Sholinganallur, once primarily known as a haven for IT professionals, is undergoing a remarkable transformation. Positioned along the bustling Old Mahabalipuram Road (OMR) corridor in South Chennai, the area is witnessing an influx of high-end residential projects. By next year, over 5,000 units in high-rise buildings will be added to the market, catering to both IT and non-IT buyers. As the real estate boom accelerates, especially with enhanced metro connectivity, Sholinganallur is rapidly becoming a preferred choice for homebuyers, particularly from nearby areas like East Coast Road (ECR).
Over the past few years, the Sholinganallur real estate market has exhibited impressive growth. Between 2018 and Q3 of 2024, approximately 8,300 residential units were launched, with 69% still under construction. This surge reflects a steady demand, especially in the mid-segment price range of Rs 40 lakh to Rs 80 lakh, which accounted for 66% of new launches. However, a shift is also visible, with demand now growing for more luxurious properties priced between Rs 1 crore to Rs 2.5 crore. This upward trend signals that Sholinganallur is evolving beyond its IT-centric identity to attract a broader range of buyers.
Despite the growth, residents are voicing concerns about the local infrastructure. While Sholinganallur was integrated into the Greater Chennai Corporation 13 years ago, critical issues like inadequate water supply, sewage connections, and roads remain unresolved. “The infrastructure hasn’t kept pace with the area’s rapid development, and there’s a growing need for better sewage and water systems,” said D. Raman, President of the Confederation Sholinganallur Residents Welfare Association. Furthermore, the absence of underground power lines has caused frequent accidents, highlighting the need for urban planning reforms to match the area’s development.
From a sustainability perspective, Sholinganallur’s rapid expansion raises questions about the environmental impact of new high-rise developments. While the demand for modern, spacious apartments remains high, the challenge lies in ensuring that the local infrastructure and environment can support such growth. Urban planners must focus on integrating sustainable practices, such as eco-friendly construction materials, water conservation systems, and waste management, to ensure that Sholinganallur’s future remains balanced between development and environmental responsibility.
Sholinganallur’s real estate boom is undoubtedly a success story of urban expansion, yet the growing pains of the locality are evident. The push for more residential units must be coupled with urgent infrastructural upgrades to ensure long-term sustainability and quality of life for residents.
