Infrastructure

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JSCL launches green building project along Tawi riverfront for urban sustainability

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....
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NHAI plans to monetise 12 projects through InvIT in FY25

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....
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Karnataka's 'Beyond Bengaluru' initiative: Fostering sector-specific growth across the state

Karnataka's "Beyond Bengaluru" initiative aims to decentralise industrial development by establishing sector-specific clusters in cities like Belagavi for aerospace and Mangaluru for fintech and animation. This strategy seeks to replicate Bengaluru's IT sector success across diverse industries, attracting over 300 companies and creating 3,000 jobs in smaller cities. With a focus on regulatory ease and incentives, Karnataka aims to balance economic development statewide, leveraging its robust educational infrastructure and expanding renewable energy capacity. Challenges include regional competition and airport logistics, with solutions like reopening HAL airport under consideration, underscoring the state's commitment to sustainable and inclusive growth....
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MahaRERA to launch AI-powered grading system for real estate projects in Maharashtra

Homebuyers in Maharashtra will soon have a valuable tool at their disposal with the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA) set to launch an AI-powered grading system for real estate projects. Announced in September 2023, this initiative aims to enhance market transparency by grading projects on construction quality, financial health, legal clearances, and overall project overview. Each parameter will weigh 25% in the final grade. With over 46,000 registered projects, this system will empower buyers to make informed decisions, reduce risks, and promote high standards among developers. The AI-powered grading function is expected to be operational within a month....
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Coimbatore's new masterplan faces delay due to 3,000 public petitions

Coimbatore's draft masterplan, a comprehensive 600-page document released in February 2024, faces delays due to overwhelming public participation. Authorities received over 3,000 petitions, surpassing expectations. The plan addresses population growth, infrastructure needs, and industrial development while identifying city challenges and proposing solutions. Many petitions, particularly from rural areas, request reclassification of agricultural land, raising concerns about real estate interests. Authorities are meticulously verifying each petition, causing an additional four to five-month delay. The finalised masterplan will guide Coimbatore's development, providing a clear framework for future growth and investment....
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Hyderabad's Musi River revitalisation project must tackle 12,000 illegal structures in the buffer zone

Hyderabad's ambitious Musi River revitalization project is hindered by extensive development within its 50-metre buffer zone, surpassing earlier limits. This zone, crucial for river protection, hosts 12,000 buildings and 200 open plots, including apartments, gated communities, houses, and graveyards. The Musi Riverfront Development Corporation (MRDCL) is mapping these encroachments, crucial for restoration plans. Chief Minister K. Chandrashekhar Rao plans discussions with local legislators for support in acquiring affected properties. While removal is essential, fair compensation and rehabilitation are planned, including potential 2BHK apartments for affected families. Balancing development needs with environmental restoration remains pivotal for project success....
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Bengaluru Airport City: A 45 million sq. ft. vision for a future commercial hub

Bengaluru Airport City Limited (BACL) is set to transform the area around Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) into a sprawling 45 million square feet commercial and hospitality hub by 2038. This development will prioritise commercial office spaces, with nearly 2 million square feet dedicated to Global Capability Centres (GCCs) by 2026, attracting major corporations and multinational companies. The transit-oriented design, featuring two metro stations within the city, promises a 20% premium in rental rates. Additionally, a 2.5-kilometre underground tunnel is planned to improve connectivity, linking the eastern and western parts of the city and enhancing access from the Whitefield IT corridor. This project aligns with Bengaluru's broader trend of office space expansion, with the city's stock expected to reach 330-340 million square feet by 2030, driven by strong IT and BFSI sectors....
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Amaravati property prices soar as Chandrababu Naidu returns as Chief Minister

Following Chandrababu Naidu's return as Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Amaravati's real estate market has experienced a significant surge, with property prices rising dramatically. Naidu's vision to transform Amaravati into a world-class capital city, which stalled after his 2019 electoral loss, is now being revived. This includes ambitious infrastructure projects and sustainable urban planning. The renewed development has spurred increased real estate activity and investor confidence. However, challenges such as financial resource management and pending litigation with local farmers remain. Overall, Naidu's leadership is reigniting hopes for Amaravati's growth and development....
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New Namma Metro extension promises smoother commutes for Bengaluru residents

Bengaluru anticipates smoother commutes with the imminent 3.7 km extension of the Green Line, linking Nagasandra to Madavara. Overcoming delays from land acquisition and the pandemic, operations are set to begin by July or August pending safety clearances. The extension introduces three new stations-Manjunath Nagar, Chikkabidarakallu, and Madavara (BIEC)-costing INR 298 crore each, improving access for Madanayakanahalli, Makali, and Nelamangala residents, including proximity to Bangalore International Exhibition Centre. Plans for a 54.21 km extension to Tumakuru are underway, potentially expanding the city's longest Metro line with 19 stations. This expansion aims to bolster Bengaluru's public transit, fostering economic growth and easing commutes citywide....
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Proposed GHMC merger with Secunderabad Cantonment brings hope and concerns to residents

The proposed merger of 5,200 properties in Secunderabad's civilian areas with GHMC has sparked optimism for enhanced civic services, tempered by concerns over bureaucratic hurdles. Residents fear continued MoD oversight for construction on B3 land, potentially delaying projects. Uncertainty looms over land near military installations, subject to case-by-case handling, complicating property transactions. Apprehensions about new military stations and road closures add to anxieties. While promising improved infrastructure, addressing these issues through transparent communication is critical for a smooth transition, balancing civilian needs with military security concerns....
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Deputy CM Bairwa unveils Rajasthan's landmark road safety action plan

Rajasthan will be the very first Indian state to adopt a 10 year road safety action plan, aiming to reduce road accidents by 50% by 2030. Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Prem Chand Bairwa announced on July 8 that the plan, supported by a government policy, will raise public awareness and promote compliance with the road safety rules. The World Bank will assist in developing the plan and policy, incorporating global best practices. The plan will be implemented in three stages (2025-2027, 2027-2030, 2030-2033), focusing on speed limits, safe distances, traffic signals, road barriers, pedestrian safety, seatbelts, helmets, and vehicle insurance....
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Malang Gad landslide leads to Forest Department crackdown on illegal shops and houses

Malang Gad, also known as Haji Malang Hill, witnessed a tragic landslide that claimed one life and injured two others. In response, the forest department initiated the demolition of 90 out of over 800 illegal structures, primarily targeting commercial shops. The Peer Haj Malang Dargah Baba Trust, asserting ownership of the land, opposed the demolition, alleging political motives, and filed a case. Civil judge A S Lanjewar intervened to halt further demolition, but by then, 90 structures had already been razed. The area gained significant attention in January when Chief Minister Eknath Shinde pledged to resolve the issue. The forest department's demand for documents culminated in the demolition, which occurred under tight security measures....
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Mahalaxmi Racecourse lease agreement signed for 30 years by BMC and RWITC

Mumbai is set to gain a massive new central park, but the approval process has sparked controversy. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has acquired a 120-acre plot from the iconic Mahalaxmi Racecourse to develop a 300-acre "world-class Mumbai Central Public Park," including 175 acres from the Mumbai Coastal Road project. The Royal Western India Turf Club (RWITC) will retain 92.6 acres for horse racing but must seek BMC approval for a modern clubhouse. Despite the park's potential to increase green space in densely populated Mumbai, the project faces opposition from the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Thackeray faction) and concerns over the historic racecourse's future. Balancing heritage preservation with urban living improvements is crucial for the project's success....
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MMRDA proposes a INR 3.97 crore project to alleviate traffic at BKC One junction

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) proposes a new link to ease traffic at Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) connector and BKC One Junction. The link will connect Plot C-80 to Plot C-79, running below the BKC connector from SEBI building to Avenue 5 and Avenue 3. This signal-free route aims to distribute traffic across three alternative routes, improving flow and reducing congestion. It will enhance connectivity for vehicles from the BKC connector to key locations like the National Stock Exchange and Mumbai Cricket Association. The estimated construction cost is INR 3.97 crore, with bids due by July 19....
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Uttar Pradesh Government initiates phase II of Noida International Airport project

The Uttar Pradesh government has initiated Phase II of the Noida International Airport project, acquiring land for the airport including maintenance, repair, and overhaul hub. They aim to acquire 1365 acres, mainly from Karauli Bangar, Dayanatpur, Kuraib, Ranhera, Mudharh, and Beerampur, at a cost of INR 4,898 crores. So far, 237 hectares have been taken from Birampur, Dayantpur, and Mudharh. Compensation distribution is nearly complete, with plans to relocate 13,000 affected families to Falaida Bangar and Modalpur. Yamuna International Airport Pvt Ltd. plans test flights by November, aiming for commercial operations by April 2025....
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JICA completes funding for Mumbai metro line 3 with final loan tranche

Earlier this month, the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) signed an agreement to provide the final tranche of INR 4,657 crore for Mumbai Metro Line 3. This completes the funding for the 33.5 km underground metro line from Colaba to SEEPZ in Andheri, operated by the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC). The loan agreement, signed by Manisha Sinha from the Department of Economic Affairs and Japan's Ambassador Hiroshi Suzuki, marks the conclusion of JICA's support, which began in 2013. The project's revised cost is INR 37,276 crore, with JICA funding 57.09% (INR 21,280 crore). The line will connect key business districts, educational institutions, and airports, serving over 1.6 million commuters daily....
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RLDA's redevelopment project to modernise Nagpur Railway Station by 2025

The Rail Land Development Authority (RLDA) is redeveloping Nagpur Railway Station in Maharashtra to transform it into a modern transportation hub capable of accommodating up to 98,000 passengers daily. The project includes creating dedicated arrival and departure areas, connecting platforms via separate foot over bridges, and constructing a spacious 108-meter-wide concourse with amenities and retail options. The west side will feature a multi-level plaza with a 3,420 sqm parking area, while the east side will have separate arrival and departure buildings with a 13,250 sqm unified basement for parking. The project is 33% complete and aims to preserve the station's heritage while modernizing its functionality. Completion is expected by December 2025....
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YEIDA expands land acquisition to 4,600 acres near Noida International Airport with INR 990 crore investment

The Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) is acquiring an additional 1,861 hectares (4,600 acres) near Tappal, Aligarh, to support industrial and manufacturing projects around the upcoming Noida International Airport. This expansion aims to counter unauthorised developments hindering progress on the 2,597 hectares (6,420 acres) of designated land. Key projects include a 950-hectare (2,347-acre) multimodal logistics park with an INR 990 crore investment. YEIDA CEO Arun Vir Singh emphasised the urgency to address illegal constructions and secure the area, ensuring Tappal's development into a significant industrial hub in western Uttar Pradesh....
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AIIB considers INR 22,108 crore funding for Madurai and Coimbatore metro projects

The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is showing strong interest in financing metro rail projects in Madurai and Coimbatore, marking a crucial development in Tamil Nadu's urban mobility efforts. AIIB recently inspected the proposed 11.368 km Madurai metro route and plans to assess a similar 10.74 km route in Coimbatore soon. With Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) having prepared Detailed Project Reports (DPRs), the Coimbatore project is estimated at INR 10,740 crore, while Madurai's is INR 11,368 crore - totaling INR 22,108 crore. Pending Ministry of Finance approval, AIIB's potential investment could transform public transport, alleviate congestion, and spur economic growth in these cities....
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Haryana Government allocates INR 1,179 crore for critical infrastructure upgrades

The Government of Haryana has allocated INR 1,179 crore from infrastructure augmentation charges to improve the infrastructure in the region. This IAC was collected by several Haryana government agencies. With a rise in population the infrastructure in the region remained unchanged since it was first developed in the 1990s. With four floor plan approval by the govt.in 2019, many property owners transformed their two-floor unit to four-floor building. However, these units were not sustainable due to lack of key infrastructure like roads, electricity and drainage systems. The new government order will impose penalties on owners who built units illegally....
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MMRDA considers one-time debt settlement for Mumbai Metro Line 1

The Eknath Shinde government has shelved plans to acquire Mumbai Metro Line 1, opting instead for a one-time debt settlement. The state cabinet directed MMRDA's executive committee to settle the INR 1,700 crore debt owed by Mumbai Metro One Pvt Ltd (MMOPL), which is 74% owned by Reliance Infrastructure and 26% by MMRDA. Serving 4.6 lakh passengers daily, Metro Line 1 is Mumbai's oldest metro and operates under public-private partnership. Facing insolvency, MMOPL had agreed to a debt settlement with six lenders, including SBI and IDBI Bank. The MMRDA commissioner will meet with lenders to finalise the arrangement....
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Arun Vir Singh to continue as CEO of YEIDA and NIAL, overseeing major infrastructure projects

Arun Vir Singh has been reappointed as CEO of Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) and Noida International Airport Ltd (NIAL) until December 31, 2024. This marks his sixth extension since retiring from the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) in June 2019. With over 37 years of experience, Singh has been pivotal in advancing key infrastructure projects in the Noida region, including the Noida International Airport, which is set to cost INR 5,700 crore and serve 12 million passengers annually. Singh also oversees the development of industrial parks and a high-speed rail project, reflecting the government's confidence in his leadership and vision for regional growth....
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BMC to transforming Mahalaxmi Racecourse into a public park with Hafeez Contractor

Architect Hafeez Contractor, enlisted by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), aims to revamp Mumbai's Mahalaxmi Racecourse into a 700-acre green space. Initially proposing an elevated racetrack, Contractor finalized a 120-acre public park plan. The project includes a cycling/jogging track linking the Mumbai Coastal Road and Haji Ali via an underpass. Additionally, spiral walkway ramps will connect green spaces from Worli to Colaba, creating a contiguous green area. Contractor, who worked pro bono, aims to enhance Mumbai's greenery. The Maharashtra Cabinet approved the plan, preserving the racecourse's heritage, renewing a lease for 91 acres for Royal Western India Turf Club....
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State seeks approval for Mekedatu water project and Bangalore airport air cargo complex

The Karnataka Government is pushing for Central Government approval of two key phases of the Bangalore Metro Rail project. Phase three, costing INR 15,611 crore, awaits Union Urban Development Ministry clearance, while Phase 3A, the 37 km Hebbal-Sarjapur line, estimated at INR 28,405 crore, needs final approval despite state government consent. Additionally, the government seeks approval for the Mekedatu drinking water project and the development of Bangalore International Airport into an Air Cargo Complex. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also emphasized the need to upgrade state highways and complete various infrastructure projects to enhance connectivity and economic growth across Karnataka....
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Telangana's smart cities mission extended to March 2025: Focus on completing INR 805 crore worth of projects

The Central Government has extended the Smart Cities Mission deadline to March 31, 2025, in response to Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy's request. During his visit to the national capital, Reddy met with Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar to advocate for the extension. The extension aims to ensure the completion of ongoing projects, particularly in Warangal and Karimnagar, where significant work is underway. The Centre emphasized that no new projects will be sanctioned, and funds for existing projects will be released on a first-come, first-served basis until September. The original deadline was June 2025....
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MMRDA to secure INR 850 crore from KfW for urban infrastructure development

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has secured over INR 850 crore from the German development bank KfW and will raise an additional INR 365 crore for urban infrastructure projects. These funds will support sustainable initiatives like green corridors, waste management, and renewable energy. KfW previously approved a 545-million-euro loan for Mumbai's Metro lines 4 and 4A. This agreement marks the largest financing sanctioned to an Indian entity. MMRDA, responsible for Mumbai's infrastructure, is developing a 337 km metro network, the longest being constructed simultaneously by a single agency, aiming to improve connectivity and reduce congestion....
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Mahalaxmi Racecourse future unclear amid prolonged RWITC-BMC negotiations

The Royal Western India Turf Club (RWITC) and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) have been locked in negotiations for nearly five months over the future of the Mahalaxmi racecourse. While the RWITC members approved a deal in January, the proposed agreement has faced hurdles, with the club returning a modified version to the BMC for approval. Amid the uncertainty, the BMC chief's public statements about taking over the racecourse have raised concerns among RWITC members, walkers, and joggers. With the proposed plan involving the conversion of 120 acres into a public park and the remaining 91 acres handed to the RWITC, the club's members are frustrated by the lack of transparency from the managing committee. Adding to the complications is the looming state assembly elections, which have raised fears that a change in government could derail the entire process....
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Delhi Metro aims to open three phase-IV corridors by 2026

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) is making significant progress on its fourth-phase expansion project despite challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic and administrative delays. Anuj Dayal, DMRC's Principal Executive Director, reported that over 50% of work on all three priority corridors is complete, with substantial advancements in tunnelling on the Aerocity-Tughlakabad and Janakpuri West-RK Ashram Marg lines. The Phase 4 section from Janakpuri West to Krishna Park Extension is nearing completion, slated to open by August. They expect to operationalize the entire Majlis Park-Maujpur corridor by next year, with further phases aiming for completion by 2026....
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Dharavi redevelopment project faces hurdles in acquiring temporary housing

The ambitious Dharavi Redevelopment Project, aimed at transforming Asia's largest slum with over 700,000 residents, encounters challenges in acquiring temporary housing for displaced residents during construction. The project, led by Dharavi Redevelopment Project Pvt Ltd (DRPPL) in partnership with Adani Realty, seeks 334 tenements for relocation. Despite acquiring 27.5 acres from railways, securing the remaining land from other agencies is pending, impacting project timelines. Disagreements between DRPPL and MHADA over payment for temporary housing further complicate matters. Resolving these issues is crucial to ensuring smooth relocation and progressing with this transformative urban redevelopment initiative in Mumbai....
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Maharashtra slashes Mahalaxmi Racecourse lease rent by 70%, RWITC to pay INR 1 crore per year

The Maharashtra government has dramatically reduced the Royal Western India Turf Club's (RWITC) annual lease rent at Mahalaxmi Racecourse in Mumbai from INR 3 crore to INR 1 crore, focusing only on the built-up areas like the clubhouse and stables. This decision, criticised by some, includes leasing the remaining 79 acres of open space for public use on non-racing days at a concessional rate. Meanwhile, discussions continue on the racecourse's future, with proposals ranging from a theme park to integrating it into a larger 300-acre Central Park connected via an underground subway....
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Karnataka pushes for new CBD, inspired by Gujarat's GIFT City

The Karnataka government has proposed establishing a Central Business District modelled after Gujarat's GIFT City and sought expedited project approvals. IT & BT Minister Priyank Kharge, in a letter to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Union IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, highlighted Karnataka's vibrant economy and strategic location. The proposed CBD aims to boost economic growth, employment, and foreign investments. Karnataka, a leader in IT and electronics exports, plans to develop clusters under the EMC 2.0 scheme in Mysuru and Dharwad districts and seeks further financial support for infrastructure, skilling programmes, and research initiatives from the Union government....
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Goa's Kadamba Plateau water project faces challenges in connecting homes

Goa's Public Works Department has begun connecting homes on Kadamba Plateau to its water network, laying a 4-5 km pipeline since 2021. Nearly 200 houses now have water access, with ongoing efforts to extend connections to residential complexes. Challenges include elevational issues requiring additional overhead tanks for complexes and upgrades to Opa's water treatment plants. Lack of prior planning by builders led to reliance on private borewells, straining existing infrastructure. Options like a new 10 MLD treatment plant at Opa are considered, needing substantial investment. While individual homes benefit, timelines for complex connections remain unclear amid efforts to address water demand and elevation challenges....
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