05 Jun 2024

Mumbai's Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) collected INR 4,856 crore in property tax for FY 2023-24, the lowest in two years and below the previous year's INR 4,994 crore. Despite surpassing its INR 4,800 crore target, delays in issuing tax bills and staffing shortages due to Lok Sabha elections hindered collections. Controversy over a proposed 17.5% tax hike and subsequent bill revisions further impacted efforts. K/East ward led with INR 463 crore, while B ward collected the least at INR 33 crore. The BMC has not raised property taxes since 2015, balancing revenue generation and public sentiment remains critical.Read more

05 Jun 2024

Mumbai's housing market is booming. New home registrations rose 17% in May 2024 compared to last year, with a strong demand for mid-sized apartments (500-1,000 sq. ft). This hot market is fueled by rising incomes, a potential post-pandemic preference for city living, and overall economic stability. Experts point to strong buyer confidence and favorable interest rates as reasons for the growth, with stamp duty collections jumping over 19% as well. While property prices might be rising, the continued increase in sales suggests this growth is likely to stay, creating a positive environment for potential homebuyers in Mumbai.Read more

04 Jun 2024

A recent ruling by the Mumbai bench of the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) determined that for an under-construction property, the date of taking possession should be considered when determining eligibility for tax benefits under Section 54 of the Income Tax Act. Section 54 of the Income Tax Act allows taxes on long-term capital gains from selling an old home to be reduced by investing in a new property within a specified time period. However, an Income Tax officer denied benefits to a non-resident couple citing the purchase agreement date, not possession date. ITAT ruled in favour of the taxpayers, holding that possession date, which fell within the required period, determined eligibility for the tax break.Read more

04 Jun 2024

K Raheja Corp Homes recently launched Raheja Amaltis, a luxurious residential project in Sion, Mumbai, near the Chembur-BKC connector. It features spacious 3 to 4-bedroom homes with decks, offering views of the BKC skyline and Maharashtra Nature Park scheduled for completion by 2027. Amenities include a rooftop infinity pool, fitness center, sky bar, and more. Designed for corporate leaders and elite professionals, Raheja Amaltis emphasizes sustainability with advanced water treatment and energy-efficient fixtures. Its strategic location ensures excellent connectivity to major business hubs in the city.Read more

04 Jun 2024

The much-anticipated Mumbai Coastal Road, a critical infrastructure project, has hit a snag with the discovery of a leakage in the recently opened south-bound tunnel. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has now pushed forward the opening of the entire road by almost five months, from May to October this year, in order to address the issue. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has assured the public that the main structure of the road is safe, and the leakage, which is from the expansion joints, is being addressed as a priority. The delay in the project's completion is also attributed to a labour shortage and the upcoming monsoon season, which will impact road construction. Despite these challenges, the BMC remains committed to delivering this crucial infrastructure project to the people of Mumbai.Read more

04 Jun 2024

Maha Mumbai Metro (MMMOCL) has established a state-of-the-art Monsoon Control Room to safeguard the seamless operation of Metro and Monorail services during the upcoming monsoon season. The control room is equipped with cutting-edge technology, including wind velocity anemometers and CCTV cameras, enabling real-time monitoring and risk mitigation. MMMOCL has also collaborated with the MCGM disaster management department, setting up a dedicated hotline for emergency coordination. With meticulous pre-monsoon maintenance, train overhaul preparations, and track inspections, the organization is committed to providing a consistently smooth and secure journey for Mumbaikars, even in challenging weather conditions. Passenger safety and satisfaction remain the top priorities, as MMMOCL stands ready to increase Metro frequency if needed.Read more

04 Jun 2024

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has set up a 24-hour Control Room to address various issues during the upcoming monsoon season, from June to September 2024. The Control Room aims to minimize inconveniences caused by factors such as uprooted trees, waterlogging, accidents, and traffic problems. With a team of over 300 engineers and 19 emergency response teams, the MMRDA has made comprehensive preparations, including installing water pumps, repairing drains, and coordinating with local authorities. The authority has also taken safety measures for its projects, such as the Atal Setu bridge and the Surya water supply project, to ensure continuous access and uninterrupted service.Read more

04 Jun 2024

A technical issue on the Mumbai Western Railway network has led to significant delays in local train services, forcing commuters to turn to the Mumbai Metro for their travel needs. This sudden surge in metro ridership has resulted in unprecedented overcrowding at several stations along Lines 2A and 7, particularly at Borivali, Kurar, and Rashtriya Udyan. The Mumbai Metropolitan Development Authority (MMRDA), which operates the metro, has responded by adding extra train services to alleviate the rush. This immediate action aims to provide relief to commuters affected by the disruption on the Western Railway network.Read more

31 May 2024

Mavjibhai Shamjibhai Patel, promoter of diamond company Kiran Gems, has purchased a 16,000 square foot apartment in Mumbai's luxury Oberoi 360 West project for INR 97.4 crore. Kiran Gems had recently relocated their headquarters from Surat to Mumbai. Located in upscale Worli, the apartment spans 14,911 square feet with additional expandable area. It includes nine parking slots. South and central Mumbai have seen numerous high-value property deals in recent years involving industrialists, corporate executives and celebrities due to the areas' prime sea-facing locations and most expensive apartments. With Patel's purchase, Oberoi 360 West continues its reputation as one of Mumbai's most luxurious residential projects housing prominent business families and individuals.Read more

31 May 2024

Residents of the Santacruz West Khotwadi slum in Mumbai have complained about not receiving rent for their homes and shops over the past six years as part of an ongoing redevelopment project led by Transcon Developers. Despite attempts to communicate their issues, the residents allege their pleas have been ignored and they have faced intimidation. They are now appealing to the government for urgent intervention to address the matter and protect their rights. Transcon Developers shared details of rent payments made and communications with authorities, stating all dues have been cleared and that the construction of new rehab buildings is also nearing completion.Read more

31 May 2024

After years of stagnation, the redevelopment of Topiwala Market near Goregaon railway station is set to progress with a new INR 151-crore tender issued by the BMC. Designed by Shashi Prabhu and Associates, the 16-story building will feature a market on the ground and first floors, parking podiums, an 800-seat auditorium, and residential floors for hospital doctors. Initial reluctance from vendors and legal hurdles delayed the project, originally started in 2017. After the COVID-19 pandemic caused further setbacks, the BMC terminated the previous contractor and issued a new tender. The modern complex will integrate market spaces, an auditorium, and residential units, prioritizing accessibility, sustainability, and community engagement.Read more

30 May 2024

Sobha Group, a South Indian developer, is set to transform Mumbai's high-end housing segment. The company plans to quadruple its annual sales bookings in India to INR 30,000 crore (USD 3.7 billion) within 4-5 years, highlighting their confidence in the luxury market. Sobha's entry into Mumbai focuses on premium amenities, innovative design, and sustainability. They are exploring land purchases, joint ventures, and redevelopments to navigate Mumbai's dense landscape. Supported by a 28% increase in sales bookings and a robust financial strategy, Sobha's move promises to reshape Mumbai's luxury housing market, offering more options and fostering competition.Read more

30 May 2024

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) aims to add 10 new monorail rakes to its existing fleet servicing the 17km Chembur-Wadala to Sant Gadge Maharaj Chowk corridor in Mumbai. The procurement is aimed at addressing frequent breakdown-related delays on the line by improving service frequency and passenger capacity. With the induction of higher capacity rakes that can accommodate over 600 passengers, along with more frequent services, MMRDA expects ridership to increase substantially on the monorail network. The modernization of Mumbai's public transport is vital to support the city's growing population and economy.Read more

30 May 2024

According to a report by Cushman & Wakefield, Chembur, a suburban micro-market in eastern Mumbai, has undergone a remarkable transformation in its real estate landscape. Once considered a mid-end residential area, Chembur has now emerged as a premium destination, witnessing a surge in supply and a narrowing of the pricing gap with established markets like Bandra, Worli, and Lower Parel. The area's average sales have increased significantly, and property rates have seen substantial appreciation, driven by infrastructure developments that have boosted connectivity and appeal. Chembur's affordability compared to other prime areas, combined with its improved accessibility and well-developed social infrastructure, have made it an attractive option for homebuyers and investors. The growth in Chembur's real estate market has also spurred development in neighbouring micro-markets, solidifying its position as a focal point for growth in the eastern region of Mumbai.Read more

30 May 2024

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) announced that ridership on Metro Lines 2A and 7 has surpassed 100 million. Achieved within 1.5 years of its January 2023 inauguration, this milestone highlights the Metro's transformative impact on Mumbai's public transport. Lines 2A and 7, costing INR 12,000 crore, cover a 37 km corridor connecting Dahisar East, DN Nagar, and Andheri East. They significantly reduce travel time, with Dahisar to Andheri now a 25-minute ride, down from 2 hours. This improvement saves millions of travel hours, boosts economic benefits by INR 4,000 crore annually, and reduces air pollution. Enhanced safety and accessibility make the Metro a reliable choice, especially for women, seniors, and the disabled. This success highlights the importance of the Metro in decongesting Mumbai, with further expansions planned for Lines 3, 4, 5, 6, and 9.Read more

29 May 2024

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has awarded a INR 1,300 crore tender to NCC Ltd for the concretization of 215 roads, marking a shift from traditional asphalt to more durable concrete surfaces. This project follows a terminated INR 1,687 crore contract with Roadway Solutions India Infra Ltd (RSIIL) due to slow progress and a subsequent INR 64.6 crore penalty. NCC Ltd's bid represents a 10% cost reduction. However, the monsoon season and upcoming state assembly elections will likely delay project initiation. The BMC will use this period to finalize road sequencing, relocate utilities, and obtain traffic clearances.Read more

28 May 2024

Leading Mumbai developer Keystone Realtors saw its net profit for FY24 increase 36.92% to INR 112.21 crore compared to the previous year, although profit dropped 60% in the fourth quarter. While Q4 profit fell to INR 30.68 crore from INR 76.59 crore year-on-year, total income jumped over 130% for the quarter. For the full year, total income witnessed strong growth of over 215% to INR 2,275.63 crore. Keystone Realtors operates under the Rustomjee brand with a development portfolio spanning MMR, including 34 completed and 35 ongoing/planned projects delivering over 23 million square feet to date.Read more