow gives hydraulic efficiency

to drains and should be adopted discarding the rectangular sections

The Operation and Maintenance of the drainage system by Vikramsingapuram Municipality

staff should assign due importance to safety and disaster prevention plus

environmental hazards by use of a monitoring system and vigilant handling.

Flood prone wards should integrate their drainage network by remodeling and even

constructing new drains to enhance system efficiency.

It is a preferred option to design a drainage system with outfall into a receptive water

harvesting structure for enabling ground water recharge knowing that the area is

drought prone and water supply a critical issue.

Building bye laws/ rules should be made mandatory for Rain Water Harvesting.

11.5.2 SWD System & Design Considerations

Whilst the Detailed Project Report for Drainage would identify specifics with regard to ward

level, area level and city level design details, the projects for Improvements in the

Drainage system would comprise of:

(i) Construction of New Drains,

(ii) Upgrading open & katcha drains to closed drainage system, and

(iii) Desilting blocked drains

11.5.3 Cost Estimates of Storm Water Projects


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These have been provided in the consolidated CIP at the end of the chapter followed by

Phasing Plan. Cost estimates follow SoR for each component.

11.6 Solid Waste Management

11.6.1 Overview

The projects in solid waste management were identified considering the diverse aspects of

waste management and prioritizing based on level of services, city growth, and

possible options in solid waste management.

Presently 83% (2 MT) of the 10.56MT of waste produced in Vikramsingapuram is disposed

primitively on a site of 6.4 acres located at Kattaboman Clonywithin the city. A

composting yard is proposed to be set up using wind rose method and approximate

systems. Preparing a DPR will give a correct position vis a vis solid waste disposal of

21.9 MT scientifically.

11.6.2 SWM System

The SWM Collection system comprises of

1. Primary collection system The system of primary collection followed is cleaning, sweeping and collection of MSW by

handcarts. In future it is proposed to be dustbin free city except in the commercial

areas. This is possible by means of having a systematic door to door collection.

Pilot Project for Ragpickers: A pilot project for primary collection of waste (door to door)

will act as towards employment generation for the urban poor whilst serving a

important city level function. Three wards geographically representing the different

areas of the Vikramsingapuram Municipality shall be selected for the purpose of the

pilot projects.

2. Secondary collection system

The secondary collection comprises of collection bins of 4.5 MT are required to be placed at

conveniently placed for efficiency and covers the entire municipal area.

3. Development of Transportation System For primary collection of waste energy efficient transports such as handcarts designed for

selected load and convenient loading shall be used whilst vehicular transport -

trucks/tractors for collecting waste from secondary collection points to disposal sites.

4. Development of Disposal System

No scientific methods of disposal are followed. The waste is dumped at the current disposal

site on a site of 6.4 acres in the town within the municipal limit. A site of 5 acres is

proposed to be purchased for compost yard, and there is a proposal to save cost on

land purchase by accepting donated land for the purpose.

The disposal systems need to take into account longer perspective and designed for atleast 30

years. Thereby, requiring a larger site effectively afforested (for nuisance free

environment) and integrating on site screening, composting and recycling activities as

well as sanitary landfill with arrangements of safe handling of hazardous wastes.

Alternatively scientific landfill at cluster level is an option exercised only through

concurrence and discussion by other ULBs.


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The prospect of disposal on scientific sanitary landfill site can work to advantage on a larger

dedicated disposal site for the long term plan upto 2041.

5. Miscellaneous Works/Activities: Organizing waste workers and citizens into action in the

activity a series of capacity building and public awareness campaigns will be

necessary. PPP, SHGs and other appropriate mechanisms can be used to advantage as

per the State Policy.

11.6.3 Cost estimates of projects

The various projects for solid waste management include waste collection, transportation,

disposal and monitoring facility. These have been provided in the consolidated CIP at

the end of the chapter followed by Phasing Plan. Cost estimates follow SoR for each

component.

11.7 Traffic &Transportation

11.7.1 Overview

Roads form the main component of transportation system of any towns along with public

transport system, parking, signage, bus stop / shelters, etc. They are like arteries of

any settlements having economics and society heavily depended on them. It has been

observed that with the growth of urban areas many of the larger cities starts facing the

problem of traffic congestions, jams, larger travel time encroachments, traffic

mismanagement, erupting the day to day life of urban people. On the similar track,

one day, smaller urban settlements will also move, where, if the problems are not

resolved at this stage, can amplify and lead to unplanned growth.

During our visit to Vikramsingapuram Municipality the towns development appeared

bifurcated on account of the Kodamelagian Canal running West to East, and further

down, again, by the River Tambraparani. Most roads north of the canal runs at right

angles to each other in grid iron fashion coupled with some organically developed

areas. Major roads in the town run parallel to the Ambavalanapuram Road (West to

East) which is the main artery and also leads to regional destinations.

The ULB has some parts of forests ad water bodies as well as part of the slopes of the

Western Ghats/reservoirs and dams which are accessed by a hill road.

The consultation process articulated the need to convert all roads to all weather ones and work

towards accessing Kerala through forest road considered key ingredient.

Generally the projects under this section can be divided into two groups (i) short-term

improvement measures and (iii) long term improvement measures. Short term

improvement measures are regulatory measures and immediate remedial measures on

low investment cost. These include converting roads with two-way traffic to one-way

traffic; restricting entry of goods vehicles in core area etc. The long-term measures

involve construction of bridges, flyovers and new roads respectively.

11.7.2 Interim Measures

The short-term measures should be taken up as an immediate priority and attempted within a

1-3 year framework they are likely to give results with immediate effect for a low

investment proposed. These involve civil works of minor nature or simple

rearrangements for better efficiency. These are:


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1. Preparation of Traffic Management Plan

Current and anticipated traffic of both regional and local level impacting Vikramsingapuram

Municipality would require to be assessed and a Plan prepared for project to be taken

up un the short and long term.

2. Improvement of Traffic Corridors

Vikramsingapuram has 2-3 major corridors catering to the local and regional traffic which

need to be improved and upgraded to concrete roads. The remaining road length

needs widening so as to ease core area congestion. A detailed survey exercise is

required to get the desired lengths and Road Right of Ways. The entire 67 km of

existing roads would have to be upgraded to desired service levels.

3. Intersection Improvements

The 5-6 major roads including the major artery which passes through the centre of the city

require a signalized intersection, level crossings too have to be signalized. All

intersections need improvement for efficient movement of traffic after duly

examining them.

4. Removal of Encroachments and Provision of Sidewalks

The commercial encroachments on roads and sidewalks as well other encroachments such as

squatter and garbage dumps are common phenomenon in urban settlement in the

Municipal area. These encroachments are extension of built-up properties; parking of

vehicles of shopkeepers/ customers and informal vegetable and cloth market on major

roads. The carriage ways have to be kept free and sidewalks restored for pedestrian

movement and traffic efficiency.

5. On Street & Off Street Parking

All unauthorized on-street parking to be banned and designated locations (identified by

demand levels and feasibility) to be auctioned for private operation. The off street

parking is one of the important projects for the town. Around 30% of the roads are

encroached with the on street parking of private and commercial vehicles (Tempo,

Taxi, Auto Rickshaw etc).

6. Provision of appropriate street / traffic infrastructure (Street furniture, signage’s, hoardings, etc): Street furniture, signage, hoardings etc. also forms the part of short

term improvement measures. These components add quality to the overall traffic

management system.

7. Other Short Term Improvement Measures: The other measure for traffic improvement

involves Training of Traffic Police on Traffic Management; Public Awareness and

Traffic Enforcement Drives and Registration of vehicles.

8. O & M of Projects 2 to 6.

11.7.3 Long Term Measures

All medium term solutions are to be implemented in a 5-10 year time horizon. These will

involve some investment (high or average). These will require some redesigning, civil

construction works, organizational changes, etc.


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1. Construction of New Road

The per capita road length is 1.3 against the given standard of 1.75 mts. This can be done

when DPR of roads is prepared. By 2012 an additional 27 kms. of roads would be

necessary for meeting the standards.

2. Construction of ROBs

At all level crossings the construction of flyovers would be mandatory as they not just ease

traffic but also contribute to road safety.

3. Introduction of a Formal Public Transport (bus) System This requires development of bus stands and public/private operators to facilitate town level

as well as regional transportation.

4. Other Improvement Measures The other measure for traffic improvement involves Installation of CCTV, Speed Radar, and

Video Camera for traffic management.

Apart from the above three the other project which can be taken under consideration in

Traffic and Transportation section are construction of the flyover, construction of

pedestrian over bridge, widening of regional roads/by-pass roads, utilization of water

transport system etc. At present in Vikramsingapuram these projects are not required

till next 15 years, thereafter if the need will arise these can be taken into consideration

for improving traffic management.

11.8 Street Lighting

11.8.1 Overview

Street lights form an essential component of the infrastructure and is generally looked in

conjunction with the roads and transportation system of any towns. Provision and

maintenance of street lights is a mandatory function of any ULB. This includes their

installations, replacement/ repair, operation and maintenance. Street lighting is

important because it:

• Allows the safe movement of motorists or pedestrians;

• Enhances the amenity of an area

• Acts as a deterrent to crime

Minimum Street light spacing required between successive lampposts is dependent on the

road width, traffic volume and land use on a particular road. Ideally street lights have

to be placed at an interval of 30 m. The spacing between street lights in

Vikramsingapuram Municipality is at 53m, much lower than the standards, thereby

indicating a need for increasing the number of luminaries.

11.8.2 Strategies

In conventional street lighting energy wastage is due to:

• Irregular switching off and switching on

• Over design in selected areas

• Ad hoc installation of lighting systems as load patterns Increase

• Manual switching practices


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Road and street lighting is one of the largest single expenditure items for Corporations. As a

result, it is important for Corporations to keep up-to-date with developments in lamp

and light fitting technology. This will allow them to take advantage of opportunities

to reduce the cost, energy use and emissions associated with street lighting, while

providing a better service to road users. Savings measures include:

Use of Solar Lights

Solar lamps (sponsored by business houses/ communities/ other active participants) should be

adopted. Solar panels and Photovoltaic Cells are being marketed with government

subsidy, this should be fully utilized.

These systems should be provided with automatic ON/OFF time switch for dusk to down

operation and overcharge / deep discharge prevention cut-off with LED indicators.

Energy Audits and Energy efficiency opportunities Energy audits and low energy adoption measures need to be undertaken for reducing energy

expenditure by municipality.

� Timers to street lights ensure less wasteful culture.

� Replacing inefficient lamps

� Reducing the number of lights operating

� Reducing operating hours

� Replacing inefficient switching equipment

� Changing type of energy used

� Improving maintenance practices

� Improving data management

Automatic lighting controls Installing a device to automatically switch off one or more fittings should only be considered

after lighting density has been addressed, as lighting power density tends to be

cheaper to fix and the savings generated are more reliable.

Privatization Options Privatisation in the form of maintenance contract may be explored by the ULB.

11.8.3 Cost Estimates of Project

The various projects under street lights have been provided in the consolidated CIP at the end

of the chapter followed by Phasing Plan. Cost estimates follow SoR for each

component.

11.9 Basic Services to the Urban Poor

11.9.1 Overview

Vikramsingapuram Municipality has nearly 11,500 households. Out of these nearly 9% are

slum households concentrated in the wards 3,9,11,13,19, 20 and 21. In general it is

observed that the affordability for a pucca house is only 40% with permanent roofs,

remaining 60% live in kutcha houses. This takes to estimating the demand for

housing aggressively on a program of (i) slum related housing and (ii) non slum

related housing.

11.9.2 Strategies

The policy to deal with poverty is largely recommended through the following strategies:


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• Facilitating house reconstruction as a permanent structure with regular provision for

HSCs for water supply and sewerage system whenever installed with interim

arrangement for septic tanks(for categoryii)

• In-situ upgradation & rehabilitation in permanent housing with regular provision for

HSCs to water supply and sewerage system whenever installed, and an interim

arrangement for PSPs and Community Toilets as per laid down norms (for category

ii)

• Making available night shelters rental units to new migrants and potential squatters/

slum tenants (@ 25% of all slum households) in single room / shared accommodation

for short or extended stay at affordable rental which is reviewed every 2 years for

change depending on the rental market in Vikramsingapuram Municipality. in

properly serviced and well maintained housing areas managed by PPP.

Preparation of a DPR will cover all slum pockets and, all katcha shelter units per ward, and

quantum of housing units needed as rental ones. Action plans maybe phased with the

first phase devoted to detailed surveys quantifying demand, and upgrading 50% of the

identified slums/ katcha houses/rental housing construction, with the 2nd

phase

covering the remainder.

11.9.3 Cost Estimates of Project

• Costs for in-situ upgradation includes paved paths, drainage, street lighting, piped water

supply, individual and community toilets, community facilities for health/

education/recreations. The cost per hectare of Rs1 crore is assumed to be spread over

3 years.

• Costs for 50% reconstruction and 50% in-situ upgradation assumed @ Rs. 3 crore per

hectare spread over 3 years

• Provision of rental units in pre determined sites within new/ existing housing areas/near

new employment nodes for which estimates have been assumed

The above have been reflected in the consolidated CIP at the end of the chapter followed by

Phasing Plan.

11.10 List of Projects for Vikramsingapuram under different Sectors

11.10.1 SECTOR: Water Supply

S. NO. PROJECT / INITIATIVES REMARKS

1 Streamlining House Service Connections into legalized

ones

In - house activity

2 Enhancing water supply infrastructure by source creation,

laying of pipes /pumps etc.

Preparation of DPR

3 Developing water storage(underground &overhead) for

present & future population up to 2015

Preparation of DPR

4 Pumping system in new developing adjoining areas for

present and future development up to 2015

Preparation of DPR

5 Piping work for present & future development up to 2015 Preparation of DPR

6 Awareness Programs NGO/SHG/In-house


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7 O & M In-house

8 Reforms(PPP/ water tax/laws/strategies) State and ULB driven

11.10.2 SECTOR: Sewerage


1 Laying of sewer network for present municipal area

including connection of septic tanks, pumping

facility (present density @ 13pph, increased

density @ 16pph by 2021)

Preparation of DPR

2 Construction of STP (6.7 MLD )for 2021 Preparation of DPR

3 O & M In-house

4 Laying of sewer for adjoining future development areas Preparation of DPR

5 Construction of community toilets (seat & bath)

complexes

Preparation of DPR

11.10.3 SECTOR: Drainage


1 Reconstruction/ Remodeling of 50% pucca drains Preparation of DPR

2 Conversion of katcha to pucca drains Preparation of DPR

3 Construction of new drains Preparation of DPR

4 De silting existing drains In-house

5 O & M In-house

Developing new drainage infrastructure for new adjoining

developing areas.

Preparation of DPR

11.10.4 SECTOR: Urban Transport


1 Improvement of major corridors (total length 20 kms.) Preparation of DPR

2 Upgrading, remodeling of all other roads (total length

47kms.)

Preparation of DPR

3 Improvement of major & minor junctions/ intersections Preparation of DPR

4 Construction of sidewalks, bus bays and service roads for

transport stops ( at least 20 locations)

Preparation of DPR

5 O & M of listed projects In-house

6 Development of parking areas at least on 10 locations Preparation of DPR

7 Construction/ remodeling of bus stand, truck depot, and

warehousing

Preparation of DPR

8 Encroachment removal and decongestion measures In-house

9 Public Awareness program on traffic discipline In-house

10 Signage, Road markings, road furniture, provision of

automatic signals, Indication boards/ Road and

Area Maps

Preparation of DPR


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11 Site development for petrol filling stations In-house/State Town

Planning

12 Adopting scientific guidelines for traffic regulation Based on

Consultancy

11.10.5 SECTOR: Solid Waste Management


1 Equipment for solid waste management for Y2015 Preparation of DPR

2 Sanitary Landfill (landfill development, construction &

equipment) for 2031

Preparation of DPR

3 Infrastructure Facilities at solid waste disposal site(roads/

green belt/land development)by 2031

Preparation of DPR

4 Incineration for biomedical waste Preparation of DPR

5 Awareness Campaign and Capacity Building In-house/NGO/SHG

6 O & M In-house

7 Increasing coverage to 100% through a PPP model In-house

8 Developing a Composting plant for 2031 (site

development/ construction and equipment

purchase)

Preparation of DPR

11.10.6 11.10.7 SECTOR: Heritage and Tourism


1 Conservation of historic temples, sites, landmarks in and

near town

Preparation of DPR

2 Conservation of water bodies, forest areas and their

surroundings in and near the town

Preparation of DPR

3 Development of green corridors, parks, recreation

sites/guest houses within Eco-parks

Preparation of DPR

4 Heritage and Culture Zone Preparation of DPR

5 Inner city development Preparation of DPR

6 Tourist nodes (3 no.s) at Regional State Level Preparation of DPR

7 Public sanitation facilities In-house

8 Public space with food courts and kiosks/tourist oriented

bazaar-flea market/ Other Bazaars in Commercial

Zone

Preparation of DPR

9 Ring road/ Regional Road network and Business Zone

Development

Preparation of DPR

10 Establishing a special cell for Heritage conservation and

Inner city Renewal

State and ULB

11 Establishing a special cell for mini enterprise development

and Institutional development State & ULB

State and ULB

Note: Projects from S.No 9 to 11 same as for adjoining ULB Ambasamudram


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11.10.8 SECTOR: Basic Services for Urban Poor


1 Preparing DPR for Slum Development Preparation of DPR

2 Provision of housing Preparation of DPR

3 Provision of PSPs @ 1 PSP for 15 households (interim

measure)

Preparation of DPR

4 Laying the WS network for present and future

development up to 2015

In-house

5 House Service Connections to 100% slum households Preparation of DPR

6 Construction of Community Toilet complexes for present

and future population

Preparation of DPR

7 Construction of new drains Preparation of DPR

8 Remodeling/ reconstructing/de-silting katcha drains and

converting them to pucca ones

Preparation of DPR

9 Connecting drains to city wide network and improvement

works in flood prone wards

Preparation of DPR

10 Widening roads and paths Preparation of DPR

11 Converting katcha roads to pucca ones Preparation of DPR

12 Installing street lights In-house

13 Solid waste management Preparation of DPR

14 Constructing Community services centre In-house

15 Constructing primary school as per standard In-house

16 Constructing community level shopping centre In-house

17 Construction of interim rental units for independent/

shared stay at select sites near employment nodes

In-house

18 Construction of workshop spaces In-house

19 O & M In-house

11.10.9 SECTOR: Disaster Management


1 Preparation of Environmental base maps& Impact

Area Diagrams

Based on Consultancy

2 Preparation of Disaster Management Plan Based on Consultancy

3 Installation/ Equipment/Erection/ other accessories-

instruments as identified in the DMP

Preparation of DPR

4 Awareness and Implementation of regulations as

identified in the DMP

In-house

11.10.10 SECTOR: Environmental Aspects



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1 Construction of Rain Water Harvesting structures

within green/ open spaces; harvesting rain

water in buildings; Implementing bye laws for

same

Preparation of DPR

2 Sea front Development Preparation of DPR

3 Development of Sewerage system Preparation of DPR

4 Development of Drainage system Preparation of DPR

5 Awareness Programs on Environmental Issues In-house/NGO

Campaigns

6 Shift towards reduction in carbon emissions/ adoption

of clean fuel

Based on Consultancy


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11.11 Sector wise City Investment Plan

Investment

till

2013

-14

2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2021 2041

Sector/ Component (Rs. Lakhs) (Rs. Lakhs)

Water supply

Total Investment 540.42 108.31 108.31 108.31 108.31 107.18 227.73 687.16

1 Source/ system capacity augmentation - 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 16.00 63.43

2 Treatment capacity augmentation - 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 13.33 52.86

3 Distribution network augmentation - 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 15.74 62.40

4 Elevated Storage capacity augmentation - 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 23.17 49.61

5 Refurbishment of old Distribution Network - 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 91.88 200.40

6 Metering and Monitoring System 540.42 108.31 108.31 108.31 108.31 107.18 67.61 258.46

Sewerage

Total Investment 315 \76.89 76.89 53.88 53.88 53.88 1,836.25 1,465.78

1 UGD - Network 266 53.26 53.26 53.26 53.26 53.26 1,438.83 1,215.69

2 UGD - STPs 46 23.01 23.01 - - - 248.63 210.07

3 UGD - Pumping Machinery 3 0.62 0.62 0.62 0.62 0.62 148.80 40.02

4 Refurbishment of Old Distribution Network

5

Procurement of sewer maintenance equipment

(CCTV, Sewer Jetting Machine, Septic Tank

Cleaner et.al)

Roads & Urban Transport

Total Investment 482 108.48 108.48 78.48 78.48 78.48 243.12 888.66

1 Roads Up-gradation

a) BT to CC - - - - - - - -


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b) Earthen/WBM to BT 181 36.19 36.19 36.19 36.19 36.19 - 216.33

2 Roads New Formation 126 25.28 25.28 25.28 25.28 25.28 148.12 587.33

3 Imp. Road (Widening, beautification, ROBs, bridges,

utility shifting etc) 60 12.00 12.00 12.00 12.00 12.00 15.00 30.00

4 Public Transport/ Improvements 25 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 50.00 25.00

5 Traffic Management/ Junction Improvements 60 30.00 30.00 - - - 30.00 30.00

6 Parking 30 7.50 7.50 7.50 7.50

Drains

Total Investment 377 75 75 75 75 75 - 249

1 Drains Up-gradation

2 Drains New Formation 248.71

3 Desilting & Strengthening of Pucca Drains 377 75.40 75.40 75.40 75.40 75.40

Street Lights

Total Investment 79 16 16 16 16 16 12 46

1 Replacement - Tube Lights 26 5.12 5.12 5.12 5.12 5.12

2 New Installation - Tube Lights

3 New Installation - High power Lamps 53 10.57 10.57 10.57 10.57 10.57 11.52 45.68

4 New Installation - High Mast Lamps 0 0.16 0.16 0.11

Conservancy (SWM) & Sanitation

Total Investment 225 104.11 42.82 42.82 24.23 10.73 6.05 229.15

1 New Vehicles (Primary Collection) 3 0.66 0.66 0.66 0.66 0.66 0.49 0.31

2 New Vehicles (Secondary and Disposal) 40 40.00 40.00

3 Acquiring New Disposal Site 71 26.76 15.97 15.97 6.39 6.39 5.09 86.08

4 Infrastructure at Disposal Site and Composting Plant 8 1.68 1.68 1.68 1.68 1.68 0.46 1.25

5 DLDPs & Container Bins 102 35.00 24.50 24.50 15.50 2.00 - 101.50

6 Research, Training and Awareness


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Urban Poor/ Slums

Total Investment 1,140 228 228 228 228 228

1 Slum Improvement - Rehabilitation/ Housing 872 174.40 174.40 174.40 174.40 174.40

2 Slum Improvement - Infrastructure 218 43.60 43.60 43.60 43.60 43.60

3 Slum Improvement - Land acquisition 50 10.00 10.00 10.00 10.00 10.00

E gov./Land use/ Dev. Planning

Total Investment 117 117

1 E Governance 10 10.0

2 Survey and Mapping(GIS) 104 104.5

2 Capacity Building of ULB Staff 3 2.5

Others

Total Investment 245 95 50 50 50

1 Heritage and Conservation 45 45.00

2 Street Furniture 10 2.50 2.50 2.50 2.50

3 Tree Plantation & Gardens 15 3.75 3.75 3.75 3.75

4 Night Shelters/ Travellers Bungalows

5 Fire System

6 Water Body Conservation 100 25.00 25.00 25.00 25.00

7 Others (System Studies etc) 75 18.75 18.75 18.75 18.75

Grand Total 3,521 929 706 653 634 569 2,325 3565


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Chapter 12 ASSET MANAGEMENT PART I- INTRODUCTION TO ASSET MANAGEMENT

12.1 Introduction

Assets by definition include, but are not limited to information in all forms and media, networks,

systems, material, real property, financial resources, employee trust, public confidence and

international reputation which are the tangible or intangible things of the Urban Local Bodies

(ULBs).

These assets of the ULB whether in the form of water distribution networks, sewerage, roads, buildings,

equipments deteriorate over a period of time due to use, climatic and geological conditions.

Certain components of the infrastructure are neglected and proper maintenance/ remedial

measures are not undertaken due to lack of adequate funding and appropriate support

technologies.

ULBs are not in a position to take up repair, rehabilitate or reconstruct their assets on their own in the

absence of complete data base, inadequate funds. This leads to a reduction in the asset value

to an extent where excess costs have to be incurred in renewal of the assets and excess

expenditure in creating new ones. The deterioration of the assets also affects the existing

financial situation of the ULBs by ways of reduction in revenues.

For strategic, operational and financial reasons, asset management is becoming an increasingly

important area of decision making for municipal governments. New demands for better service

provision, trends towards decentralized systems of public sector management in emerging

economies, potential synergies and changing roles in the public and private sectors are creating

the need for better management and accountability of municipal resources. A management

information base on assets and their condition which can be regularly updated shall further help

the ULB.

Asset management has many definitions, as per the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)

definition:

“Asset management is a systematic approach of maintaining, upgrading, and operating

physical assets cost effectively. It combines engineering principles with sound business

practices and economic theory, and it provides tools to facilitate a more organized,

logical approach to decision-making. Thus, asset management provides a framework

for handling both short- and long-range planning”

ULB should prepare an asset management plan, which will include an inventory on the existing assets,

prioritization of maintenance and repairs and help decision-makers in optimising investment

strategies which shall in turn improve the quality of services.

Past successful cases of municipal management indicates that effective use of the asset base is an

important factor contributing to increases in municipal revenues and successful performance,

with the value of fixed assets of a municipality increasing to more than four times its yearly

expenditures (400%).

Asset management planning provides optimal solutions which match assets to programs and service

delivery strategies. All decisions should be made keeping that in mind as part of the framework

for decision making in an organization.


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An attempt has been made to provide an inventory of the assets of the municipality in this chapter.

12.2 Benefits of Asset Management

Some of the benefits associated with developing an asset management plan are:

� improved service delivery based on municipal asset use;

� effective management of built assets and increase in revenue base;

� assistance in decision making for resource allocation and maintenance expenses;

� enhance the environment and improve quality of life Improve land valuation (for example,

through relocation of public properties, sale and leases, and improvements in infrastructure

such as better roads) that make land assets attractive for productive and real estate purposes;

� evaluation of the associated risks and impacts, reduction of risks and need of emergency

interventions;

� life cycle analysis of investment decisions

12.3 Asset Management Plan Methodology

Futuristic asset management plan is very necessary for strategy development. The process should

integrate current asset supply to match with the asset demand serving the utility for

infrastructure development. The process diagram (figure 8.1) and the steps have been detailed

below:

Level of Service

� The current assets are evaluated in terms of their functionality, physical condition, use, financial

performance.

� New assets – determine the asset needs for delivering the required level of programs and services.

� Gap analysis – at this level planning will provide a comparison between assets required to support

program/ services and currently available assets or in the process of acquisition. In this manner

the comparison aims to find out the gaps between the requirements and the capacity, the surplus

assets that are not required can be disposed off, and the requirements to be fulfilled.

Decision Making

� Risk assessment: Asses the financial risks and life cycle costs involved in each alternative

considered.

� Optimal cost – The option selected should be most economical based on a techno-economic

feasibility analysis done by the asset mangers or responsible officer in charge.

Implementation


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Assets

Current assets New assets

Inventory & condition analysis

Identification, evaluation & gap

analysis

Level of service

• Asset supply analysis

• Asset demand analysis

• Gaps

Decision making

• Risk assessment

• Optimal cost assessment

The implementation process includes many decisions as mentioned below:

� Maintenance incorporates carrying on routine maintenance, repair and rehabilitation works.

� Renewals and replacements assessment suggests assets which do not meet service levels and need

to be replaced by new assets or revived, refurbished.

� Creation of new assets based on the gap analysis to ensure satisfactory service delivery

considering the economics, timing and capital inflows required.

� Disposal of asset – surplus and obsolete assets can be disposed to create value addition to the total

asset bank.

� Non- asset solutions are like outsourced services, reduced demand for asset can be done by

o Re-designing the service system to maintain with existing assets;

o Employing outsourced equipment and services;

o Increasing the usage of existing assets.

Finally the decision process is performed through working out financial plans, and various plans for

acquisition, disposal etc.

Asset management plan


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12.4 Requirements of Asset Management

There various important aspects for infrastructure assets are

� capital database (inventory);

� maintenance management, service life prediction;

� risk & reliability assessment and

� valuation

� life cycle costing

To accomplish the above, a varied number of techniques/tools are available which can help in

minimizing the maintenance costs and maximise the value of the assets for the municipality.

Some of the techniques/tools are listed below:

12.4.1 Capital database

Preparation of a capital database shall include data collection, usage of consistent terminology, a

consideration of betterment versus maintenance and integration of Geographical GIS and other

tools which have been further elaborated in the sections below.

12.4.2 Maintenance Management

A) Computerised Maintenance Management comprises of two main components: a relational

database containing the asset data, and a set of add-on analysis and decision-support modules.

There are many software available in the market which can help in this regard, a brief glimpse

of a popular model City Works is given below:

CityWorks (2005) is a GIS-based solution for operational and maintenance management of municipal

assets and supports functions including asset data management, work order management,


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recording inspection and condition data, and report generation. It delivers various benefits to

organizations by delivering information to maintenance engineers and managers1.

Stage 1 : User Interface

Stage 2: Selection of Asset Module

1 Manual City Works


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Information provided in the asset module Asset module gives a detailed inventory of the asset with the following entries so that every asset is

recorded and maintained systematically.

Information Provided in the Asset Module

S. No Field Description

1 Asset No. A unique number assigned to an asset.

2 Asset

Descri

ption

Description of the asset.

3 Location Code assigned to a location and its description.

4 Department Code assigned to a department and its description.

5 Asset Category Different types of assets are grouped together under an asset

category. This enables easy management of asset data

and retrieval.

6 Asset Status The current asset status describes which operational state the

asset is in. A code assigned to an asset status and its

description.

Options are:

Active = an asset which is currently in service and on site

In-active = an asset which is not in service

Disposed = an asset which has been taken out of service

permanently.

Lost = an asset which cannot be accounted for in an audit,

therefore no disposable details.

In-storage = an asset which is currently in service but not kept

on site.

7 Criticality Defines the criticality depending on the usage of the

equipment.

8 Authorised

Emplo

yee

An employee who has been given the rights and

accountabilities for that particular asset.

9 Serial Number Enter the serial number of the asset which can be obtained

from the warranty card or on the asset nameplate

10 Manufacturer Enter the manufacturer of the asset in this field.

11 Contractor

Warranty Assets which are within the manufacturer warranty period

Contract Assets which are under service contracts

Warranty

Expiry

Date

Enter the date of the warranty expiry.

Enter additional notes on the warranty or contract, if

applicable

12 Supplier A supplier is a company which supplies the assets.

13 Purchase Current Value

Calculated field based on a linear depreciation rate.

Current Value = Purchase Price – [{(Today’s Date) – (Date

Acquired)}/ Estimated Life]

14 Date Disposed Enter the date when the asset was disposed (if applicable)

B) Engineered Management Systems


CMA, GoTN 140


Using hand held devices for field data entry is effective

and time saving. The case of City of Saco, Maine shows

that there was a 20% cost reduction due to usage of

hand held devices for information recoding regarding

the condition and characteristics of sewer, drains,

pavements, pipe size.

This assigns a Facility Condition Index (FCI) for an asset based on a number of factors including the

number of defects, physical condition and quality of materials or workmanship. With these data

it is possible to predict the FCI well into the future, given the degradation curve and the effect

of remedial action. FCI can be calculated using the formula mentioned below,

FCI = Deferred Maintenance Cost/ Capital Replacement value, If FCI is < 0.05 is good

FCI 0.05 – 0.1 is fair

FCI More than 0.1 is poor

C) Condition Assessment Survey

A Condition Assessment Survey (CAS) is a tool which helps in the decision making by establishing the

existing condition of the asset and aids in producing a benchmark between different types of

asset and also for the same asset at different times. CAS is a tool which records the deficiencies

in a system or component, the extent of the defect, as well as the urgency of the repair work; in

some cases the estimated cost of repair is provided, at the time of inspection, projected,

remaining life and future use. This type of systematic inspection is essential for asset

management as it provides data for the "maintenance management", "service life prediction"

and "risk analysis" enabling technologies, mentioned earlier2.

D) Geographical Information Systems with Asset Management

Software tools are used to support the tracking, analysis, and reporting of asset and related information.

Geographic Information System (GIS) integrates the technical information to geographical

information.

This helps in the efficient management of an asset inventory. GIS enables map-based views of the asset

helps in forming a database relationship between the spatial data in the GIS and details of the

assets and the work performed on these assets, extended graphical display and data analysis

functionality.

Asset-related information can be spatially analyzed to help identify trends or to determine impacts of

proposed operations. Analysis results and trends can be displayed on a map to further assist in

the decision making process.

High Resolution Imagery Quick Bird

Figure. Use of hand held devices for data entry

2 Technical Paper on Municipal Infrastructure Investment Planning: Asset management by D.J. Vanier and N.H.

Danylo


CMA, GoTN 141


Fig 12.3: CityWorks GIS based

Asset Management

System

An

example of application of GIS in India has been given below. Mirzapur Municipality in Uttar

Pradesh is one of the first to use GIS for municipal applications. It started with the purpose of

Property Assessment with the help of the Government of Netherlands and Government of India.

The spatial database has proved useful for many activities and later integrated with the utility

networks. Since its implementation, it had raised the increased the number of property tax

assessments by ten times and tripled its property tax revenue (1995-2000 bases). This was later

expanded to include water supply, street record, street drains, solid waste management (its

distribution network model, vehicle optimization, garbage bin location and staff deployment)

etc. The procedure adopted for the same has been mentioned below3.

• Existing infrastructure water distribution network, street network etc. is added to GIS and

existing paper records were transformed to layers on GIS map.

• Information on various infrastructure components (such as material, condition etc.) is collected

to represent physical proximity of assets so that strategies can be devised while considering

their management plans.

• Update conditions of recently built and mapped facilities

• Establish the mapped location and condition of the vast bulk of the municipal infrastructure

system.

• Considering the urban infrastructures as a single system with relationships between the

different elements.

Map depicting the water supply network

3 Ref: www.mirzapur.net


CMA, GoTN 142


Map depicting the water supply network on GIS

E) Global Positioning Systems

(GPS) technology assists in accurate data collection, precise identification of building or service

locations, calculations of areas and lengths, estimation of building height, and more importantly

the easy, clear and unambiguous documentation of physical location of identified defects and

potential problems.

These techniques represent valuable tools for the municipality to minimise their maintenance costs and

maximise the value of their assets. On the whole, the system will help the local body manage its

own assets in terms of location, land use, litigations, encroachments, property values, revenues

and expenditure.

12.4.3 Risk & Reliability Assessment

Condition assessment and risk and reliability analysis varies from the simple to the complex process

and is not a “one-size fits-all” process. Risk & Reliability analysis gives the probability of an

asset to failure. This can be carried out considering the trends in output of the assets, and life

cycle functioning. The Risk assessment considers various alternatives and risk involved in

ownership of an asset. Effective risk management requires as a first step an inventory of each

class of assets, standardized condition assessment, and a method to evaluate the reliability of

these assets and consequences of unsatisfactory performance.

The reliability assessment aids in decision making for whether the existing assets are in favourable

condition to provide desired or increased level of services and their accountability to the

services in future.


CMA, GoTN 143


12.4.4 Valuation

The various components which need to be considered for valuation are –

� present value of the asset;

� depreciation in the cost of assets;

� costs incurred in the betterment or having a new asset visa-a-vis maintenance of the existing

asset;

� documentation for the purpose of audit;

� capitalization of carrying costs are incurred in the acquisition, construction or development

activity of an asset;

� contributed assets include municipality’s assets contributed by others, including developer

contributed assets, even though these were acquired at no cost to the municipality;

� betterment (new ) vs. maintenance.

12.4.5 Life Cycle Costing

Asset life cycle comprises of different stages – procurement plan, acquisition, operation and disposal.

Life cycle cost assessment gives a holistic cost over these phases so as to integrate the

fragmented costs and give the total expenditure required for the asset’s life cycle and the

components included are:

1. Capital cost – Cost of acquiring an asset. This may also include costs for conducting feasibility

study, tendering etc.

2. Recurrent cost – This includes operating costs for energy, manpower, maintenance, cleaning,

etc.

3. Refurbishment cost – Planned refurbishment or improvement costs, or enhancement cost which

may be a non asset solution leading to reducing capital investment.

4. Disposal cost – It is the cost of disposal and could be significant in some cases like for example

the demolition cost of a building can be greater than its salvage value.

5. Environmental costs – the environmental considerations shall be made while evaluating the

costs of an asset. For example the public transport if not performing as per the environmental

standards they might incur pollution taxes or replaced in parts or as whole.

The relative significance of capital and recurrent costs as a proportion of total life cycle costs will

depend on the nature of the asset. The cost of operating and maintaining an asset over its useful

life often is greater than its acquisition cost. In such cases the use of full life cycle costing in

evaluating alternatives which are imperative to ensure overall program costs are recognized and

minimized.

A typical life cycle cost assessment is given in the diagram below. Year 1 depicts the capital cost, the O

& M expenses begin from Year 2 and drastically increase at Year n if replacement is not done

and the costs incurred are much more than the disposal costs. Environmental costs also added to

the O & M costs increasing the overall O&M costs.


CMA, GoTN 144


12.4.6 Contracting Asset Management

One of the most practiced methods of asset management is private sector participation. Another method

is organizing the framework of local bodies to involve asset management by means of

involvement of professionals or dedicated officers as asset managers while keeping the

municipal authorities in the loop. The two approaches have been described diagrammatically

below.

Approach 1 Approach 2

Municipality Municipality

Asset Management Cell

Physical Works Contract

Physical works Contract

Asset Manager / Executive

Professional Asset Management Consultant


CMA, GoTN 145


PART II- ASSET MANAGEMENT IN VIKRAMSINGAPURAM

12.5 Infrastructure Assets

12.5.1 Water Supply

The water supply system in Vikramsingapuram municipality is in place since 1967. The municipal

water supply assets generally comprise of assets at the head works, treatment plant,

transmission mains, pump rooms, pumping mains, storage tanks, feeder mains, distribution

network including all valves, connections, meters, and quarters for watchmen and all related

facilities.

Presently the water distribution network works through a system of OHTs, underground sump,

treatment plant, and distribution network pumps, hand pumps, open wells comes.

Transmission & Distribution Network

The existing storage system comprise of Ground Level Service Reservoirs (GLSR) at

Vambalanthanparai and Tana and four surface reservoirs with a total capacity of 22.15 lakh

litres.

Table 12.2: Details on Water Supply System

S. No Listing of Asset Nos. Age(years) Condition

1 Overhead Tanks (OHTs) 5 35 Good

2 Underground Sump 1 35 Good

3 Treatment Plant 1 35 Good

4 Distribution Network 2 35 Good

5 Power Pumps 9 30 Good

6 Hand Pumps 118 20 Good

7 Public Fountains 240 30 Good

8 Open Wells 10 25 Good

Source: Municipality, Vikramsingapuram

12.5.2 Solid Waste Management

The details on the various solid waste equipments have been given in the table below. In addition to the

equipments the municipality also has a waste disposal site of 6.84 acres.

Table 8.3 Details of Solid Waste Management

Particulars Description (nos.)

Temporary Waste Storage Points (Dustbins) 142 nos. (100Kg/ bin)

Trolleys (Tipper Auto) 4

Mini Lorries 3

Power Tiller 1


12.5.3 Road & Road Infrastructure


CMA, GoTN 146


Details on the various types of roads are given in the table below. Considering the road density and

other percentage of road length, the present network is highly inadequate for the town.

Table 8.4: Details on Roads

S. No Particulars Description (km)

1 Concrete 19.64

2 Asphalted / Black Top 31.70

3 WBM 0.22

4 Earthen 14.49


12.5.4 Street Lights

The details on the various types of street lights available with the ULB are given below. Automatic

timer fitted street lights instead of manual operation to save power, PPP services for

maintenance and cleaning of pavements can be adopted.

Table 8.5: Number of Lights by Type

S. No Particulars Description (nos.)

1 Incandescent Lamps Nil

2 Tube Lights (Fluorescent Lamps) 1106

3 Sodium Vapor Lamps 149

4 Mercury Lamps 9


12.6 Land, Buildings & Vehicles

Municipality does not maintain any computerized maintenance management system hence keeping a

track and updating of the assets is a problem. The buildings with the municipality can be

classified as remunerative and non-remunerative assets the latter are those which are either

acquired or purchased or gifted on which the municipality incurs considerable expenditure for

operation and maintenance.

The remunerative assets include commercial complexes, shops in the bus stand, markets, slaughter

house, pay & use toilets etc. Non-remunerative assets of the municipality include office

buildings, burial ground, compost yard, etc. A summary of these are presented in the table

below.

Table 8.6: Details on Land, Building and Vehicles

Listing of Asset Description (nos.) Age (years) Condition

Shops 54 10 Good

Markets 1 30 Good

1 10 Good

1 35 Good

1 35 Good

15 35 Good

2 35 Good

3 35 Good

Municipality Building

1 4 Good

Kalyana Mandapams - - -

Solid waste disposal site 6.84 acres 40 Good


CMA, GoTN 147


Community Hall 2 2 -

Movable Furniture 15 20 Good

Table 20 25 Good

Chair 35 30 Good

Telephone 5 25 Good


12.7 Strategies and Recommendations

Asset management is the tool in decision making and shall help in economising the costs. The various

recommendations under the different components have been detailed below:

Water Supply and Sewerage

� Inventory of all the components of water supply and sewerage (length, condition, age, no. of

valves, maintenance history, condition ratings etc.)

� Mapping the network on to GIS. It provides the graphical interface to view asset data directly,

w.r.t its location and corresponding asset related information.

� Validating the information by ground survey using GPS etc.

� This information should also be linked to the existing land use so as to facilitate the

maintenance and repair in a manner without interrupting the neighbourhood regular activities.

Solid Waste Management � Inventory on collection points, transfer station, equipments and schedules and integrating it

with GIS.

� Assessment of equipments based on the level of service and customer satisfaction.

� Assessment of shortest route to disposal site covering all collection points to economise on the

costs, assessing the maximum trips possible and procurement of vehicles accordingly.

� Continuous monitoring is effective in improving the management of assets and level of

services.

Street Lights � Inventory of the streetlights and assigning each of them a code, the code depicting various

attributes such as manufacturer’s name, year of purchase, warranty etc.

� This should be then mapped on GIS as layers which shall help in overall maintenance and

replacement of the street lights on a priority basis and assessment of the cost of shifting to solar

lamps in the longer run.

� Involving the resident welfare association in the maintenance and replacement charges.

� Franchising lighting and street furniture maintenance to private companies.

Roads

� Assign a link number to each road and attributes to every link and prepare digitized GIS maps.

� The attributes which shall be depicted as different layers would include age, material,

construction period, etc.

� Life cycle management plan - This section of road asset management plan identifies the process

required to effectively manage, maintain, renew and upgrade the road assets. It also highlights

the expected future expenditure required to effectively manage the road assets. Past

maintenance records and expenditure is required for life cycle management.

� Roads can further be rated in the ArcGIS database map on various factors such as tear and

shear, cracking, potholes, and tendency to degrade within two years or specified time frame and

preparing a logical and capacity supported strategic plan. This can also help in the financial

analysis of the roads which require repair or replacement on priority basis. This shall also

include the evaluating the cost options and preferred life span of the road, and considerations


CMA, GoTN 148


overlapping with future investments for widening or new projects like diversions, grade

separators while making the allotments.

Land and Building Assets � A detailed inventory of the assets (lands and buildings) and mapping on a GIS map supported

by ground survey.

� Each plot/ building to cover various attributes such as number of floors, use, age, maintenance

charges, rent, revenue generated etc.

� Plotting and marking of vacant lands for the purpose of acquisition and creation of new assets

for public purpose. Involvement of the community or private sector can be considered in this

regard.

� Dilapidated and overburdening building assets should be leased out if the market value of the

structure is anticipated to go down. The economic life of the assets is an important factor in this

respect; when the land value is high and the asset becomes expensive to maintain it is better to

retain the ownership of the land and opt for PPP options to continue the services.

An ideal inventory for asset management is provided in the Part IV. Case Studies of best practices by

ULBs which have successfully implemented Asset Management have been enclosed in Part III.

A separate study is necessary for the purpose of preparing a detailed inventory of land and

infrastructure and land assets to minimise their maintenance costs and maximise the

value of their assets. Creation of maps for all assets will help cross check and update the

necessary information using GIS and GPS systems.


CMA, GoTN 149


PART III- CASE STUDIES

� Case – I

� Solid Waste Management, Park Development and Maintenance, Ahmedabad Municipal

Corporation

� The solid waste management in Bodakdev area of western Ahmedabad was a huge burden on

Bodakdev Nagar Panchayat with 8- 10 tons of waste being generated entailing an expenditure

of Rs. 40,000- 50,000 for collection and disposal. The privatization and PPP model being

adopted for collection changed with the assets being managed by the local body and a private

organization. The Local Govt. played the role of facilitator along with AUDA and other

stakeholders such as resident associations, and even Gram Panchayats. Together they

collaborated to make the city clean and green.

�

Another problem in Bokadev was scarce and ill maintained vacant lands. These reserved lands were

encroached upon or became dump yards. This created unhygienic situations at important

junctions and locations of the city. AUDA initiated partnership with private sector for

developing and maintaining the land parcels designated for open space/recreational and park

development as well as traffic islands.

Park development & Maintenance

Strategies Adopted

• In the new zoning plan, a virtual green belt was developed with private sector participation.

• Up to 5% of all land in the Town Planning Schemes is being earmarked for parks and open

spaces.

• AUDA has identified various pockets of land and traffic islands for development of

parks/gardens.

• Several leading organizations from private sector have been approached to carry out the

development and maintenance of these parks.

• These organizations are required to initially pay a fixed amount to AUDA as token money

based on the area of the plot.

• AUDA carries out the garden development, which has to be maintained by the organization on

yearly contract basis.

• All the maintenance charges including water charges, electricity bills, lighting repairs and

labour wages have to be borne by the private organization.

• In return, the private organizations are entitled to install their booths/stalls and advertising

hoardings at the particular park within the area permitted by AUDA.

• AUDA inspects the maintenance carried out by the private organizations on a regular basis and

the contract is renewed on yearly basis if it is found satisfactory.

� Achievements � Finances are generated to carry out works for improving the environmental conditions.

Dilapidated plots are developed and maintained as green spaces of the city.


CMA, GoTN 150


� Case – II

� Kodinar Municipality: Public Private Partnership Project – River Cleaning, Check Dam

construction, rain water harvesting.

� Situation before the Initiative

• The riverbed of Singoda River, which passes through the center of the city, was used as a

dumping site for the solid waste generated since the past 25 years. This waste formed almost

10-12’ ft deep layer over a stretch of 700m to 800 m lengths and 150m width. This comprised

of organic decomposed waste and silt.

• It created an unhygienic environment in the heart of the city. During monsoons as the sufficient

depth was not available for the river to carry the rainwater, it would overflow into the

surrounding areas, these led to difficulties in ground water recharge.

• The land abutting the riverbed was beginning to be encroached by shanties.

Strategies & Achievements

• The total cost estimated for the project

was Rs. 60 lakhs, of which the major

cost was of excavating the garbage up

to 10 to 12’ by excavators that were to

be rented.

• A retaining wall was built to support

the edges of the river stretch. The

existing wells on the riverbed were

protected during the excavation

activity and deepened later.

• Three percolation wells have been

constructed to increase the ground

water recharge.

• The encroachments (houses & shops) consisting of 32 families were relocated at the land

reserved for EWS housing and provided with houses/shops till the plinth level & provided with

water connection.

Table 8.7: Details on the Kodinar Project

Function Financing Agency Expenditure

Excavating the Garbage Ambuja Cement Foundation 6 lakhs

Protecting the existing wells

and building retaining

wall

Ambuja Cement Foundation 5 lakhs

Relocate 32 families and

provide them with

housing

Kodinar Municipality 10 lakhs

Relocate the shops Kodinar Municipality 10 lakhs

River Deepening Ambuja Cement foundation,

Bilashwar Sugar Mills co-

op society and Kodinar

Municipality

14 lakhs

Source: ICMA website


CMA, GoTN 151


Urban Poor

(20%)

Others

COMPOSITION OF

ECONOMIC CLASSES

BPL

WATER SANITATION ROADS SOCIAL

INFRASTRUCTURE

DRAINS

Non Poor

HERITAGE

CORE AREAS

Non Poor Non Poor Non Poor

Non Poor

Poor Poor

Poor Poor Poor

Non Poor Poor

CDP

VISION

STEPS TO TACKLE

DEVELOPMENT OPTIONS

INVESTMENTS

POLICY REFORM

TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE

ON GROUND

REALITIES

CIVIL SOCIETY

PARTNERSHIP A

C

B

D

ASPECTS AND ISSUES IN CDP PREPARATION Annexure-1

TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE

• Architectural & Engineering Design

• Service performance and Demand

Surveys

• Energy and Water Audits

• Shadow Credit Ratings and

Development Finance Services

• GIS

• e-governance

• Disaster Preparedness

• Project Costing

• Funds

• Maintenance

• Collections


CMA, GoTN 152


? Property Tax? GIS? Info Kiosk?

User Charges? E-Governance?

Other

Core Infrastructure

Public Private

Partnership Municipality

? ?

OPTIONS

CDP

Interface

Government

G

CDP F

Govt. (Plan Making and Implementation)

dia

logue

Time START

CONTNUING DIALOGUE

RESETTLE ? FORM HOUSING

SLUM

COOPERATIVE?

BUILD

COMMUNITY

HALLS?

? INVEST IN

BUILD ROADS?

FORM AN EQUITY SHARE

HOLDING COMPANY?

ACQUIRE EQUIPMENTS?

OUTSOURCE TECHNICAL CONSTRUCTION

SERVICES?

H

EMOTIONALLY INVEST BY RICH RESIDENTS

VOLUNTARISM? FUNDS? CHARITIES? TECHNICALLY?.......................

E

I

J

K

MUNICIPALITY TASK

ENHANCING REVENUES

LEVERAGING FUNDS

Citizen

Annexure - 1 (Cont…d)


CMA, GoTN 153


PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

Say Sanitation Program

Up to end of 1st decade

Up to end of 3rd

decade

Up to end of 2nd

decade

50 % Sanitation

75 % Sanitation

100 % Sanitation

From

From 0 Sanitation 33 % Septic Tank 66% Community

Toilet

30% septic 20% community

Toilets


toilet


Toilet

DEVELOPMENT MODELS ? GOVT

only

PPP PVT

only

CBO’s

only

ASSESSMENT STUDIES MUNICIPALITY STRUCTURAL AND

LEGAL

CLARITY OF VISION

AND MISSION

Funds

Functions

Functionaries

Laws

Schemes

Techniques

• Land

• Urban Development

• Infrastructure Development

• Business Development

• Transport/ Road network

• Sustainability / greens

• Urban Poor

Jobs

Houses

Services

• Culture and Heritage

N

Source: IPE

L

PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

Say Sanitation Program

Up to end of 1st decade

Up to end of 3rd

decade

Up to end of 2nd

decade

50 % Sanitation

75 % Sanitation

100 % Sanitation

From

From 0 Sanitation 33 % Septic Tank 66% Community

Toilet


Toilets


toilet


Toilet

DEVELOPMENT MODELS ?

M

Annexure – 2

Scope of Work The

detailed scope of work as envisaged by Commissionerate of Municipal Administration is stated

as follows:

Annexure - 1 (Cont…d)


CMA, GoTN 154


(a) Study of existing setup of ULB and an analysis of various projects executed or taken in hand to

formulate the background. The CDP should have future vision for the city in light of its

strengths and weaknesses.

(b) Situation analysis, with regard to demographic and economic trends in the ULB and their

implications for ULB governance and service delivery systems and structures referring to the

jurisdiction of town level agencies involved in provision and regulation of urban public services

(i.e. water supply, sewerage, sanitation, solid waste management, road network, urban

transport, street lighting, redevelopment of inner (old) city area of the town, basic services to

urban poor and other social infrastructure). The financial status of the municipality and

agencies concerned with service provision including an analysis of their credit worthiness and

efficiency of the institutional framework.

(c) A future perspective for the town area clearly showing the direction of change as well as

economic and basic services vision. (Sectoral agenda, reform agenda, quality of life, urban

services, social inclusion etc).

(d) Alternatives and development strategies for economic development, governance, landuse, urban

poor, core municipal infrastructure, urban environment and cultural heritage with proper

prioritization criteria and linkage with Reform Agendas. Preparation of a phased action plan

with targets for physical and financial investments, reforms, capacity building project

identification and prioritization.

(e) Assess the demand for the projects listed out by these Municipalities and anlayse demand for the

next 25-30 years.

(f) Financial Assessment of the ULBs an assessment of local finances (past 5 years) in terms of

sources and uses of funds, base and basis of levy, revision history and impacts. State

assignments and transfers base and basis of transfer and its predictability; uses of funds

outstanding liabilities (loans, power dues, pension etc.) and, a review of revenue and service

management arrangements. Levels of service, coverage and quality of municipal services in

both poor and non-poor localities. Staffing and management arrangements in delivery of

services.

(g) Outline the issues of revenue realization, quality of existing assets in relation to service levels and

coverage, and institutional constraints. Develop quick indicators of performance, based on –

• Current coverage and additional population in the medium term (10 years) and unit

costs, indicate town level investment requirement for upgradation of infrastructure.

• To improve service coverage and asset quality.

(h) Preparation of comprehensive Asset Management Plan and use fiscal notes policy analysis to

assist in making informed investment choices to achieve sector/ city goals.

(i) Define priority assets and indicative costs of rehabilitation.

(j) Conduct fiscal impact analysis of investments: life cycle O&M costs, revenues from project, and

costs/ impacts on finances and of not doing the project

(k) Explore funding options for rehabilitation of facilities.

(l) Prepare a Financial and Operating Plan (FOP). The FOP is a medium term framework of the

ULBs, and shall present the following.

(m) Assess the impact of upgrading these as municipalities from town panchayats.

� Additional data to be collected :

� Break-up of energy cost on water supply, street lighting and other EB charges etc.

� Salary for all the departments including staff and payments to private operators

� Finding out the benchmark cost i.e. at ideal condition what will be the cost of the

identified investments, a table indicating the investment plan for nest 5 years with identified

source of finance.

� Areas of reduction of expenditure:

� Energy audit resulting in savings in energy.

� Leak detection resulting either in connections or in the tariff (or) maintaining the same

supply and achieving a reduction in energy cost.


CMA, GoTN 155


� Privatizing the MSW collection and identifying a BoT operator for eliminating,

composting etc. items for revenue can be identified.

� Laying of cement concrete road/ fly ash and savings on maintenance cost resulting in

increasing operating surplus.

� Water recycling/ reuse.

� Rejuvenation of tanks and reduction of cost/ liters of water produced

� Privatisation and option for revenue rising.

� Options for increasing the revenues through non-traditional methods including land

development for raising revenue (not the traditional commercial complexes) and suggestions

for improvement of revenues.

(n) Initiate consultations with council and local stakeholders on the priorities; redefine priorities

(rerun FOP if required) and work with the Council to resolve on adoption of the City’s FOP and

CCP actions.

(o) Draft Report and Final Reports are proposed to be presented to the Council.

(p) Finalize Action Plan for the Town, with a resolution from the Council on the priorities and

commitment to implement revenue and management improvement measures.

(q) To prepare MoU between ULB and State Level Nodal Agency to implement UIDSSMT/ IHSDP.

(r) To assist and encourage full participation and formulate consensus within the town to arrive at an

adequate, appropriate and agreed strategy. The objective of this assistance is to ensure that the

process receives adequate and appropriate methodological and technical guidance in examining

the full range of environmental, social, economic and health issues in the city and through

communication, consultation and consensus building.

(s) To review all studies, plans and previous experience in the town, government, quasi- or non-

government, academic or private sector. This will include economic development, urban and

financial management, environmental protection, municipal service delivery, slum

improvement, social development and any other relevant initiatives or studies.

(t) To analyze findings and draw out useful lessons to inform the Action Plan. The process shall

primarily focus upon the areas of concern that emerge out of the CDP process. Indicative focus

areas are:

� Urban Economic Development

� Social Assessment

� Urban Infrastructure

� Human Resources and Institutional Issues

� Financial Management

� Urban Performance Indicator

� Environmental Management

At all stages, the consultants will have to encourage the institutionalization of the planning

methodologies and processes in the ULBs. This includes identifying and working alongside

counterparts, involving and supporting stakeholders in the working with new methodologies,

assisting the management of the process and building constructive relationships with key

stakeholders. This must be followed with proper documentation.

Annexure - 3

Minutes of the Multi-Stakeholder Workshop on CDP for Visioning Exercise for

Vikramasingapuram Municipality, Tirunelveli Region

A. Agenda of the

Meeting

: Formulation of Consensus on Vision for the Town of

Vikramasingapuram for preparation of CDP and Identification

of key areas of concern for sustainable development of the

town.


CMA, GoTN 156


B. Venue : AVSR Kalyana Mandapam, Vikramasingapuram

C. Date & Time : 21st September, 2007

D. Workshop

Participa

nts

: 1. Mr. Murugan, Executive Officer

2. Mr. S.P Mariyappan, Chairperson

3. Mr. K. Venkatachalam, Councilor

4. Mr. S.Rajendran, Councilor,

5. Mr. S.Papanasan, Councilor

6. Mr. G. sornamari, Councilor

7. Mrs. T. Gajalakshmi, Councilor

8. Mrs. A. Selvi, Councilor

9. Mrs. P. Chandra, Councilor.

10. Mrs. M. Meenakumari, Councilor.

11. Mrs. G. Sankari, President of Akashayaram Group.

12. Mrs. G. Uma, Secertary of Akashayaram Group

13. Mr. P. Kanagaraj, President of Vendors Association

14. Other Council Members and Citizens

E. IPE Project

Team

1. Dr. Veena Garella, Senior Urban Planner

2. Ms. Shilpi Raonka, Project Coordinator

3. Mr. Thomas Findo, Municipal Finance-Analyst

4. Ms. Kanmani, Associate Consultant

5. Mrs. Kavitha, Associate Consultant

F. Workshop Proceedings

The Multi-Stakeholder Workshop held at AVSR Kalyana Mandapam, Vikramasingapuram was

attended by the eminent citizens of the town including elected representatives, Municipality

Staff, Professors, Teachers, Government Officials etc.

The workshop started with the Welcome Address of the Chairperson of the municipality He introduced

IPE team and requested IPE officials to make a presentation before starting the discussions.

Giving an overview of CDP, IPE officials explained in detail the purpose and importance of

multi-stakeholders workshop in preparation of CDP. The workshop proceeded by seeking

valuable suggestions for improving infrastructure facilities, opinions for future development

and their proposed approach to accelerate local economic growth. Participants were also asked

to put forward their vision for the town in 30 years perspective.

Following data/ information summarized as below was provided by various town representatives during

the workshop.

1. General Vikramasingapuram Municipality was upgraded to Grade III Municipality in the year 2004.

Vikramasingapuram has 38.57 sq. kms area under its jurisprudence. It has 21 administrative

wards. The estimated present population of Vikramasingapuram is approx. 55 thousands as

against 48,309 persons as per 2001 census.

2. On Going Projects & Their Status

Following DPR have been prepared for the municipality:

• Prepared DPR for water supply scheme for the estimated cost of Rs. 1.96 crores.

• Prepared DPR for slum improvement under Integrated Housing Slum Development Programme

Scheme.

• Prepared DPR for Tourism development.


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3. Suggestions from Citizens & Officials of Vikramasingapuram Town

Following sectoral issues came forward during the discussions:

3.1 Water supply

� Water Supply scheme executed in 1972 is not adequate to meet the demand of growing population.

Andhence an additional water supply schemes should be designed and executed immediately.

� Additional requirement of OHTs, Hand pumps

� OHT has to be constructed near lower dam area which can supply water using gravity.

3.2 Under Ground Drainage � Demand for under ground drainage facilities.

3.3 Tourism � Tourism Development Fund has been rejected by the ULB and given back to the Forest

Department.

� Inadequacy of tourist infrastructure facilities includes lack of dressing room, recreation space etc.,

at Agasthiyar falls.

� Municipal boundary should be extended beyond the forest boundary and could be developed into

Zoological Park.

3.4 Industries

� Lack of industries in the area resulting in lack of employment opportunities due to the out migration

of people.

� Previously, Madura Coats had 12,000 labourers now; it has been downsized to 1,000 labourers only

due to advancement in technologies.

� Women should be empowered by providing income generating training that generates income like

embroidery work, tailoring classes, computer classes.

3.5 Roads � Road improvement works need to be taken up like all mud roads should be converted into surface

roads, roads in few wards need to be widened.

� Road leading to Trivandrum is just 40 km through Agasthiyar Falls but forest department, has

restricted the traffic beyond falls. Hence people have to travel 100 km for Trivandrum that

creates hindrance easy flow of business.

� Flood relief should be provided for citizens of Pappankulam and improve its road.

� Lack of railway network.

3.6 Recreation

� Development of Parks and Playgrounds around Agasthiyar falls which invites visitors 365 days a

year.

3.7 Sanitation and Water bodies � Water bodies should be preserved at any cost.

� Subsidy should be given for constructing individual septic tanks for low income groups.

� Construction of public conveniences for BPL population.

3.8 Streetlights � Some wards do not have proper streetlights resulting in frequent theft problems.

� Inadequacy of High mast lamps.

3.9 Social Infrastructure � Renovation of Primary Health Center.


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3.10 Others

� Lack of Electric Crematorium.

� Lack of Shopping Complexes

� Increase the Municipal Sanitary Workers.

# # #


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Annexure -3 Continued…

Minutes of the Review Committee Meeting on Inception Reports on CDP for Grade III

Municipal Towns in Madurai & Tirunelveli Regions held on 16th

October ,2007 at the

Conference Hall of Madurai Corporation.

The Review Committee Meeting on Inception Reports on CDP for Grade III Municipal Towns in

Madurai & Tirunelveli Regions was held on 16th October, 2007 at the Conference Hall of

Madurai Corporation, Madurai.

Thiru. Hitesh Kumar Makwana, I.A.S. Joint Commissioner of Municipal Administration (JCMA)

chaired the session. RDMAs of Madurai & Tirunelveli regions, Regional Executive Engineers,

Chairpersons and Executive Officers of Grade-III municipal towns, Overseers,

Representatives from DTCP, and TNUIFSL and IPE professionals attended the Review

meeting. The list of participants attended the Review Meeting is given Annexure.

Welcoming the Participants, the JCMA explained the significance of preparation of CDPs for the

municipalities as the Hon’ ble Minister for Local Administration during the Budget speech

for the year 2007-08 announced that CDPs would be prepared for all ULBs in a phased manner.

Further, the JCMA explained the key components of CDP including perspective plan,

Consultation with stake holders of development thro’ city opinion forms, regional workshop,

Demand Assessment of Infrastructure facilities for the towns, prioritization of identified

projects, 5-years capital invest programmes, funding mechanisms and a participatory

approach in preparation and implementation of CDPs and urban reforms.

Following this, IPE consultants made a presentation on the Inception report in four parts for the 10

Grade III municipal Towns (Anaiyur, Avaniapuram, Thiruparangkundram, Gudalur,

Rameshwaram and Keelakatalai Grade - III Municipal Towns in Madurai Region and

Vikramsinghapuram, Ambasamudhram, Kayalapattinam and Thiruthangal in Tirunelveli

Region) in as detailed below:

Part-I : Brief On the CDP Initiative

Part-II : City Images for 10 towns

Part III: Data Analysis –ULBs Comparative Picture

Part IV: Future Perspective & Vision

Following the presentation, the participants discussed various issues and sought clarification. The

JCMA and consultants clarified issues. The following are the record note of the discussion

during the Review Meeting:

• Regarding growth of population, the consultants should not project the population of the towns

for the plan period based on the existing trend. The urbanization trend in the region must be

taken into account.

• Stake holders’ meetings should be conducted in each municipality and regional workshop be

conducted at regional level for better participation of the stakeholders. At the regional

workshop, officers from PWD, TWAD, Highway & Rural works should be invited. It would be

better to hold the workshop under District Administration.

• The City opinion form must be collected from a cross-section of the society including NGOs,

residential association, Local Chamber of Commerce and Industry and economically weaker

section of the town.

• Study of Urban Performance Indicators should form part of the study report.

• At each stage the municipal council must be consulted and the Draft Final Report and Final

report must be approved by the Council.

• The employment opportunities, social infrastructure are to be assessed in each town not only

for the present and future population and provision of physical & social infrastructure should be

considered at the specific ULB level to meet the present and future demands.

• The revenue enhancement through new initiatives and also finding the new Remunerative

projects in these ULBs should be explored. The opportunities of optimum utilization of

municipal assets should be examined.


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• Capacity building and Institutional Strengthening component for the ULBs need to be critically

considered in the next draft. The present strength of ULB staff and post vacant must be high

lighted in the next report. The three towns namely Anaiyur, Avaniyapuram &

Thiruparankundram report are under JNNURM. The CDPs for the three towns should take into

account the proposals contemplated in the CDP for Madurai City.

• The ULBs should take initiatives to achieve House Service Connections for 75% of the

Properties from the present level.

• The consultant may look into the cash flow statements adopted by TUFIDCO for appraising the

projects for financial evaluation.

• While formulating projects under ULBs, projects for integrated development of the region may

also be also considered.

• CDPs prepared for Grade-III municipalities by consultants, will be posed to multiple agencies

for funding various projects, and not necessarily under UIDSSMT Programme, so one should

not transfer the message to ULBs contribution being limited to 10 per cent only. In reality, the

contribution of ULB may be floating depending upon the scheme and funding agencies.

• With regard to lack of updated maps of the project towns, it was informed that GIS Maps of the

outgrowths of Madurai city like Anaiyur, Avaniyapuram Thirupparankundram has been given

to another consultant and that they are expected to start their work from 1st Nov, 2007. The

same would be available through O/o CMA after Nov 2007. For other towns, Local Planning

Area (LPA) maps could be collected from the Office of Local Planning Authorities / Regional

offices of Dept of Town & Country Planning and customised as per the requirement.

• A copy of approved CDP of Madurai was given to the consultant and IPE project team was

requested to take into consideration the proposal of CDP for Anaiyur, Avaniyapuram,

Thirupparankundram towns as they will be accessing funds primarily under JNNURM

Programme of Government of India, being the urban outgrowths of Corporation of Madurai.

• IPE was requested to recheck the authenticity of the infrastructure related data provided by

ULBs based on their past experiences.

• The project team to collect details of the land resources available with ULBs, especially the

unutilized and vacant land.

• Regarding the ULB financial positions, it was stated that the Grade-III municipalities might

show good share of revenue income but, in reality it may not be the case, as better figures

enable them to access the loan 4 times their revenue income.

• IPE project team was asked to include implementation framework, strategies for prioritized

project, institutional strengthening and capacity building measures for ULBs, and urban

reforms in the CDP.

• It was asked to collect data on existing staffing pattern and propose institutional framework in

light of 73rd

and 74th Constitutional Amendment Act. With regard to existing staffing pattern in

Grade-III municipalities copy of the past ‘Government Orders’ may be collected for reference.

• It was requested to enhance public participation in preparation of CDPs by holding intensive

Focused Group Discussions with various stakeholder groups in respective project towns.

• Rural/ Ethnic Tourism could be promoted in the towns which has good potential for the same.

• Realistic estimates could be made wherever data gaps exist in the municipalities based on

available urban standards.

• IPE project team was asked to hold a separate meeting with TNUIFSL to identify about the

projects/ proposals in the towns/taluks/ district under consideration and the projects should also

be taken into consideration, while preparation of City Investment Plan.

• The presentation made by IPE on classifications of towns on homogenous geographical

characteristics and asked to continue with matrix method for comparing various urban

indicators across the towns of same homogenous geographical characteristics.

The consultants should restrict the scope of the study as per the TOR. However they are free to indicate

the project for detailed study and preparation of DPR like


CMA, GoTN 161


i. Improve Transport infrastructure, Core city improvement, main arteries, bus stand,

bus shelters, landscaping etc.

ii. Organize public-private land development entities at the town level which will operate as

real estate units for implementing development & renewal with participation of Local

community and private enterprise.

iii. Develop a system of Industrial Areas limited to medium size, clean and safe manufactures

iv. Develop Green areas, large and small as well as linear parks interconnecting neighborhoods

along selected streets, Community spaces which serve as focus of Residential areas.

v. Enhance Cultural / Heritage areas and promote tourism Develop on unique natural heritage

advantages.

The JCMA requested the DD Town & Country Planning, RDMAs and Executive Officers of the

municipalities to cooperate with the consultants in providing maps, data particularly the land

and building register and list of land and buildings owned by the local bodies and organising

the consultative meetings to make the CDP reports pragmatic and realistic.

The meeting was concluded thanking the participants for active participation.

The presentation made by IPE project team was appreciated. The inception report presented by

the Consultant is accepted with above remarks.

Sd./Hitesh Kumar Makwana, I.A.S.,

Joint Commissioner of Administration


CMA, GoTN 162


Annexure – 4 (Map 10 & 11)

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CMA, GoTN 163


Annexure – 4 (Map 14)


CMA, GoTN 164


Annexure - 5

Note on Feasibility Fund

The term has been drawn from the “Community Planning Handbook”, authored by Nick Wates, (2000)

Earthscan Publications Ltd., and the book has been generously used in Action Planning

exercises in several countries including India.

“Feasibility Funds provide money to community organizations for paying experts to undertake

feasibility studies on possible projects. They are a highly effective way of kick starting local

initiatives by getting projects to a stage where they can attract capital funding and support”

Steps

• Fund is established by a suitable professional institute, local regional-or national organization.

Sponsors may include companies, local authorities, government departments or charities

• Scheme is advertised, community groups invited to apply for funding

• Grants are awarded. Feasibility studies undertaken. Study establishes if they are workable ideas,

best options and costs

• If projects succeed in attracting capital funding, the grant money is repaid to the organising body

- Funds as these, help communities to get involved and have a say in generating something

for themselves

- Projects undertaken : Community centres, Education facilities, Employment spaces,

Housing (new/improving) landscaping, leisure, (sports / youth clubs / cultural centres)

vikramasingapuram

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