Shalimar Paints Appoints Kuldip Raina as MD and CEO
Gurugram SPR corridor sees rapid transformation into a booming real estate destination
The Southern Peripheral Road (SPR) is rapidly transforming into one of the National Capital Region’s most active zones for real estate and commercial development.
With major corporations setting up bases, real estate prices doubling in just a few years, and the government pumping crores into infrastructure upgrades, SPR is no longer on the city’s outskirts—it is becoming a central economic and residential hub. In a sign of its growing economic potential, property prices in the SPR corridor have witnessed a sharp surge. Between 2020 and 2024, average residential rates have risen by over 125 per cent. What was once a quieter stretch of land now commands premium prices per square foot. This uptrend reflects growing demand from professionals, investors, and developers—all eyeing the area as the next hotspot for both living and working.
The real transformation, however, is being driven by a strategic push from the state government. With an allocation of ₹2,000 crore for infrastructure development in this area in the upcoming financial year, key projects are in the pipeline to enhance connectivity and reduce travel time. The plan includes better road networks, smoother intersections, pedestrian-friendly zones, and multi-modal transport links—critical to sustainable urban living. These investments are not only addressing traffic woes but also aligning with the broader vision of developing low-carbon, future-ready urban clusters. The presence of large office spaces, tech parks, and business towers has added to SPR’s appeal. A growing number of firms in IT, consulting, and retail have leased or purchased offices in the area, creating thousands of jobs. As commercial activity increases, so does the need for accessible, eco-conscious housing. The result is a spike in new residential launches tailored to modern, middle-income, and upper-income families—many of whom are looking for walk-to-work lifestyles.
Over the past five years, residential development has multiplied almost six-fold. From just a handful of projects a decade ago, SPR now boasts over 20 ongoing developments with thousands of housing units under construction. Developers are introducing features like solar rooftops, green buildings, rainwater harvesting, and EV charging to appeal to a more climate-aware demographic. These green inclusions reflect a growing shift in both consumer preference and policy focus toward eco-friendly urban development. Behind this rapid urbanisation lies a simple economic principle—people want to live closer to where they work. As corporate offices expand in the SPR belt, the demand for homes in proximity rises. This has encouraged developers to speed up construction timelines and offer more flexible payment plans. The government’s support in terms of infrastructure ensures that these developments do not become isolated pockets but well-integrated parts of a larger urban vision.
Moreover, the location is geographically strategic. SPR connects to key expressways, residential neighbourhoods, and the upcoming Dwarka Expressway, allowing it to serve as a crucial connector for north-south movement in Gurugram. This improved connectivity is a major draw for both daily commuters and logistics planners, making it an attractive option for businesses as well. The challenge now lies in maintaining a balance between fast-paced development and ecological stability. With the region’s air quality and water stress already under pressure, this phase of expansion must incorporate strict environmental checks. Civic authorities and planning bodies need to ensure waste management, tree cover, and water conservation are prioritised. Sustainable mobility options like buses, cycling lanes, and footpaths must be expanded, especially as population density increases.
From a policy perspective, SPR’s growth offers a template for what other satellite corridors of Indian cities can become—decentralised, mixed-use, high-density zones that bring jobs closer to homes. It also highlights the importance of government intervention in creating future-ready infrastructure and attracting responsible private investment. While concerns remain around long-term urban planning, resource management, and equitable housing access, the overall sentiment is optimistic. The SPR region today reflects the aspirations of a young, mobile workforce looking for more sustainable and convenient lifestyles. Its transformation from a traffic-heavy highway to a thriving, self-contained urban centre could be a model of what smart, inclusive growth looks like in the age of climate change.
Gurugram SPR corridor sees rapid transformation into a booming real estate destination
Berger Paints Introduces Innovative Paints to Combat Rising Temperatures
Berger Paints India Ltd has introduced a pioneering range of home cooling paints under its WeatherCoat brand, aiming to provide sustainable and cost-effective alternatives to traditional air conditioning. The WeatherCoat range includes three distinct products: WeatherCoat Anti Dustt Kool, Roof Kool & Seal, and Tank Kool.
Each is formulated to address specific heat-entry points in residential structures, offering a passive cooling solution that reduces reliance on energy-intensive appliances.
WeatherCoat Anti Dustt Kool is a premium exterior emulsion paint that combines heat-reflective nano-technology with dust-repellent properties. This unique formulation not only lowers indoor temperatures but also prevents dust accumulation on exterior walls, maintaining the aesthetic appeal of homes over time. The product’s six-year warranty underscores its durability and effectiveness in combating heat ingress. Roof Kool & Seal serves as a heat-reflective and waterproof coating for rooftops, which are among the most exposed areas in a home. By reflecting solar radiation and providing waterproofing, it helps maintain cooler indoor temperatures and protects against water seepage during monsoon seasons. This dual functionality is particularly beneficial in regions prone to both high temperatures and heavy rainfall.
Tank Kool is specially designed for rooftop water tanks, keeping stored water cooler by reflecting sunlight and reducing heat absorption. This is especially advantageous in areas where water storage tanks are exposed to direct sunlight, ensuring a steady supply of cool water for household use. These products align with India’s broader sustainability goals by promoting energy-efficient living and reducing the carbon footprint associated with cooling homes. By offering affordable and easy-to-apply solutions, Berger Paints is empowering homeowners to take proactive steps towards climate resilience. In a country where air conditioning is often seen as a luxury, these innovative coatings provide an accessible means for residents to enhance indoor comfort without escalating electricity consumption.
As urban areas continue to expand and climate change intensifies, such sustainable technologies are crucial in creating equitable and livable cities.
Berger Paints’ commitment to sustainability extends beyond product development. The company has previously partnered with the Being Human Foundation to co-brand ‘Breathe Easy’, India’s first green paint with international certification, further emphasizing its dedication to eco-friendly initiatives. Berger Paints’ WeatherCoat range represents a significant step towards integrating sustainable practices into everyday life. By addressing the root causes of heat buildup in homes, these products offer a practical solution to the challenges posed by rising temperatures, contributing to the creation of zero-net-carbon, eco-friendly, and equitable urban environments.
Mr. Abhijit Roy, MD & CEO of Berger Paints India Limited, said, “As a company that understands the evolving challenges of modern living, we see it as our responsibility to offer solutions that are both forward-looking and deeply relevant to everyday life. With rising temperatures becoming a pressing concern, our focus has been on developing innovations that not only address immediate comfort but also contribute to long-term sustainability. The WeatherCoat Anti Dustt Kool, HomeShield Roof Kool & Seal and HomeShield Tank Kool range is a step toward empowering Indian households with smarter, more efficient ways to adapt to changing climate realities.”
Berger Paints Introduces Innovative Paints to Combat Rising Temperatures
ArcelorMittals Green Steel Ambition Takes Shape
ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel (AM/NS) India has announced plans to produce 70% green steel at its Hazira plant in Gujarat by 2027. This ambitious initiative aligns with India’s vision to decarbonize its steel industry and achieve net-zero emissions by 2070.
The proposed expansion involves an investment of ₹60,000 crore to enhance the plant’s capacity to 15.6 million tonnes per annum (mtpa). The company aims to achieve a three-star green rating for its production, indicating an emission intensity between 2.0 and 2.2 tonnes of CO₂ per tonne of finished steel. India’s steel ministry introduced a green steel classification system in December 2024, categorizing steel based on carbon emissions per metric tonne produced. Steel with emissions below 2.2 tonnes per tonne is classified as “green steel,” with further distinctions based on emission levels. This initiative is part of India’s broader efforts to decarbonize the steel industry and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In response to concerns over the influx of cheaper steel imports, the Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR) has recommended a 12% provisional safeguard duty on certain steel products for 200 days. This measure aims to protect domestic manufacturers from the adverse effects of increased imports, which have been attributed to trade diversions from countries like the US and EU imposing protective tariffs.
While larger steel producers support the safeguard duty, smaller enterprises and MSME exporters have expressed concerns about potential cost increases. The duty may lead to higher input costs for these units, impacting their competitiveness in global markets.
ArcelorMittal’s commitment to green steel production at the Hazira plant underscores the company’s dedication to sustainable practices and its alignment with India’s environmental goals. The initiative is expected to set a benchmark for the steel industry, demonstrating that large-scale industrial operations can transition towards low-carbon, eco-friendly production methods.
As the global steel industry faces increasing pressure to reduce carbon emissions, India’s green steel vision presents an opportunity for domestic manufacturers to lead in sustainable practices. The collaboration between the government and industry players like ArcelorMittal is crucial in achieving the nation’s climate objectives and fostering a resilient, green economy. In conclusion, ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India’s green steel initiative at the Hazira plant represents a pivotal step towards sustainable steel production in India. The company’s investment and commitment to reducing carbon emissions align with national and global environmental goals, positioning India as a leader in the green steel revolution.
ArcelorMittals Green Steel Ambition Takes Shape
JLL Partners with ISH to Shape Real Estate Futures
JLL India has joined forces with the Indian School of Hospitality (ISH) to launch a specialised academic-industry programme aimed at nurturing the next generation of professionals in real estate services and human resource management. This collaboration comes at a time when India’s urban infrastructure and real estate ecosystem are rapidly expanding and evolving towards more sustainable, technology-driven models.
The partnership marks the inception of a one-year Postgraduate Programme (PGP) in Hospitality Management, uniquely tailored to integrate operational knowledge with strategic real estate insights. The programme blends six months of intensive classroom learning at ISH’s state-of-the-art campus with a five-month on-ground immersion across JLL India’s diverse operational portfolios, offering participants real-time exposure to how modern cities and spaces are shaped.
This initiative is expected to contribute significantly to closing the skills gap in the real estate services domain, particularly in the areas of facilities management, property operations, client services, and workplace strategy—all essential components in the development of climate-resilient and inclusive cities. As India steers towards smart and sustainable urbanisation, the demand for talent with interdisciplinary skills in hospitality, operations, and real estate is growing at an unprecedented rate. By leveraging ISH’s academic excellence and JLL’s vast on-ground expertise, the partnership fosters a new talent pool aligned with the principles of net-zero carbon, gender-neutral workforce development, and socially responsible urbanisation. For a sector that has traditionally been slow to evolve in its workforce practices, this collaboration signals a cultural shift—one that views human capital not just as a cost, but as the catalyst for building equitable, efficient and people-centred urban environments.
The programme is also designed to reflect the realities of a changing world where client experiences, energy-efficient buildings, and tech-enabled environments are no longer just value additions, but fundamental expectations. With this, JLL India is not only investing in business continuity but also contributing to a broader national agenda of creating future-ready, employable youth who can drive India’s next phase of urban transformation. While the first cohort of the programme is yet to begin, industry observers see this as a model that could be replicated across other urban sectors—encouraging more such partnerships between academia and enterprise to shape a workforce that is as resilient and dynamic as the cities it will help build.
“At JLL, we are committed to investing in future-ready talent. By funding 50% of the program fee for each participant, we are ensuring that selected candidates are well-equipped for long-term careers within our real estate advisory ecosystem. This investment aligns perfectly with our growth and talent strategy in India. This collaboration exemplifies JLL’s commitment to shaping the future of real estate through education and industry partnerships. By aligning academic excellence with practical industry experience, we are creating a talent pool which is future ready and ready to handle the dynamic and ever evolving FM sector,” said Ajit Kumar, Managing Director, Work Dynamics Accounts, West Asia, India, JLL, emphasizes the significance of this partnership. The ISH-JLL Postgraduate Programme is designed to create a pipeline of professionals who are not only operationally sound but also adaptable to the complexity of modern real estate environments.
“This is what industry-academia collaboration should look like, where education aligns with employment, and industry takes the lead in shaping future talent. In every strong economy, real progress begins when institutions and companies come together to create pathways that lead to growth. This partnership creates opportunities that lead to careers, with clear visibility on progression and purpose. It gives young professionals the return they seek on their invested time, and the confidence to build their future with intent,” said Kunal Vasudeva, Co-Founder & Managing Director, Indian School of Hospitality.
JLL Partners with ISH to Shape Real Estate Futures
NAVI MUMBAI THE CITY, THE CHALLENGE & THE CHANGE
In this exclusive conversation, VIJAY LAKHANI, Chairman of Lakhani Group and President of MCHI Navi Mumbai, reflects on the group’s three-decade journey shaping Navi Mumbai’s skyline. From the early days of affordable housing to the rise of luxury on Palm Beach Road, he shares insights into the city’s urban evolution, the challenges developers face, and why Navi Mumbai is poised to become India’s most aspirational destination by 2030.
Lakhani Group has been a part of Navi Mumbai’s growth story for over three decades. Can you walk us through the evolution of the group and what core values continue to drive it today?
Witnessing a city evolve from its foundational stages to a thriving urban expanse is both a privilege and a testament to our journey. At Lakhani Group, we’ve been deeply embedded in this transformation for over twenty-five years. With more than 60 residential and commercial projects delivered across Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Ulwe, Khopoli, Lonavala, and Pune, our mission has always been to create spaces that are benchmarks in quality and customer satisfaction.
The ethos that drives us is consistency—in value creation, in client trust, and in design innovation. Over time, we’ve evolved into a purpose-led organisation, where every project reflects thoughtful design, strategic planning, and an unwavering commitment to upgrade lifestyles. Today’s demand goes beyond mere construction—urban infrastructure, IT parks, entertainment hubs, and public amenities define how a city lives and breathes. At Lakhani Group, our role is to anticipate that shift and respond with developments that are future ready.
Navi Mumbai has undergone rapid urbanisation in the last decade. How has Lakhani Group adapted to the city’s evolving landscape?
Our relationship with Navi Mumbai is not just professional—it’s deeply personal. We’ve seen this city grow, and in many ways, contributed to its transformation. Unlike Mumbai, where developers often diversify into industries, exports, and other verticals, in Navi Mumbai, real estate is our singular focus. Nearly every developer here is fully invested in building homes and shaping the cityscape.
The geography of Navi Mumbai— from Airoli to New Panvel—offers incredible breadth and flexibility for developers to create across all segments. What truly sets this city apart is the diversity it offers. Whether it’s affordable housing at ₹20–25 lakhs or high-end homes that go up to ₹5–6 crore, Navi Mumbai caters to a full spectrum of homebuyers—from first-time owners to luxury seekers. What makes this even more remarkable is CIDCO’s foundational
planning, which still stands strong today. The city was built with a vision—and that vision continues to receive government support in the form of infrastructure, amenities, and connectivity. We’re proud to say that Navi Mumbai, in terms of choice, planning, and potential, remains unmatched in the region. It’s not just a satellite city anymore—it’s a destination in its own right
What are some of the key challenges that developers currently face in Navi Mumbai, particularly in relation to planning norms and policy mandates?
Navi Mumbai, despite being one of India’s most thoughtfully planned cities, still presents several regulatory challenges that hinder the creation of optimized, aesthetically superior developments. One significant issue developers have raised—particularly through platforms like CREDAI-MCHI—is the applicability of certain statewide mandates that don’t align with the specific realities of Navi Mumbai. 
For instance, the Inclusive Housing Policy, while important in the broader context of affordable housing across Maharashtra, is somewhat misplaced in Navi Mumbai. That’s because CIDCO, as the planning authority, has already delivered far more inclusive and affordable housing stock than most other cities in the state. Continuing to impose additional quotas on developers for such housing, in areas where the need has already been met, risks disrupting the balance of planned development. It could, in fact, deter the aesthetic and infrastructural ambitions we hold for making Navi Mumbai a smart and beautiful city.
Similarly, the norms regarding recreational ground (RG) allocations pose practical difficulties. CIDCO has already earmarked and developed expansive RG zones in every sector and node across Navi Mumbai—gardens, parks, and open spaces have been built as part of a master plan. Re-imposing RG obligations within private developments—especially in redevelopment projects—creates unnecessary congestion. Developers are required to construct not only for existing residents but also additional sale components, and when 20% of the land must be carved out for RG despite public grounds already existing nearby, it restricts our ability to design spacious, well-ventilated layouts. The end result is compromised design and constrained project vision.
We’ve submitted representations to the government and CIDCO through CREDAI-MCHI, urging them to reconsider these provisions and allow more flexibility in cases where the city’s master planning already accommodates public infrastructure. Our request is simple: give us the margin to build beautiful, efficient, and world-class projects without duplicative restrictions. Navi Mumbai has the potential to be a benchmark city—not just in planning, but in execution—and that requires a collaborative policy environment.
“By 2030, I believe Navi Mumbai will no longer be seen as a satellite city—it will be one of India’s most desirable urban destinations, with world-class connectivity, sustainable planning, and a superior quality of life.”
There’s often a limited perception of Navi Mumbai’s geography and potential. From your perspective, how has the region evolved beyond Vashi, and which corridors are now emerging as the city’s new growth and luxury hotspots?
There’s a common misconception among many that Navi Mumbai begins and ends with Vashi. That’s far from reality. The city stretches from Airoli to Ghansoli, Koparkhairane, Vashi, Sanpada, Nerul, CBD Belapur, and further down to Kalamboli, Kamothe, and New Panvel. Each of these nodes has its own distinct market segment— ranging from budget-friendly flats to premium residences.
One of the most transformational developments in Navi Mumbai has undoubtedly been Palm Beach Road. It has redefined the luxury housing narrative in the region. Since its inception, Palm Beach has attracted a new class of homebuyers looking for high-end properties, and the demand here has only continued to grow. What’s even more promising is that CIDCO is now planning to extend Palm Beach Road all the way from Koparkhairane to Ulwe. This expansion will dramatically elevate the profile and value of all the areas along this extended stretch. We’re expecting property prices in these belts to match, if not surpass, those in some of Mumbai’s most premium addresses.
Palm Beach, which currently stretches from Vashi to CBD Belapur, is already among the most expensive and aspirational parts of Navi Mumbai. With the extension in the pipeline, this entire corridor is set to become the epicentre of high-budget development. That said, Navi Mumbai still offers a variety of options—there are affordable segments thriving alongside the luxury market, and the breadth of choices available here is unmatched. It’s fair to say that all eyes are on Navi Mumbai now, and for good reason.
When evaluating Navi Mumbai’s evolving landscape—be it retail, commercial, or residential—what, in your view, stands out as the city’s most promising proposition? Is fair housing still the stronger opportunity, or is commercial growth catching up?
Housing will always be a basic human need—everyone requires a home. But alongside that, commercial space is equally vital as it forms the foundation for livelihoods. In Navi Mumbai, we’ve noticed an increasing trend where people are looking to secure office spaces near their residences. There’s a rising sentiment among professionals who, even as they approach retirement, want to remain productive. They often consider launching consultancies, setting up private practices, or venturing into entrepreneurship. For them, having a workplace close to home is a priority.
This behaviour has fuelled steady growth in commercial real estate. Over the past few years, we’ve witnessed a significant uptick in demand for commercial buildings, and the trend shows no signs of slowing down. Today, Navi Mumbai is experiencing a dual wave—residential demand remains strong, but the commercial segment is also thriving. Both sectors are developing in parallel, and that balance is what sets Navi Mumbai apart. It’s no longer a question of either or—both residential and commercial segments here are moving confidently in the right direction.
Where do you see the Navi Mumbai real estate market heading by 2030—and where do you envision the Lakhani Group in that future?
Navi Mumbai is on the cusp of a transformative decade. With major infrastructure developments like the Navi Mumbai International Airport, the extension of the Palm Beach Road, metro rail connectivity, and the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link, the city is being redefined. These projects are not just improving mobility—they’re expanding the economic and aspirational boundaries of the region.
By 2030, I believe Navi Mumbai will no longer be seen as a satellite city—it will be one of India’s most desirable urban destinations, with world-class connectivity, sustainable planning, and a superior quality of life. We’re seeing a shift where people are choosing to move here not just for affordability but for lifestyle. It’s already happening, and this momentum will only intensify over the next five years.
As for the Lakhani Group, we’ve always positioned ourselves at the intersection of trust, quality, and foresight. Our legacy over the past 30 years has been built on creating spaces that resonate with the aspirations of homebuyers. Going forward, we aim to be part of Navi Mumbai’s growth story not just as builders, but as placemakers—developing landmark projects that align with the city’s smart, sustainable, and inclusive future.
THE METRO MAN OF MUMBAI
THE METRO MAN OF MUMBAI
In the transformative journey of Mumbai’s infrastructure, few names shine as brightly as SVR Srinivas, the man who spearheaded the expansion of the city’s Metro network, reshaped transport integration, and brought in a new wave of planning-driven urban renewal. As the former Metropolitan Commissioner of MMRDA, Srinivas didn’t just lead projects—he rewired the system to deliver future-ready solutions.
In this exclusive conversation, Srinivas breaks down the nuances of Metro funding, infrastructure challenges, the revolutionary Trans Harbour Link, and why timing—not just capital—is key to transforming Mumbai.
BY TITTO EAPEN
Funding the Future
A major misconception is that delays and funding are interlinked. That’s not always the case. The initial delays we saw were technical or execution related—some of which could’ve been avoided with better planning. Later, Covid-19 disrupted timelines, but the most significant and persistent challenge remains land acquisition.
We must remember: Mumbai is a city that can’t stop. It’s densely populated, and even something as simple as crossing a railway track for a project becomes a logistical maze. Take Line-7 for instance—just to build one staircase at Virar station, 75 families and commercial units had to be rehabilitated. Multiply that across 18-19 stations and you’ll understand the scale. These aren’t just evictions—these are people with livelihoods. We provide alternate accommodations first, not just compensation, because that’s what urban justice demands today.
The Gamechanger
Post-Covid Mumbai has bounced back. But it’s not just about footfall. It’s about saving time, improving productivity, and offering predictable mobility.
Unlike autos, locals, or buses, the Metro brings certainty. And when citizens know they’ll reach work in 45 minutes, it boosts quality of life. We value time at MMRDA. That’s why multi-modal integration is critical. We’ve partnered with BEST to restructure routes. Bus stands are being built within 15 metres of Metro stations. Last-mile connectivity will also include Intermediate Public Transport (IPT). This level of planning is already underway.
Trans Harbour Link: Mumbai’s 100-Year Leap
The original plan of Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL) included a Metro corridor integrated into the bridge structure. The idea was to connect Mumbai with Navi Mumbai via Metro, creating a seamless mass transit experience that could serve lakhs of commuters daily. We wanted the Metro to run from Acharya Dhonde Marg near Worli, going underground till Sewri, and then onto the sea bridge—all the way to Ulwe and Navi Mumbai Airport. It would have been a historic first for India: a sea bridge carrying both cars and a Metro.
But as we progressed with the project and got into the structural specifics, technical feasibility became a serious concern. You see, running a Metro on a sea link of that magnitude isn’t a plug-and-play idea. The bridge must be designed to bear heavy dynamic loads and absorb vibrations from both vehicular and rail traffic. It must also meet stringent seismic and wind resistance requirements, especially in a coastal zone.
We brought in COWI, an international consulting firm, to assess the possibility. Their feedback made it clear: retrofitting a Metro onto the existing structure—or even partially modifying it mid-way—would pose significant engineering and long-term safety challenges. It would also mean massive cost escalations and delay the bridge’s primary goal, which was to connect Mumbai with the mainland efficiently by road.
So yes, we had to drop the Metro plan on the MTHL in its current phase. It was a hard decision, but it was the right one at that time.
“Wadala Is Not Just a Location—It’s Mumbai’s Next Leap”
When I was at MMRDA, one of the most exciting opportunities we worked on was the reimagination of Wadala—a location many overlooked, but one that holds the potential to become Mumbai’s next growth epicentre. Originally, this 122-hectare land parcel was reserved for a truck terminus. That made sense in a different era of logistics. But as Mumbai evolved into a global economic hub, we knew this centrally located, well-connected, and ecologically clear land could be put to much more impactful use. So we envisioned something bolder: Mumbai’s third Central Business District (CBD).
We weren’t trying to replicate BKC or Nariman Point. Our goal was to create a next-generation business ecosystem—a hub built around transit-oriented development (TOD), mixed-use planning, and future-proof infrastructure. Wadala is perfectly placed at the intersection of road, rail, and multiple upcoming Metro lines. It can offer what no other CBD in Mumbai currently does: scalability, sustainability, and seamless mobility.
This isn’t just about offices. It’s about integrating commerce with urban life—housing, retail, open spaces, culture, and clean infrastructure all stitched together. Wadala has the right ingredients to attract not just corporates, but also startups, tech innovators, and institutions. And most importantly, it gives Mumbai room to grow, at a time when most of the city’s land bank is drying up.
A Vision Beyond 2030
In the next 2–3 years, Mumbai will undergo a massive transformation. By 2030, we expect 80–90% of the city’s infrastructure plan—including multi modal corridors, Line-3, Line-4, and the Alibag-Virar route—to be complete. This will unlock unprecedented growth.
MMRDA was also finalizing new Greenfield Metro lines, like Line-8 to Navi Mumbai Airport, and working on depot solutions for Lines 3, 4, 5, 7, and 9. Even the long-stuck Metro Bhavan project is back on the table with land now acquired in Dahisar.
Panasonic Brings AI Living to Indian Homes
Panasonic Life Solutions India has launched its flagship Smart Home Experience Centre in New Delhi. The facility offers a dynamic and immersive glimpse into the future of urban Indian living, powered by the company’s proprietary AI-backed platform, Miraie.
The centre is a significant milestone for Panasonic, as it aims to redefine how Indian households interact with technology. At its core, Miraie serves as an intelligent, connected ecosystem—integrating air quality systems, smart lighting, HVAC, security, and kitchen and bathroom solutions through a single mobile interface. Launched in 2020, Miraie has matured into a platform capable of orchestrating everyday appliances to create homes that are not only intelligent but also more sustainable, safe, and responsive to their inhabitants’ needs. Tadashi Chiba, MD & CEO of Panasonic Life Solutions India, added that the centre reflects the company’s focus on holistic well-being. “This initiative showcases how Panasonic’s Japanese innovations can transform homes and commercial spaces into intelligent environments focused on comfort, safety, and sustainability.”
The Experience Centre is tailored for enterprise clients and key stakeholders in real estate—developers, architects, and planners—who are leading the charge in creating net-zero, eco-conscious housing. Visitors can explore fully functional demos, including smart appliances, AI-powered ambient lighting scenarios that change with time or mood, and cutting-edge air purification systems like the NanoeX generators and energy recovery ventilators (ERVs). Manish Misra, Panasonic India’s Chief Innovation Officer, pointed to the synergy of AI and IoT in future homes: “Our focus is clear—wellness, safety, and comfort. The Smart Home Experience Centre is a living example of how we’re turning that vision into reality through Miraie.” Security, another pillar of modern urban living, is seamlessly addressed through Panasonic’s video door phones, PTZ surveillance cameras with NVR capabilities, and integrated guard station support. The interoperability of Miraie is a standout feature—it not only controls Panasonic devices but also connects with Matter protocol-supported third-party products, ensuring that homeowners are not locked into a single brand ecosystem.
What sets this centre apart is its alignment with the broader urban sustainability agenda. Each technology on display contributes to lower carbon footprints, whether through energy savings, enhanced indoor air quality, or reduced human dependency on mechanical operations. From voice-activated controls to predictive appliance maintenance alerts, the innovations showcased at the centre advocate a future where tech empowers and simplifies life. While the centre currently caters to industry professionals by appointment, its long-term vision aligns with India’s urban future—intelligent, inclusive, and environmentally aware. As cities grow denser and smarter, initiatives like these serve as a template for blending high-tech solutions with human-centric design, ensuring that sustainability and digital convenience go hand in hand.
With Miraie at the helm, Panasonic is not just selling smart products—it is scripting a smarter narrative for how India lives.
Panasonic Brings AI Living to Indian Homes
No Water Roads Or Power For Plot Buyers In Bengaluru Layout
A cloud of frustration looms over hundreds of plot allottees in Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Layout (NPKL), as the Karnataka Real Estate Regulatory Authority (K-RERA) heard impassioned pleas last week demanding compensation from the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA).
Years after paying the full cost for residential plots, many owners have been unable to build or occupy their land due to the persistent absence of basic infrastructure, including roads, sewage systems, water supply, and electricity—facilities that were promised but remain elusive. The BDA’s flagship housing project, intended to address the growing demand for urban housing in Bengaluru, has instead become a flashpoint for accountability and citizen rights. At the centre of this brewing storm are families who, despite having fulfilled their financial obligations, find themselves stuck in limbo. With no habitable conditions and no clarity on timelines, many now view the project as a symbol of systemic inefficiency and broken promises.
At the recent hearing, site owners made a compelling case before K-RERA, pressing for compensation on the grounds of undue delay and emotional, financial, and opportunity loss. Their demands include an interest-based compensation pegged to the State Bank of India’s lending rate, along with a monthly interim compensation of ₹100 per square metre for each month of delay. Citing precedents and provisions under the RERA Act, their legal representatives argued that the regulatory body holds the authority to mandate such relief in the interest of justice and fairness.
The absence of amenities has not only disrupted the life plans of several families but has also raised critical questions about the accountability of public authorities in planned urban development. Many allottees, some of whom are senior citizens and retired professionals, voiced concerns over BDA’s continued failure to fulfil its obligations despite collecting public funds. With the physical sites lying uninhabitable, the burden has now shifted from infrastructure delivery to legal redressal.
In a move reflecting mounting citizen pressure, K-RERA acknowledged the validity of the grievances and indicated its support for structured compensation. The matter, however, remains complicated by procedural debates, particularly over the formation of a supervisory committee to oversee the completion of infrastructure works. While K-RERA officials expressed reservations about their legal scope to constitute such a body, the allottees maintained that the RERA Act empowers the authority to intervene meaningfully. Citing a Supreme Court directive in a comparable real estate dispute, they insisted that a monitoring mechanism was essential to prevent further administrative delays.
The BDA’s defence cited challenges in land acquisition and bureaucratic hurdles beyond its control, but these justifications were met with scepticism. Many site owners alleged that the authority’s explanations were insufficient and reflective of a deeper governance failure. Emotions ran high during the hearing, underlining the growing mistrust between citizens and state institutions. With the hearing adjourned to next month, K-RERA is expected to take a clearer stand on both compensation disbursal and the supervisory committee proposal. For now, the residents of Bengaluru wait—not just for the roads and waterlines they were promised, but for a system that recognises their rights as stakeholders in the city’s development.
No Water Roads Or Power For Plot Buyers In Bengaluru Layout
JSW Green Steel bets big on Salav
