PNT Reporter

06 Dec 2024

BEML Ltd has secured a INR 3,658 crore contract from Chennai Metro Rail Ltd (CMRL) for the design, manufacture, supply, testing, and commissioning of Standard Gauge Metro Rolling Stock. The project includes 210 metro cars, to be delivered as 70 three-car train sets, and a 15-year maintenance contract. These trains will operate in Unattended Train Operation (UTO) mode, serving three major corridors. The entire metro network will span 118.9 km, with delivery starting in January 2027 and completion by April 2029.Read more

PNT Reporter

06 Dec 2024

The Tamil Nadu government's plan to develop a greenfield airport at Hosur has been hindered by a policy from the Centre. The proposed location falls within 150 km of Bengaluru airport, where no new airports can be developed until 2033 due to a concession agreement between the Civil Aviation Ministry and Bangalore International Airport Ltd. Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu is advancing plans for a new airport at Parandur, 65 km from Chennai, with an investment of INR 20,000 crore. Additionally, plans are underway to expand Salem airport to accommodate larger aircraft.Read more

PNT Reporter

06 Dec 2024

Starting December 1, Goa's Tenant Verification Act mandates landlords to verify tenants or face a fine of INR 10,000. Enforced to curb rising criminal activities involving non-residents, the law emphasises community safety and accountability. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant highlighted its importance in addressing security concerns, supported by a state-wide police drive examining 200,000 tenants since September. Landlords must now collect identification documents and conduct basic background checks before renting properties. While compliance challenges may initially impact the rental market, the government plans to offer workshops and resources to ease the process, aiming to foster a safer environment across the state.Read more

Parvinder Singh , CEO, Trident Realty

06 Dec 2024

The Delhi-NCR real estate sector faces significant challenges from air pollution, leading to construction bans under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). These restrictions cause delays, disrupt cash flows, and lead to labor shortages, complicating developers' commitments under RERA regulations. To adapt, developers can use prefabricated materials to reduce waste and emissions, implement pollution control measures like dust-absorbing barriers and anti-smog guns, and focus on low-pollution tasks such as interior work during bans. Engaging with authorities to seek exemptions for compliant projects and conducting public awareness campaigns can also help. Embracing sustainable practices ensures project continuity while contributing to environmental responsibility, striking a balance between development and ecological priorities.Read more

PNT Reporter

05 Dec 2024

Phase 2 of the Hyderabad Metro is set to cover 76.4 kilometers across five corridors, down from the initially planned 116.4 kilometers, with the proposed fourth city Metro connectivity of 40 kilometers on hold. Expected to serve 800,000 passengers daily, this phase prioritizes immediate urban mobility needs. The first construction focus will be a 7.5-kilometer expansion of the Old City corridor, with demolitions anticipated by the end of the year. The project will also introduce a double-decker flyover and utilize modern construction techniques to accelerate development.Read more

PNT Reporter

05 Dec 2024

The Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) has revealed a significant increase in misleading and unlawful advertisements for the first half of 2024-25, with the real estate sector topping the list of violations, accounting for 34% of breaches. Illegal betting followed at 29%, while healthcare, personal care, and food & beverage industries also contributed to the infractions. ASCI reviewed over 4,000 complaints and 3,000 advertisements, with a staggering 98% needing revisions. The report also highlighted a growing trend of advertisers settling disputes voluntarily, reducing ASCI's average response time from 30 to 18 days.Read more

PNT Reporter

05 Dec 2024

The Mumbai Coastal Road Project (MCRP) has achieved a major milestone with the launch of the final girder for the bow-string bridge connecting the coastal road to the Bandra Worli Sea Link (BWSL). This new girder will facilitate north-bound traffic towards Bandra, Andheri, and Bandra Kurla Complex. The project is now 94% complete, with ancillary tasks such as installing signage, painting, and creating the carriageway underway. The girder launch, carried out from the Arabian Sea due to land constraints, overcame challenges posed by shallow waters and bedrock at Worli. The bridge, interchange, and underpass are expected to open sequentially in January.Read more

Prof Dhaval Monani and Dr Nikhilesh Sinha

04 Dec 2024

Future cities are often envisioned as high-rise clusters, driven by growing populations and limited urban space. Global examples like Manhattan and Tokyo showcase successful high-rise urbanism, while Indian cities are rapidly adopting this model. However, high-rise developments come with challenges, including higher maintenance costs, inefficient resource management, and substantial carbon emissions. Research indicates low-rise, high-density urban models, like Paris, are more sustainable, consuming less energy and generating fewer emissions. India's unique climate and infrastructure necessitate context-sensitive planning, as high-rises may not always optimise land use or ensure liveability. Balancing modern urban needs with environmental goals is imperative.Read more

PNT Reporter

04 Dec 2024

Gurugram's public transport is set for a major boost with a 28.8 km metro line connecting Millennium City Centre to Cyber City. The INR 5,452 crore project, approved in June 2023, includes 27 stations and aims to ease traffic congestion while promoting eco-friendly commutes. Systra India, the design consultant, is finalising route alignment and station details, with surveys integrating GPS technology and a 500-metre buffer zone. The metro expansion marks the first in seven years and aligns with Gurugram's growing urban demands. Expected to improve mobility, reduce pollution, and support economic growth, the project underscores a shift toward sustainable urban infrastructure.Read more

PNT Reporter

04 Dec 2024

Urjita Jagdish Master, a stock market investor and director of Deep Financial Consultants, has purchased a luxury apartment in Mumbai's Oberoi Three Sixty West tower for over INR 105 crore. The 7,139 sq. ft. property on Worli's 59th floor boasts sea views and a price of INR 1.50 lakh per sq. ft., among India's most expensive deals. The transaction reflects Mumbai's booming luxury real estate market, driven by urbanization, high-net-worth buyers, and demand for exclusive living spaces. With top-tier amenities and record property sales in 2024, Mumbai remains a hotspot for affluent investments, shaping the future of India's luxury housing market.Read more