The Tamil Nadu government is planning to launch an AI-enabled planning approval system, known as Single Platform for Efficient Expedited Development (SPEED), within six to seven months to streamline building permissions and reduce delays. The tender process for developing the platform is expected to begin this month, followed by the appointment of a consultant to design the software. The system aims to minimise human intervention in granting planning approvals and improve transparency in the process. SPEED is expected to integrate planning authorities, urban local bodies and rural local bodies on a common digital platform. It will also help coordinate site inspections by different departments on a single date, reducing repeated visits and saving time for applicants. The government has allocated Rs 40 crore for the initiative. The state government is also planning to introduce an online portal for land-use reclassification. Once the period for submitting objections and suggestions ends, applications will automatically move to the processing stage. In addition, the government is consulting the relevant department on increasing the permissible height of buildings, which could influence future construction and development regulations. Meanwhile, preparations are underway for the Third Master Plan for the expanded Chennai Metropolitan Area, covering approximately 5,904 square kilometres. Sixteen sectoral studies have been completed, and an international consultant is expected to review the studies and prepare a comprehensive development plan. The government is also examining amendments to existing rules before deciding the powers of proposed urban development authorities in Coimbatore, Madurai and other cities. The real estate industry has also called for faster decisions on Chennai's proposed second airport site and greater accountability for delays in major infrastructure projects, including the Chennai Port–Maduravoyal elevated corridor and the Anna Salai flyover. The proposed SPEED system is expected to simplify building approval procedures, improve coordination between departments and support more efficient real estate development across Tamil Nadu.