Shared infrastructure elements are essential components of any parcel subdivision plan, especially for commercial development. These elements ensure that every parcel within the subdivision has reliable access, utilities, and functional integration with public services. Local planning authorities typically mandate the inclusion and proper design of these shared systems before approving the layout.
1. Internal Road Network
- A well-defined road system must connect all parcels to the main access road or public right-of-way.
- Road widths vary by zoning, typically:
- 9–12 meters for internal access roads
- 18–24 meters for collector or arterial routes
- 9–12 meters for internal access roads
- Roads must support two-way traffic, emergency vehicles, and delivery access.
- Provisions for curbs, footpaths, medians, and signage are often required.
- Turning radii, cul-de-sacs, and entry/exit points must meet municipal standards.
2. Stormwater Drainage Systems
- An integrated drainage system must manage surface runoff across all plots.
- Infrastructure may include:
- Underground stormwater pipes
- Surface drains along roads
- Recharge pits or detention basins
- Underground stormwater pipes
- Drainage design should be based on site grading and rainfall data.
- Each parcel must be free of pooling or flood risk from shared runoff.
3. Water Supply Network
- A common pipeline system must provide potable water to all subdivided plots.
- Includes:
- Trunk mains from municipal or borewell sources
- Distribution lines along internal roads
- Water meters, overhead tanks, or underground reservoirs
- Trunk mains from municipal or borewell sources
- Designed for future demand expansion and fire safety compliance.
- Easement paths must be reserved for pipeline maintenance.
4. Sewage and Wastewater Disposal
- Shared underground sewer lines must connect all parcels to a treatment facility or municipal line.
- Septic systems may be allowed in areas without centralized sewerage, subject to environmental clearance.
- Infrastructure includes:
- Inspection chambers
- Manholes and pumping stations (if gravity flow is insufficient)
- Treated effluent discharge systems or reuse loops
- Inspection chambers
- Compliance with pollution control board standards is mandatory.
5. Power Supply and Communication Lines
- Shared electrical infrastructure must include:
- Transformer yards or substations
- Underground or overhead distribution lines
- Street lighting along internal roads
- Transformer yards or substations
- Right-of-way for cabling must be integrated into the layout.
- Ducts or conduits may also be laid for fiber optic, telephone, and internet access.
In addition to these primary systems, planning authorities may require:
- Garbage collection zones or waste management enclosures
- Open space reservations (parks, green buffers)
- Fire hydrants and safety provisions in commercial layouts
Planning these shared infrastructure elements up front ensures compliance, streamlines the subdivision approval process, and enhances the long-term market value and utility of each parcel. Developers are typically required to either construct this infrastructure themselves or contribute to a development charge or infrastructure escrow managed by the local authority.
