The affordable housing market in India's top seven cities is facing a downturn, with demand shrinking by 20% in H1 2023, according to ANAROCK Research. Escalating land costs and other pandemic-induced factors are being blamed. Conversely, the luxury housing segment is thriving. As a result, developers are shifting focus to mid-range and premium projects. Mumbai, Pune, and NCR saw the most new affordable housing supply in H1 2023, despite the overall contraction. The change underscores a significant shift in real estate market trends.Read more

In a comprehensive evaluation carried out by engineering authorities from the Secunderabad Cantonment Board (SCB) last year, it was revealed that approximately 20 edifices dating back to the pre-Independence era were teetering on the brink of collapse. The assessment raised concerns over the dire condition of these dilapidated structures in the region. As their structural integrity continued to deteriorate, residents faced an imminent threat to their safety and well-being. Action is deemed necessary to address the potential risks posed by these aged buildings and ensure the protection of the local community.Read more

In 2011, the Jaipur Development Authority (JDA) made a significant policy revision by mandating the construction of water harvesting structures for plots measuring 300 square meters and above. JDA officials recently revealed that this initiative aimed to promote rainwater harvesting and address water scarcity in Jaipur. However, despite the measure being in place for several years, the latest data indicates that only 220 buildings in the city have complied with the requirement. This underscores the need for further awareness and enforcement to encourage more property owners to adopt rainwater harvesting systems and contribute to sustainable water management in the region.Read more

Four districts of West Bengal - Murshidabad, Bankura, Nadia, and Howrah - have been recognised with the Bhoomi Samman Platinum Certificate for successfully implementing the Digital India Land Records Modernisation Programme. President Droupadi Murmu presented the award at a ceremony in New Delhi, lauding the digitalisation efforts for their potential impact on national development and effective execution of welfare schemes. The initiative also includes assigning a Unique Land Parcel Identification Number for better land usage and formulation of new welfare programs.Read more

The Haji Qasim Ismail Building in Mahim, owned by Waqf Board, experienced a dangerous incident when the third-floor slab collapsed due to water seepage, resulting in no casualties or injuries. The authorities promptly evacuated 150 people and relocated them to nearby accommodations for their safety. The building's poor condition prior to the incident raised concerns, leading to the decision to demolish the damaged portion. The Mumbai Municipal Corporation is taking the safety and security of residents in damaged buildings seriously, providing necessary support and relocation arrangements to prevent harm to occupants of vulnerable structures.Read more

India's student housing sector is set for a boom, with the number of student relocations predicted to rise from 11 million to 31 million by 2036. Poor conditions in hostels and rising rents have sparked increased demand for improved student accommodation, says a report by Colliers India. Notable sector players are gearing up to meet this burgeoning demand. The surge in enrolment for higher education, expected to exceed 92 million by 2036, underscores vast untapped investment potential in the Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) market.Read more

Residents in Bengaluru have voiced alarm over safety issues stemming from a local builder's disregard for setback norms in the ST Bed Layout area. The negligence has resulted in hazardous traffic conditions, including a perilous blind curve. Amidst growing concerns and resident protests, local authorities intervened to halt construction. However, questions remain about the project's initial authorization and the oversight of building regulations.Read more

Three members of a housing society and two contract lift maintenance workers are facing charges in connection with the death of a 10-year-old boy who tragically lost his life in a lift crash last June. The police, who initially filed an accidental death report, have now booked the society's secretary, chairman, and treasurer, along with the contractors, under IPC section 304A for negligence. The boy's mother reported that the malfunctioning lift had been in need of repair, but the society continued to operate it without addressing the issues.Read more

Surat, the Indian city renowned for diamond cutting and polishing, now hosts the world's largest office building, the Surat Diamond Bourse. Overthrowing the Pentagon in size, this architectural marvel spans 7.1 million square feet. Constructed as a one-stop destination for over 65,000 diamond professionals, it offers a unique egalitarian design. With a sustainable blueprint that consumes 50% less energy than standard, it is poised to become the heart of Surat's 'Dream City,' a proposed smart city. This new landmark not only solidifies Surat's dominance in the diamond industry but also shines as an icon of sustainable architecture.Read more

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced a novel automated online system for scrutinizing building plans and granting construction permissions. Developed with the Department of Digital Technology and Governance, it aims to streamline processes and reduce corruption in urban local bodies. Additionally, to address Shimla's water supply issue, a dam on the Giri River will be constructed, aimed at enhancing water management in the region. These developments mark significant strides in Himachal Pradesh's commitment to digitization and environmental resilience.Read more