The Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) Metro Line 3, which connects Hinjewadi and Shivajinagar, is now slated to begin operations by the end of the year. The project was scheduled to be finished in 2023, but difficulties with land acquisition, traffic, and the COVID-19 epidemic caused several delays. The integrated flyover at University Chowk and the purchase of land at Raj Bhavan are two important elements that remain unfinished despite 85% of the construction being finished. Trial runs are scheduled to start in October or November after construction is finished.Read more

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has made significant progress in infrastructure development, awarding 1,104 km of national highways and constructing 1,147 km in January 2025. Total fiscal year figures stand at 4,204 km awarded and 7,000 km built. The Ministry has spent INR 2,30,298 crore on road projects and launched a vehicle scrappage initiative, scrapping 108,583 vehicles. It has also installed 28 EV charging stations along highways. To streamline approvals for Road Over Bridges (ROB), a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is being developed. Proposed policies include higher registration fees for older vehicles and tax incentives for scrappage.Read more

The Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) will now hold Janata Din twice a month to improve public grievance redressal as part of its 100-day action plan. Led by MHADA CEO Sanjeev Jaiswal, this initiative enables direct access to grievance systems, including video conferencing. The plan also emphasizes faster project approvals, tender processing, and enhanced public amenities, including accessibility improvements and facilities for mothers. Officials must conduct regular site visits and expedite housing projects under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban). MHADA's Lokshahi Din has resolved long-pending cases, reinforcing its commitment to efficient urban housing and citizen services.Read more

The Karnataka government will hold a key meeting this Friday, led by Deputy CM DK Shivakumar and Minister MB Patil, to address land acquisition delays for Bengaluru Metro's Phase 3 and the Multi-Modal Transport Hub in Hebbal. Despite talks since October 2023, the transfer of 45 acres remains unresolved, potentially due to real estate interests. Delays in Peripheral Ring Road, Kempegowda Airport expansion, and Bangalore Suburban Railway Project highlight broader land acquisition challenges. The outcome of this meeting could determine the pace of Bengaluru's infrastructure growth and set a precedent for future projects.Read more

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a USD 200 million loan for the Kolkata Municipal Corporation Sustainability, Hygiene, and Resilience Project to modernize sewerage and drainage infrastructure in the city. The project aims to address urban flooding, outdated drainage systems, and climate resilience by constructing 84 km of trunk and secondary pipelines, 176 km of lateral pipelines, one sewage treatment plant, and five pumping stations. Over 277,000 residents will benefit, particularly in vulnerable communities. This initiative aligns with broader climate-resilience efforts, including World Bank-funded flood mitigation in Mumbai and a EUR 100 million AFD-backed stormwater drainage upgrade in Chennai. As Indian cities increasingly seek international funding for climate adaptation, Kolkata's project could serve as a model for urban infrastructure resilience across South Asia.Read more

Former Kotak Mahindra Bank CEO Uday Kotak has made Mumbai's most expensive real estate purchase, acquiring Shiv Sagar at Worli Sea Face for INR 202 crore at a record-breaking INR 2.71 lakh per sq ft. The 7,418 sq ft property surpasses previous highs on Altamount Road (INR 2.25 lakh per sq ft) and Bhulabhai Desai Road (INR 2.09 lakh per sq ft). This marks another major acquisition for the Kotak family, who previously bought Champagne House next door. Mumbai's luxury real estate sector continues to thrive, with ultra-high-net-worth individuals driving record-breaking transactions despite rising costs.Read more

Saifee Burhani Upliftment Trust (SBUT)

Bhendi Bazaar, a historic South Mumbai neighbourhood, is undergoing a large-scale redevelopment by the Saifee Burhani Upliftment Trust (SBUT) to address infrastructure challenges while preserving its cultural and economic essence. The project, one of India's largest cluster redevelopments, aims to replace dilapidated structures with modern residential and commercial complexes featuring improved sanitation, ventilation, and open spaces. Additionally, sustainable urban design elements such as rainwater harvesting and energy-efficient systems have been integrated. The initiative ensures that small businesses thrive by providing upgraded commercial spaces, maintaining market accessibility, and enhancing pedestrian infrastructure. By prioritising community engagement and cultural preservation, SBUT's transformation of Bhendi Bazaar serves as a model for structured, inclusive urban renewal.Read more

Arun Nair

Government-led infrastructure initiatives are significantly influencing residential preferences in India, with plotted developments gaining prominence. A JLL study indicates that from January 2022 to October 2023, developers acquired approximately 3,294 acres of land, while Anarock projects around 2,252 acres of land deals in FY-24 for residential, plotted, and township developments. Mumbai and Pune are leading this demand shift, highlighting the growing preference for independent and spacious living. Developers are prioritising community-driven planning and quality construction to meet evolving buyer aspirations. With increasing disposable incomes and a preference for green living, plotted developments are reshaping the future of Indian residential real estate.Read more

Arun Nair

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Slum Rehabilitation Authority (MMR SRA), established in 2020, aims to eliminate slums and improve living conditions in areas outside BMC limits, including Vasai-Virar. Under the scheme, eligible residents will receive 300 sq. ft. free housing with modern amenities. However, low awareness has led to underutilization in Vasai-Virar. A recent workshop by MMR SRA and VVMC informed citizens, developers, and officials about the scheme. Additionally, VVMC is clearing unauthorized structures and planning cluster developments at 40 identified sites. These initiatives are expected to transform Vasai-Virar into a slum-free, well-planned urban zone.Read more

Mumbai's real estate market recorded 11,541 property registrations in February 2025 that yielded INR 896 crore in stamp duty revenue. The monthly registrations indicated a 4% increase from January, despite a slight decline compared to the previous year. Residential transactions, particularly in the premium segment, accounted for 80% of the transactions. The demand for properties below INR 50 lakh fell by 19%. Market preferences shifted towards larger apartments. Central Suburbs saw the largest growth in market share from 29% to 33%. Industry leaders expressed confidence in sustained growth driven by government initiatives and market stability.Read more