Tamil Nadu to build new Rs 1,200-crore Secretariat and Assembly complex

The Tamil Nadu government has issued a Government Order (GO) to construct a new Secretariat and Legislative Assembly complex at an estimated cost of Rs 1,200 crore. The proposed structure will feature a built-up area of 20 lakh square feet and is planned for a site spanning approximately 25.55 acres in the Mylapore town area, specifically identified in Foreshore Estate, also known as Pattinapakkam.

The land for the project will be sourced from several departments, including the Tamil Nadu Housing Board, the Greater Chennai Corporation, and the Revenue Department. Once the new complex is completed, the existing Fort St George building, which currently houses the Secretariat, is intended to be conserved as a heritage structure.

The Public Works Department has been directed to submit a detailed project report and cost estimates within three months. Additionally, three committees have been established to select an architectural firm and finalize the designs. The project follows several previous attempts by past chief ministers to relocate the seat of power from the historic Fort St George due to space constraints and modernization needs.