Indian Real Estate

All about GCDA or Greater Cochin Development Authority


10, January 2026

Today let's talk about another one of the top regulatory bodies of real estate in India. Enter GCDA or Greater Cochin Development Authority, Kochi, Kerala.

What is GCDA?

GCDA is the civic planning and regulatory authority overseeing the development of the Kochi metro city, Kerala's chief commercial hub.

The GCDA, or Greater Cochin Development Authority, is one of the prominent civic planning authorities of the country that spearheads the development of one of India's most important port cities and upcoming metropolitan urban spaces.

GCDA takes care of the development of the regions of Kochi Municipal Corporation, Greater Cochin areas, and surrounding municipalities such as

  • Thrikkakara

  • Thripunithara

  • Aluva

  • Angamaly

  • Kalamaserry

  • Maradu

  • Varapuzha

  • Kaloor

  • North Paravur

  • Perumbavoor

Along with the Greater Cochin Development Authority, there also exists another body known as GIDA or Goshree Islands Development Authority, which was formed in 1994 and oversees the civic developments in Vypin Island, Bolgatty Mulavukadu Islands, Vallarpadam, Kadamkudy, etc.

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Responsibilities of GCDA

GCDA was the very first body created for urban development in Kerala. As mentioned, the agency or body is responsible for civic planning, housing, and regulating the construction of residential and commercial ventures in the city of Kochi.

Here's an overview of Responsibilities of GCDA:

Urban Planning: The Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) is responsible for designing Greater Cochin's urban landscape. Through comprehensive urban planning efforts, the GCDA creates comprehensive master plans and zoning rules that serve as blueprints for the region's growth and development. These plans take into account elements such as land use, infrastructure development, transportation networks, and environmental sustainability, ensuring that Greater Cochin grows into a well-organized and lively city. By anticipating future demands and obstacles, the GCDA's urban planning activities help to ensure the region's long-term viability and prosperity.

Infrastructure Development: The Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) is a key player in shaping the region's infrastructure. The authority methodically prepares and implements several infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, water supply systems, and sewage treatment plants. This holistic approach enables efficient movement of people and commodities, as well as adequate access to clean water and sanitary services, all of which contribute to Greater Cochin's general development and well-being.

Land Acquisition: The Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) has the responsibility of procuring land for various development projects, guaranteeing appropriate land availability to fulfill the increasing demands of urban expansion and infrastructure development. This strategic land purchase procedure allows the GCDA to carry out comprehensive plans for residential neighborhoods, business zones, industrial parks, and transportation corridors. By proactively securing land, the GCDA creates the groundwork for sustainable and well-planned urban growth, which contributes to Greater Cochin's overall development and prosperity.

Housing Development: The Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) understands the important role of affordable housing in creating a sustainable and equitable urban environment. To meet the growing need for residential accommodation, the GCDA actively supports affordable housing schemes and creates housing projects for people of all income levels. The GCDA's goal is to develop inclusive communities and improve the overall quality of life for Greater Cochin inhabitants by providing access to high-quality, affordable housing.

Environmental Protection: The Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) emphasizes the critical role of environmental protection and pollution control. As a responsible urban development authority, the GCDA actively works to preserve the region's natural resources and maintain a healthy ecological balance. The GCDA works to provide its citizens with a sustainable and environmentally friendly urban environment through initiatives such as afforestation programs, trash management methods, and pollution monitoring.

Major Projects of GCDA

The Marine Drive, Kochi, is the biggest milestone of GCDA. The current Marine Drive, including Marine Walkway, Rainbow Bridge, and China Net Bridge, are the favourites for tourists and natives alike and are the feats of GCDA.

The GCDA is a development authority that focus on water front developments in Cochin municipality. Apart from the Marine Drive in Kochi, one of the most renowned infrastructural developments in the face of Kochi.

Then came the Kochi Metro, which is not under the authority of GCDA, yet was one of the life-changing developments that occurred in Kochi.

Along with them

  • GCDA Shopping Complex on Marine Drive

  • The Asoka-Tharangini Apartments

  • Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium

  • Ambedkar Stadium

  • Panambily Nagar

  • Gandhi Nagar

  • KK Road

  • Changambpuzha Park

  • Mattancherry Bridge ( First BOT project in Kerala).

Some of the latest projects undergone through the authorization of the GCDA are:

  • Chilavannor Bund Road

  • Manappatiparambu City Square Project

  • Periyar River Promenade Project

  • Karimugal Multipurpose Hall

  • Ambedkar Sport City

  • Kallor Station Renovation

  • Kallor-Kadavanthra Road

  • Amttancherry Bridge Renovation.

Some of the upcoming and undergoing projects by GCDA in Kochi are:

  • The Affordable housing Scheme of Life Mission Project

  • Kochi Enonomic City

  • Multilevel care parking at Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium

  • Cable car at Cochin Marine Drive

So that's a brief about the Greater Cochin Development Authority or GCDA.

We hope you like the article.

Also Read: All About Cochin international Airport

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Most Frequently Asked Questions?

Is GCDA government or private?

Established by the State Government of Kerala, the Great Cochin Development Authority or the GCDA is government authority who looks after the infrastructure development of Kochi City.

What is the history of GCDA?

The Greater Cochin Development Authority(GCDA ) was established in the year of 1976 under the Madras Town Planning Act of 1920 and the Travancore Town Planning Act IV.

Is Cochin and Kochi the same?

Cochin is the name used by the British, Thus saying Kochi and Cochin are the same. You don't have to be confused when you are planning a trip here.

Where does the name Kochi come from?

The name Kochi was derived from the two words "Koch" and "Azhi", which means small river mouth.

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