Impacts of climate change actions on property rights: a case of red hills, Chennai

Abstract

The thesis, titled " Impacts of Climate Change Actions on Property Rights: A Case of Red Hills, Chennai," examines the intricate relationship between climate change and property rights, exploring the multifaceted impacts of environmental changes on land use, property ownership, and governance. The study is motivated by two critical dimensions: first, the effects of statutory restrictions, such as buffer zones around water bodies, on real estate markets and property values; and second, the displacement and vulnerability of communities due to climate-induced impacts or regulatory interventions. The research seeks to provide a comprehensive analysis of how climate change reshapes property rights, emphasizing the socio-economic and legal consequences in both urban and rural contexts. The methodology adopts a mixed-method approach, combining qualitative and quantitative analyses. Case studies of specific regions, such as buffer zones around water bodies, floodplains, and urban expansion areas, are employed to understand localized impacts. Geographic Information System (GIS)-based spatial analyses are used to identify climate risk zones and assess their influence on land use and property rights. Secondary data sources, including government reports, climate action plans, and legal documents, are complemented by primary data collected through interviews with stakeholders such as policymakers, real estate professionals, and affected communities. The findings reveal a dual impact of climate change on property rights. On the one hand, environmental regulations aimed at mitigation, such as restrictions on land use in buffer zones, lead to decreased property values, legal disputes, and financial losses for property owners. On the other hand, climate-induced events, such as floods and droughts, exacerbate land tenure conflicts and displace vulnerable communities, exposing gaps in governance and policy implementation. The study also highlights that existing legal frameworks often fail to adequately protect the rights of marginalized groups, particularly in disaster-prone areas. This research underscores the need for integrative policies that balance climate adaptation measures with equitable property rights protection. Proposed solutions include revising zoning regulations, adopting TDR schemes, tenure responsive land use Planning and leveraging GIS-based tools for transparent land administration. The study also advocates for the implementation of social safeguards, such as compensation mechanisms and resettlement programs, to address the challenges faced by displaced communities. By bridging the gap between climate change, property rights, and governance, this thesis contributes to the discourse on sustainable urban and regional planning. It offers actionable insights for policymakers, urban planners, and legal practitioners to navigate the complex interplay of environmental change and property governance, ensuring resilience and equity in an era of accelerating climate risks. Keywords: Climate Action Plan, Property Rights, Housing Rights, Real Estate