NMMC Steps Up Construction Oversight Amid Air Quality Concerns
UP RERA Sees Broad Based Real Estate Surge
Real estate development activity in Uttar Pradesh gathered significant momentum in 2025, with project approvals and capital inflows reaching their highest levels since the state regulator began operations. Data released by the Uttar Pradesh Real Estate Regulatory Authority (UP RERA) indicates a sharp acceleration in new project registrations, reflecting rising investor confidence and a gradual widening of the state’s property markets beyond traditional urban centres.
During 2025, UP RERA cleared over 300 real estate projects across residential and commercial segments, marking a notable year-on-year expansion. Capital committed to these projects crossed ₹68,000 crore, underscoring a strong rebound in large-scale development after a period of cautious investment. Urban economists view this trend as a signal of stabilising demand, improved regulatory certainty, and renewed appetite for organised real estate in northern India’s most populous state. A defining feature of the year’s approvals was the growing contribution from districts outside the National Capital Region. While NCR markets continued to anchor volumes and investment value, a majority of newly registered projects were located in non-NCR regions. This shift suggests a more geographically balanced development cycle, supported by infrastructure upgrades, regional connectivity projects, and expanding urban employment hubs.
The rise in approved housing stock was equally pronounced. Nearly 85,000 residential and commercial units received regulatory clearance during the year, with housing accounting for the bulk of new supply. Urban planners note that the scale of residential approvals indicates sustained end-user demand, particularly in cities witnessing job growth, education-driven migration, and tourism-led redevelopment. Commercial units, including neighbourhood retail and mixed-use formats, also formed a meaningful share, pointing to evolving urban consumption patterns. Regionally, western Uttar Pradesh remained the dominant growth engine, driven by large integrated developments and higher-value projects. Central Uttar Pradesh, led by the state capital, also recorded strong traction, while eastern districts saw incremental but widening participation. Importantly, project registrations extended to a greater number of districts than in the previous year, signalling deeper market penetration into tier-II and tier-III cities.
District-level data highlights the continued strength of planned urban centres, alongside emerging demand in religious and heritage cities. Improved transport infrastructure, civic upgrades, and tourism-related investment are reshaping housing and commercial needs in these locations. Industry experts believe such diversification reduces systemic risk by lowering overdependence on a handful of markets. From a governance perspective, officials attribute the growth to tighter compliance norms, digital project monitoring, and greater transparency in disclosures. These measures have improved buyer confidence while encouraging developers to formalise operations under the regulatory framework.
Looking ahead, analysts caution that sustained momentum will depend on timely project execution, environmental safeguards, and alignment with local infrastructure capacity. If managed prudently, the current upswing positions Uttar Pradesh’s regulated real estate sector to support inclusive urbanisation, regional economic resilience, and long-term housing supply across diverse city markets.
UP RERA Sees Broad Based Real Estate Surge
Shyam Steel Partners Harmanpreet Kaur To Promote Inclusive Construction
Shyam Steel, a leading Indian manufacturer of primary TMT bars, has entered into a brand association with Harmanpreet Kaur, captain of the Indian women’s national cricket team, signalling a broader shift in how infrastructure companies engage with inclusion and evolving urban households. The move reflects changing dynamics in housing decision-making as Indian cities expand and homebuilding becomes more participatory and socially conscious.
Industry experts note that infrastructure brands are increasingly recalibrating their public positioning to reflect not only structural strength but also social relevance. In dense urban markets, where housing quality, safety, and long-term value are under scrutiny, material manufacturers are recognising the influence of women as key stakeholders in residential construction and renovation decisions. Harmanpreet Kaur’s role as a national sports leader is being leveraged to underscore themes of resilience, discipline, and accountability—qualities that analysts say resonate with modern housing expectations. Urban planners observe that such associations mirror a deeper transition in the real estate ecosystem, where trust, transparency, and informed choice are becoming as important as physical durability.
The partnership also brings attention to digital tools reshaping home construction practices. Shyam Steel’s housing support platform, designed to guide homeowners from planning to execution, reflects growing demand for structured, technology-enabled solutions in an otherwise fragmented sector. Experts suggest that digital interventions can reduce inefficiencies, improve construction outcomes, and encourage responsible material use—key considerations for climate-resilient urban growth. From a gender inclusion perspective, the association highlights how women’s participation in housing decisions can influence better spatial planning, safety considerations, and long-term asset management. Studies in urban development indicate that inclusive decision-making often leads to more sustainable neighbourhoods, improved maintenance standards, and stronger community cohesion.
Market observers also see the move as part of a wider branding shift within the construction materials industry, where companies are moving away from purely production-led narratives. Instead, they are aligning with broader national conversations around inclusive growth, informed citizenship, and long-term urban resilience. However, experts caution that such associations must extend beyond visibility to measurable impact. As India’s construction sector faces increasing pressure to reduce environmental footprints and improve regulatory compliance, alignment with inclusive leadership must be matched by responsible manufacturing practices and transparency across supply chains.
Looking ahead, the collaboration with Harmanpreet Kaur positions Shyam Steel within a changing urban narrative—one where infrastructure strength is increasingly defined by people-first values. For India’s rapidly growing cities, such shifts may influence not only brand perception but also how households engage with materials, technology, and sustainability in the process of building durable, future-ready homes.
Shyam Steel Partners Harmanpreet Kaur To Promote Inclusive Construction
CREDAI Launches North Karnataka Property Exhibition
Hubballi-Dharwad is set to host one of North Karnataka’s largest real estate and urban development exhibitions as CREDAI Hubli-Dharwad prepares to open the three-day ‘Recon Expo 2026’ from January 9 at Airport Road, near the Deshpande Startup Hub. The event, covering over one lakh square feet, is expected to highlight emerging trends in residential and commercial real estate, construction technologies, and interior design solutions, reflecting the city’s evolving position as an investment hub.
Urban planners note that exhibitions of this scale offer more than commercial visibility—they provide a platform for knowledge exchange between developers, property consultants, and residents while signalling the city’s readiness for structured urban growth. North Karnataka, historically peripheral to India’s primary real estate markets, is increasingly attracting attention due to growing economic activity and infrastructure expansion in Hubballi-Dharwad. Over 150 stalls are being set up for the expo, representing builders and consultants from across North Karnataka, including hubs such as Bangalore, Mysore, and Davangere, as well as international participants from Dubai. Industry observers say the inclusion of global participants reflects the potential for cross-border investments and signals a more connected and competitive real estate ecosystem in smaller but rapidly growing urban centres.
From a civic perspective, the expo also highlights the intersection of urban infrastructure and sustainable development. Developers are expected to present offerings that integrate efficient construction materials, energy-conscious building technologies, and interior design solutions that respond to changing lifestyles. Experts suggest that exposure to such innovations can influence local building standards and encourage environmentally sensitive urban renewal. For residents and potential investors, the event offers direct access to properties, ranging from plots and apartments to commercial spaces, enabling informed decisions in a rapidly appreciating market. Analysts highlight that structured exhibitions like Recon Expo can accelerate urban densification while fostering better design, safety, and amenity integration, particularly in secondary cities where informal or unplanned construction has historically been a concern.
Political and cultural figures, including state ministers, legislative representatives, and regional celebrities, are scheduled to attend the inauguration, underscoring the expo’s significance in both economic and civic terms. Urban economists point out that the presence of policymakers at such events can facilitate dialogue on regulatory frameworks, property rights, and incentives for sustainable development, which are essential for equitable growth in emerging urban centres. As Hubballi-Dharwad continues to attract real estate interest, initiatives like Recon Expo 2026 illustrate the city’s capacity to host large-scale urban development forums, bridging investment, innovation, and community engagement. Experts suggest that such events not only showcase market potential but also encourage responsible urbanisation practices that can strengthen local economies and improve livability standards over the long term.
CREDAI Launches North Karnataka Property Exhibition
Empire Realty Wins Top Redevelopment Brand Award
Mumbai’s real estate landscape is witnessing renewed focus on redevelopment, with Empire Realty emerging as a key benchmark after being recognised as the Best Redevelopment Brand of the Year 2025 at the Bright Real Awards. The accolade underscores the growing importance of asset renewal in the city’s western suburbs, where ageing buildings, rising demand for modern amenities, and evolving urban lifestyles are driving transformation.
Urban planners highlight that redevelopment in Mumbai has become a strategic urban lever, particularly in established western suburbs such as Andheri, Goregaon, Malad, Kandivali, Borivali, and Dahisar. These neighbourhoods are characterised by dense, older housing stock whose structural limitations and dated facilities are increasingly mismatched with contemporary living standards. Industry experts suggest that developers capable of combining technical expertise with trust-based community engagement are best positioned to capitalise on this shift. Empire Realty, with over 50 years of presence across three generations in the Mumbai market, has focused on this niche. Analysts note that the company’s approach—balancing heritage, safety, and modernisation—reflects an understanding that redevelopment is not merely physical construction but also social and economic renewal. Projects integrate enhanced natural light and ventilation, modern elevators, efficient parking solutions, advanced safety measures, and lifestyle-oriented amenities, effectively upgrading daily living while retaining neighbourhood identity.
From an investment perspective, redevelopment is increasingly recognised as a dual-value proposition. Residents can modernise their homes without relocating, while simultaneously increasing the asset value of their properties. Brokers report that western suburbs have seen notable property appreciation where redevelopment projects have been executed, with new units attracting higher valuations than pre-existing structures. Urban economists suggest that such interventions can strengthen local economic activity by improving infrastructure, attracting premium services, and stimulating ancillary commercial development. Sustainability and compliance are becoming central to redevelopment projects, with environmentally conscious construction practices, efficient water and energy systems, and earthquake-resistant designs emerging as differentiators. Analysts emphasise that disciplined project management and timely delivery are critical for maintaining trust and encouraging wider adoption of redevelopment in Mumbai, where residents are increasingly discerning and risk-averse.
The recognition of Empire Realty highlights both the market potential and the responsibility inherent in redevelopment. Experts argue that success in this sector depends on a people-first approach—maintaining clear communication, transparency, and ethical practices while delivering tangible urban and financial benefits. The award also signals a wider shift in Mumbai’s real estate sector towards intelligent renewal as a tool for sustainable urban growth. As the western suburbs continue to evolve, redevelopment is set to play a pivotal role in reshaping Mumbai’s urban fabric—enhancing safety, accessibility, and lifestyle quality while contributing to property value stability and long-term wealth creation for residents.
Empire Realty Wins Top Redevelopment Brand Award
Bandra Versova Sea Link Boosts Property Demand
Mumbai’s western suburbs are experiencing a noticeable upswing in real estate activity, even as the Bandra–Versova Sea Link (BVSL) remains under construction, with completion expected in late 2028. Industry experts point to the ongoing infrastructure development along the Mumbai Coastal Road Project (MCRP) corridor as the key driver reshaping the residential and commercial landscape from Bandra to Versova, Juhu, and Madh Island.
The Versova–Bandra Sea Link, a central component of Phase II of the coastal road, has advanced nearly 900 metres offshore between Bandra and Juhu, marking the project’s farthest extension into the Arabian Sea. Once completed, the 60-kilometre Mumbai Coastal Road (North) corridor—including interchanges and link roads—will connect South Mumbai with the northern suburbs, reducing Bandra-to-Versova commute times to an estimated 15–20 minutes. Urban planners note that such high-capacity coastal connectivity is likely to relieve pressure on the Western Express Highway while fostering transit-oriented development in previously underserved western corridors. Real estate analysts highlight that luxury housing growth, historically concentrated along Nariman Point to Bandra, is expected to extend deeper into the western suburbs. Bandra neighbourhoods such as Bandstand, Carter Road, and the precincts surrounding Otters Club have already recorded heightened interest from developers and investors. Brokers estimate property rates between ₹50,000 and ₹1 lakh per square foot, attributing growth to sea link progress and relaxed Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) norms facilitating redevelopment of ageing structures.
Juhu, traditionally constrained by defence-related height restrictions, is witnessing redevelopment of bungalow plots into high-rise residential projects. Sea-facing apartments in the area now command premiums exceeding ₹1 lakh per square foot, while average rates hover around ₹60,000–₹70,000 per square foot. Analysts suggest that improved connectivity and infrastructure-led transformation are key factors enhancing the suburb’s long-term investment appeal. Versova, already benefiting from Metro access, is attracting renewed developer interest as the sea link promises to decongest existing arterial roads and shorten commuting times. Current property values range between ₹35,000 and ₹45,000 per square foot. Meanwhile, Madh Island is emerging as a strategic investment zone, with the proposed Versova–Madh Island connector expected to improve access to Malad and adjacent areas. Brokers report that interest from high-net-worth individuals and entertainment industry stakeholders is driving speculative purchases ahead of operationalisation.
Urban planners observe that infrastructure-triggered real estate growth, if aligned with sustainable development principles, could enhance land-use efficiency and reduce vehicular emissions by promoting transit-oriented, high-density development along coastal corridors. However, careful monitoring of environmental impacts and adherence to CRZ regulations will be critical to balancing urban expansion with climate resilience. With the Bandra–Versova Sea Link and associated coastal infrastructure set to transform western Mumbai’s accessibility, the real estate market is poised for continued momentum, signalling both immediate investment opportunities and long-term urban densification in a rapidly evolving metropolitan corridor.
Bandra Versova Sea Link Boosts Property Demand
Bachchan Family Partners Sri Lotus For GIFT City
Gandhinagar is poised to witness a significant expansion in ultra-luxury mixed-use development as the Bachchan family formalises a development agreement with Mumbai-based Sri Lotus Developers & Realty Limited. The project, set within India’s only operational international financial services centre at GIFT City, will be executed through Rise Root Projects Private Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of the developer, under an asset-light, profit-sharing model.
The land parcel, measuring approximately 23,000 square metres along the Sabarmati riverfront, has been in the family’s possession for nearly 15 years. Industry analysts observe that converting this prime freehold, non-agricultural land into a high-end mixed-use development aligns with GIFT City’s strategic objective of attracting premium residential, commercial, and retail assets catering to financial institutions, fintech enterprises, and IT/ITeS firms. For Sri Lotus Developers, this initiative represents its first foray into Gujarat and a strategic extension beyond its Mumbai base following its recent initial public offering. The collaboration leverages the developer’s experience in high-value urban projects, combining design, construction, and operational expertise to deliver complex developments. A senior urban planner noted that such asset-light partnership models allow private investors and landowners to de-risk large-scale developments while enabling developers to maintain flexibility in capital allocation and execution.
The proposed development is expected to exceed one million square feet of built-up area, integrating ultra-luxury residential units with Grade-A commercial offices and premium retail. There is scope for hospitality and serviced apartment components, reflecting evolving occupier demands in India’s only operational international financial centre. Market observers highlight that mixed-use projects of this scale can enhance the functional diversity of urban hubs, support workforce accommodation needs, and stimulate local economic activity through employment, service provision, and infrastructure development. The association between the Bachchan family and Sri Lotus Developers is long-standing. The family has been an early investor in the company and has acquired multiple high-end residences from its portfolio, making the collaboration both a continuation of an existing relationship and a strategic urban investment. Experts suggest that celebrity-backed developments often bring additional visibility and attract high-net-worth occupiers, potentially influencing the city’s luxury real estate market dynamics.
Execution is expected over four years, contingent on regulatory approvals and market conditions. Urban development specialists emphasise that the project could serve as a model for integrating sustainable, high-end mixed-use spaces in emerging financial hubs, balancing density, design quality, and environmental considerations along key riverfront precincts. By bringing world-class residential, commercial, and retail spaces to GIFT City, the development reinforces the district’s positioning as a high-value, globally competitive urban centre while setting benchmarks for future ultra-luxury projects in Gujarat and beyond.
Bachchan Family Partners Sri Lotus For GIFT City
Suraj Estate Achieves Strong Sales In Mumbai Commercial Project
Suraj Estate Developers has reported a significant early sales milestone for its flagship commercial development, One Business Bay, in South Central Mumbai, achieving gross bookings of Rs 200 crore within just 45 days of its mid-November 2025 launch. The project, spanning 2.09 lakh sq. ft. across 0.75 acres of freehold land, reflects robust demand for well-connected, ownership-driven office spaces in one of the city’s most strategic commercial micro-markets.
Industry experts suggest that the early traction indicates a shift in South Central Mumbai’s office landscape, where high-quality Grade-A commercial properties with strong connectivity and sustainability credentials are increasingly preferred by corporates and investors. The project benefits from direct access to Senapati Bapat Marg and proximity to key business districts such as BKC, reinforcing its appeal to enterprises seeking future-ready workplaces. One Business Bay has been designed as a complete commercial ecosystem, combining 15 office floors, eight levels of podium parking, two basement levels, and a double-height E-Deck breakout zone. Each floor accommodates 11 to 15 business units, supported by multiple destination-controlled high-speed elevators and intelligent systems for efficient operations. The building integrates premium retail, dining, and social spaces, promoting both productivity and employee well-being. Industry planners note that developments blending functionality, accessibility, and sustainable design elements are increasingly shaping Mumbai’s post-pandemic office market.
The project is designed by renowned architect Hafeez Contractor, and incorporates Gold LEED standards, aligning with broader trends of climate-conscious and resource-efficient commercial infrastructure in urban centres. A senior urban planner highlighted that such developments not only meet corporate space demand but also contribute to reducing city-wide environmental footprints by integrating energy-efficient systems and sustainable materials. Suraj Estate’s track record of delivering office buildings for corporate clients, including Saraswat Co-operative Bank and The Clearing Corporation of India, has reinforced investor confidence in One Business Bay. The early sales momentum is encouraging the developer to explore additional commercial projects within the South Central Mumbai corridor, leveraging strategic land parcels and urban connectivity to deliver value-accretive office spaces.
A company executive noted that disciplined project execution, combined with an in-depth understanding of the local micro-market, remains central to sustaining demand and driving long-term commercial real estate growth. Analysts say that as Mumbai’s commercial real estate ecosystem evolves, developments like One Business Bay set benchmarks for integrated, sustainable, and high-performing office environments.
Suraj Estate Achieves Strong Sales In Mumbai Commercial Project
Manojj Devnani Elevated To Deputy General Manager At Hiranandani Mumbai
Hiranandani Group has appointed Manojj Devnani as Deputy General Manager in Mumbai, strengthening the company’s leadership in marketing, commercial operations, and strategic communications across its real estate portfolio. Devnani, a 16-year veteran of the group, will oversee marketing campaigns, advertising initiatives, and event management while steering corporate communications aligned with Hiranandani’s broader growth strategy.
Industry observers note that leadership continuity is increasingly critical in Mumbai’s competitive real estate market, where brand visibility, stakeholder engagement, and integrated marketing strategies play a key role in project performance and investor confidence. By elevating Manojj Devnani, Hiranandani aims to combine operational experience with strategic insight to navigate the evolving property sector. Throughout his tenure, Manojj Devnani has progressed through roles of increasing responsibility. As Assistant General Manager for nearly four years, he managed on-site operations and marketing campaigns, ensuring project-level execution aligned with corporate objectives. Previously, as Senior Manager – Marketing & Advertising, he led brand positioning, large-scale events, and channel partner engagement, developing capabilities essential for Mumbai’s complex residential and commercial real estate markets.
A senior real estate analyst noted that Manojj Devnani’s appointment underscores the growing importance of marketing and communications leadership in translating macro urban trends into tangible project outcomes. Effective marketing strategy contributes not only to sales and brand equity but also to delivering inclusive, people-first urban developments that integrate social infrastructure, environmental resilience, and sustainable design principles. Hiranandani’s promotion of Manojj Devnani also reflects a broader industry trend in Mumbai, where internal talent succession is critical for sustaining competitive advantage. Developers are increasingly empowering long-serving executives who possess both operational knowledge and strategic foresight, ensuring client relationships, project delivery, and brand reputation remain resilient in a rapidly evolving market.
Analysts add that Mumbai’s real estate ecosystem continues to benefit from infrastructure expansion, transit-oriented development, and evolving residential preferences. Leadership appointments such as Manojj Devnani’s are expected to translate these urban growth drivers into strategic marketing, communications, and event initiatives that support the city’s development while fostering sustainable communities. Going forward, Manojj Devnani will focus on deepening investor engagement, enhancing both digital and physical marketing channels, and integrating corporate communications with event management to support Hiranandani’s ongoing urban development projects. His appointment reinforces the value of experienced leadership in delivering operational efficiency and long-term impact across Mumbai’s high-density, transit-connected neighbourhoods.
Manojj Devnani Elevated To Deputy General Manager At Hiranandani Mumbai
SRA Collects Biometrics From Over Six Lakh Slums
