01 Aug 2024

The BMC is launching a INR 116-crore net-zero building in Santacruz to meet the Centre's 2070 net-zero emissions target. This eco-friendly project will replace the H/East ward office, utilising energy-efficient systems, rainwater harvesting, and sewage treatment to convert waste into reusable resources. The building aims to achieve net-zero certification under LEED and IGBC standards, with a completion timeline of ten years. This initiative aligns with upcoming elections, emphasising environmental compliance and sustainability.Read more

01 Aug 2024

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced a budget of INR 15,940 crore for Maharashtra's railway projects, part of an ongoing investment totaling INR 1.3 lakh crore. Key initiatives include redeveloping 128 stations under the Amrit Bharat Station scheme and adding 250 new local trains over the next five years. Maharashtra has achieved full railway electrification and lays 180 km of new tracks annually. Significant upgrades to Mumbai's suburban network, serving millions daily, are planned under the Mumbai Urban Transport Project. Experts highlight urgent needs to tackle congestion and improve connectivity for the growing population. The Railway Ministry aims to boost service frequency and safety with advanced systems like Kavach 4.0.Read more

01 Aug 2024

The Dharavi redevelopment project, a joint venture between the Adani Group and the Maharashtra government, has reached a critical juncture. The blueprint is ready, but relocating an estimated one lakh households is a major hurdle. Dharavi Redevelopment Project Limited (DRPPL) will build nearly 1.5 lakh homes for these residents on around 1,000 acres across Mumbai, dubbed 'Nav Dharavis'. Finding suitable land is challenging due to Mumbai's space constraints, with 540 acres identified but facing environmental and regulatory issues. The project's ambitious seven-year timeline for relocation and rehabilitation, and a total 17-year completion goal, hinges on overcoming land acquisition, relocation, and community acceptance challenges.Read more

31 Jul 2024

Mumbai's 112-year-old Sion Road Over Bridge (ROB) will shut down completely from midnight on July 31, 2024, for a major demolition and reconstruction project. The bridge, vital for connecting Sion East and West, will be rebuilt to enhance safety and traffic flow. The project, beginning August 1, 2024, and ending July 31, 2026, will significantly impact traffic. Diversion plans include rerouting through Sion Hospital Junction, K.K. Krishnan Menon Road, and St. Rohidas Marg. No-parking zones will be enforced to manage congestion. Despite short-term inconveniences, the new bridge promises improved commute efficiency.Read more

31 Jul 2024

Chennai is set for a public transport transformation with the expansion of its metro rail network. The recent start of tunnelling work for Chennai Metro Rail Phase 2 at Royapettah is a significant milestone. This project, costing INR 61,843 crore, will add 116.1 kilometres across three new corridors, linking key areas like Madhavaram, Siruseri SIPCOT, Lighthouse, Poonamallee Bypass, and Sholinganallur. Scheduled for phased completion by 2028, with the first phase operational by 2025, this expansion aims to reduce traffic, improve air quality, and enhance residents' quality of life, marking a substantial commitment to sustainable urban development.Read more

31 Jul 2024

Mumbai's Metro 3 project, set to open its first phase from Aarey Colony to Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) by September 2024, faces delays due to a contractor falling behind schedule. The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC) identified a joint venture led by J Kumar Infra as responsible for the incomplete work at six stations. Despite progress in other areas, 5% of station work remains unfinished, leading to a penalty of INR 2 crore for negligence during the monsoon. The state government remains optimistic about meeting the revised deadline, with the project currently 98% complete.Read more

30 Jul 2024

Urban local bodies in Goa struggle to conduct structural audits of dilapidated buildings due to a lack of resources, technical expertise, and jurisdictional authority over private properties. Municipal councils identify unsafe buildings and issue notices for demolition or repair but rely on the Goa College of Engineering for government building audits. The Corporation of the City of Panaji has conducted five audits, while other councils face similar challenges. Addressing these issues requires increased funding, technical support, and collaboration among stakeholders to enhance building safety standards and ensure the integrity of structures across Goa.Read more

29 Jul 2024

From 2014 to mid-2024, the average completion time for large under-construction projects in India's top seven cities dropped from 6.1 to 4.9 years, per Anarock data. In Chennai, small projects averaged 3 years and large ones 3.6 years. Hyderabad's small projects took 3.1 years and large ones 4.2 years. Bangalore's small projects averaged 3.5 years and large ones 4.8 years. Kolkata saw the longest time at 5.7 years for large projects. Developers in NCR and MMR faced delays due to outright land purchases and regulatory restrictions. Overall, stronger financial health has improved project executionRead more

26 Jul 2024

Jammu Smart City Ltd (JSCL) is set to enhance urban sustainability by developing green buildings along the Tawi riverfront. This initiative aims to incorporate energy-efficient designs, renewable energy sources, and sustainable materials, contributing to a lower carbon footprint and improved living conditions. The Tawi riverfront project, inspired by Gujarat's Sabarmati riverfront, seeks to beautify the river while enhancing its natural purification capabilities. It will create recreational, residential, commercial, and green spaces on reclaimed land. A recent meeting involving JSCL leadership and real estate consultants focused on strategic planning and land monetisation, emphasising the project's potential to boost tourism and revitalisation in Jammu.Read more

26 Jul 2024

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) plans to transfer 12 highway stretches, totalling 850 km, to the National Highways Infrastructure Trust (NHIT) in the current fiscal year, aiming to raise up to INR 20,000 crore. This is part of a broader asset monetisation strategy targeting INR 54,000 crore through various modes. Last year, NHAI raised INR 16,000 crore via NHIT for 889 km of highways. The funds, crucial for reducing borrowings and continuing highway construction, will be raised through a mix of debt and unit capital. NHIT plans to issue bonds, potentially raising INR 2,000-3,000 crore.Read more