HOW THE GOVERNMENT HAS TRANSFORMED ! 26

10 18 42 CHARLES ONLINE! CLEANING CORREA An increasing UP real- (1930-2015) number of KMC’s waste real- The man who buyers are compactor designed the clicking their machines. And Kolkata iconic City way to home how they are Centre in Salt ownership. transforming Lake is no Kolkata. more. tiesKolkata’s only dedicated real estate magazine I Vol 11 I Issue 2 I July-September 2015

THE EMERGING SEISMIC TALLEST HIGH RISE IN KOLKATA THREAT – ! IS MY BUILDING GOING TO 32 BE SAFE FROM THE NEXT EARTHQUAKE?

Land area: 10 acres Number of blocks: 29 MAJHERGAON Number of floors: G+5 Badu Road, Number of apartments: 730 Completion: 2018 Location: Badu Road, Madhyamgram THE DEVELOPER SPEAKS: Unit sizes: 2-BHK ( 851-870 square feet)/ Finally an opprtunity for vibrant urban living amidst the 3-BHK (1,061-1,354 square feet) serenity of nature. Open space: 57.59% Opposite the NSG hub on Badu Road near Madhyamgram Choumatha, Majhergaon will be ensconced by 10 acres of greenery. Home to native birds, regional trees and a large Developer: Srijan, NPR Developers and natural water body, Majhergaon offers 2-BHK and 3-BHK apartments with all modern PS Group amenities. The perfect balance of peace and convenience that you have always desired.

Contact: 033 4040 1010/6620 1010 Email: [email protected] „ COVER STORY „ INSIDE

N. K. Realtors (P) Ltd. 18 9, Elgin Road (4th Floor), ONLINE! Kolkata 700020, An increasing number of buyers Tel: 033 6638 1030 are clicking their way to home Web: www.nkrealtors.com ownership. Poushali Biswas For feedback, write to us at explores why. [email protected]

Network Partner of 34 - Home Loan Partner HAS GOT AN EXCITING FUTURE AHEAD Buyers are now seeking new-age homes in existing 4 neighbourhoods, representing the best of both worlds – the SEISMIC THREAT Editor: Biplab Kumar modern coupled with the familiar. The big question that every apartment buyer is now asking: Is my building A feature increasingly becoming Coordinator: Sanjay Adhikary going to be safe from the next earthquake? According to Pradip Sureka, MD, visible in the Barrackpore-Barasat Proof reader: Sandip Das Sureka Group, high-rises are safer than standalone bungalows when it comes to pocket of Kolkata. and Somyasree Ghosh earthquake resistance. Poushali Biswas reports. Distribution: Abhijit Kar and Bandhu Sundar Ghosh Database management: 38 Sonti Nag DO YOU KNOW THE REAL DR. R. S BHARTIA? Advertising: Anuraj Dhar (+91 9674107979) Meet the promoter behind Fortune City, Fortune Township and the Editorial support and design: newly launched Fortune Heights.

Photographer: Roman Chakravorty

DISCLAIMER 42 The publisher, contributors and editor are not responsible in any way CLEANING UP KOLKATA for the actions or results taken by KMC’s waste compactor machines. any person or organisation on the And how they are transforming basis of reading information, stories or contributions in this publication. Kolkata for the better and cleaner. The views expressed are their own.

For all real estate queries, please call the customer care at: 033 4040 1010 / 6620 1010 anytime between 8 44 a.m. to 10 p.m. (IST), 7 days a week. 12 16 SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY: Content published in real-ties is an KOLKATA GIVES IS PAINT KILLING YOU? MOVING BACK IN TIME exclusive intellectual property of the A unique movement focused on Department of Public Relations and Paint your walls. Inhale fumes. Kolkatans should get ready for a heady bringing donors and NGOs under Corporate Communications – Endanger your health. Newly-found dose of nostalgia as a number of real N. K. Realtors Pvt. Ltd. one roof. evidence suggests new (and alarming) estate projects are mushrooming N.B. For private circulation only, not writing on the wall. We explore the across the city mirroring the grandiose for sale. potential hazards and what you can do architecture of the past. to make your home safer.

July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /2 „ EDITORIAL

Finally a cover story to shake you up! out toxic vapours which can aggravate asthma and cause a number of health When you buy into a new home, you problems. probably ask about ‘loading’, price, location, and instalments. Do you bother to ask about And then we come to one of the most the kind of earthquake proofing the building interesting developments in Kolkata’s has? After the April tremors in Kolkata, an real estate space – a 60-floor high-rise on increasing number of buyers are asking Chowringee – the tallest in the city and one this precise question, especially when of the tallest in the country. The project, selecting to buy into residential high-rises. overlooking the , will not just provide This issue of real-ties explores the subject one of the best views of the city – the rolling while speaking with architects and realty greens, the river and the skyline – but promoters. also be one of the city’s most plush and exclusive. The issue also takes the subject of safety ahead through a discussion of the potential There is also an insightful story on how an hazards of wet paint on painters and increasing number of people are buying residents. We have always been used to the apartments online! initial unusual smell of paint, associating Enjoy! it with freshness. What modern research indicates is alarming; this wet paint sends TEAM NK

CHARLES CORREA (1930-2015) WHEN DID THE - HOME OF THE FUTURE RABINDRA SAROBAR STRETCH WAKE UP? TRANSFORMED! The man who designed the iconic City Rishi Jain, Executive Director, Jain One of the most pleasing developments Centre in Salt Lake is no more...... 10 The 7.8-kilometre-long Garia- Group, speaks about Kolkata’s ‘smart in Kolkata over the last year has been Tollygunge stretch has emerged as one home’ coming up at New Town, the transformation of this 192-acre of the busiest retail destinations of ...... 24 Kolkata ...... 20 national park ...... 26

TALLEST HIGH-RISE IN KOLKATA PHOTO ESSAY WHAT MAKES LAKE DISTRICT FREEWHEELING – THE 42 ONE OF KOLKATA’S BEST Suvomoy Mitra reveals what MAINTAINED PROPERTIES? Mudar Patherya explains how the A conversation with Sudarshana remains quintessentially French in manner in which we use a shared Gangulee, Head of Marketing, Mani The property is respected not only ...... 46 resource in our residential building for the view but also its impeccable Group about the building that is about to tells us actually who we are...... 56 transform the Kolkata skyline ...... 32 maintenance standards ...... 52

July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /3 COVER STORY Seismic threat

Uniworld City, New Town Rajarhat THE BIG QUESTION THAT EVERY APARTMENT BUYER IS NOW ASKING: IS MY BUILDING GOING TO BE SAFE FROM THE NEXT EARTHQUAKE? ACCORDING TO PRADIP SUREKA, MANAGING DIRECTOR, SUREKA GROUP, HIGH-RISES ARE SAFER THAN STANDALONE BUNGALOWS WHEN IT COMES TO EARTHQUAKE RESISTANCE. POUSHALI BISWAS REPORTS T There used to be a time when most buyers would ask real estate promoters ‘Would you provide a club with the apartment?’ In the last few months, the question that most buyers are asking first is, ‘Is the building earthquake-proof?’ This question is relevant for more reasons than just the recent earthquake in Nepal and tremors in Kolkata. Taller buildings are being built in Kolkata than ever before, raising fears that perhaps an earthquake could cause serious issues. Buildings are getting in- creasingly expensive, compelling buyers to ask whether the higher outlays are justified on the grounds of enhanced safety. Buildings are being designed around heavier loads; a recent landmark con- struction in Kolkata provided for a 500 feet-tall structure sitting on the terrace of two adjacent high-rises. There is a growing fear that Kolkata’s high water table is not conducive to high-rises, endanger- ing their safety during an earthquake. Urbana, Anandapur

“There are big questions be- structures resist external to 1,200 milimetres) can come the bolted or welded con- ing raised by prospective forces (loads) and out from the foundation base nections should resist more buyers on whether their protect their safety? and is attached to the ground tension than the ultimate buildings would be equipped floor slab to form a network tension value of the brace (or The question of structural to withstand a lateral move- of concrete embedded around more than the design load) safety begins from the kind ment during an earthquake,” the building space. and should not buckle with of foundation, which is, in says Sujit Kumar Paul, Proj- loads well above the design turn, influenced by building Pile foundation – Offers the ect Manager of Modello Ven- load. Finally, there is a need type, soil and environmental strongest foundation; re- tures LLP. quires specialised engineer- for the load to go down to the conditions. The foundations ing with soil bored deep into ground in a seamless manner. “All buildings are construct- generally used in Kolkata ed to carry their own weight; the earth and filled with con- comprise the following: they are all equipped to do so crete to support a multi-sto- Compliance vertically but not necessarily Pocket or strip foundation rey building. commitment – One of the commonest side-to-side, a crucial factor Besides, a resistance to sway At the heart of the structural foundations built on a strong in case of an earthquake. So loading through robust walls safety of Kolkata’s buildings soil base in non-waterlogged when an earthquake strikes, and partitions helps enhance lies a robust compliance to areas, generally for low-rise the side-to-side movement resistance to earthquakes. The a number of stringent codes buildings (only first floor) creates a tuning fork-like result is that engineers design that enhance structural safety. effect, oscillating with each and ranging from 1,200 mili- roofs, walls and partitions These codes have been pains- wave, potentially damaging metres to 1,500 milimetres. around lightness without takingly debated and created the structure.” Raft foundation – Used in compromising load-bearing to make a greater-than-ad- sandy and loose soil in wa- strength. Wherever possible, equate provision for safety. So what makes terlogged areas but ideal for the walls need to be robust The design requirements of structures earthquake- buildings with few storeys. A enough to shoulder the load the Indian Standard Code ad- resistant? How can ground beam (600 milimetres of tension and compression: dress the use of specific ma-

July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /6 terials that provide adequate marketing tool.” change slope. The fixity of safety against unforeseen lat- the base does not contribute eral movements: Reducing vulnerability to the strength of a building The other means of reduc- but weakens it. IS 13920: These comprised ing the vulnerability of large ductile design and detail- Besides, the ground can ing of earthquake-resistant buildings is to isolate them crack and expand within the structures. from the floor using bear- dimensions of a building, ings or dampers so that the putting enormous pressure IS 1893: Criteria for earth- tremor impact is minimised. on the structure. Hence, the quake-resistant design of This base isolation method foundations of buildings in structure, liquid retaining is a key facet to earthquake earthquake-prone areas are structures, bridges and re- resistant engineering and is required to have a grillage of taining walls, industrial related to passive structural reinforced concrete or steel, structures, dams and em- vibration control technolo- going both ways under all bankments. gies, largely used in Japan. load-supporting members. IS 456: Indian standard for However, this difficult and Such foundations should plain and reinforced con- expensive process is not con- have full strength connec- crete. sidered suitable for low and tions to the columns, and medium-rise buildings. “While the IS Code is fol- should be strong enough to lowed consistently, we are Besides, the foundations of give positional and rotational occasionally requested to earthquake-resistant build- restraint to all the columns. It design structures around ings must permit ground is not possible to make build- the requirements of Seismic movement. Frequently, the ings earthquake-proof to the Zone IV, which makes the foundations of traditional extent that they will resist any structures even more robust buildings are often ‘pinned’ earthquake, but the structures and enhances structural re- but because the bottom of can definitely be made safer dundancy,” says Mr. Sanjiv every wall or column bears and more resilient. Parekh, Structural Consul- down onto the foundations, tant. “There is a general feel- the bases do provide fixity in Not costlier ing that this extensive provi- a static condition. But during So would all this make earth- sion is perhaps not required, an earthquake, the ground is quake-resistant buildings but it is done to enhance buy- not static: it moves up and more expensive? “Structural er confidence and used as a down, side to side, and can safety measures have always

“STAYING INSIDE

URBANA IS SAFER At Urbana a wind tunnel test was DURING AN conducted on scale model (1:400) by CPP Inc, Fort Collins, Colarado, EARTHQUAKE…” USA, to determine structural Pradip Sureka, MD, Sureka Group loads resulting from high-speed winds. Equivalent static structural High-rises are safer than standalone frame loads for a nominal 50-year bungalows when it comes to earthquake recurrence were calculated. Motion- resistance because they are designed around induced occupant discomfort was stringent safeguards. For instance, adequate simulated by predicting maximum modelling techniques have been used with top floor acceleration across computer simulation and model tests before various recurrence levels. structural engineering can even commence in The result is that buildings high-rises. like Urbana are designed to Urbana’s architectural features are centred deal with specific behaviour around this provision. The open spaces patterns manifesting during provided between the structures are large and earthquakes. For instance, comfortable. Adequate spaces are provided to Urbana’s structure withstood accommodate the structural requirement of the recent Kolkata shear walls. The peripheral space around the earthquake without structures is a safe 30 metres. residual strain.

July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /7 been in place, so there is no cover, which includes natural reason for real estate promot- “Before the recent earthquake, structural and man-made calamities, is ers to price projects higher safety never crossed my mind,” says Tarun as low as Rs.60 per Rs.1 lac. because of this,” says Sujit. Chatterjee, a sofware engineer However, less than 1% of the “Safety is not an add-on; it is people who can afford it seek a given. All our engineered home insurance,” says Tapan structures are earthquake-re- willing to pay more. “Before Insurance solution Singhel, MD & CEO of Bajaj sistant. The only difference the recent earthquake, struc- Allianz. This home insur- is that buyers never used to So even though an earth- ance covers rebuilding the tural safety never crossed my bother about structural con- quake cannot be predicted, structure, not the value of struction processes and safe- mind,” says Tarun Chatterjee, the safest thing for buyers the property. Reconstruction guards; they now wish to be a sofware engineer by profes- would be to seek an insurance costs range from Rs.1,800 better informed.” sion, looking for a residential cover. A house destroyed by per square feet for a no- property in Kolkata. “How- an earthquake can be rebuilt frills structure to Rs.3,500 However, even as real estate by setting aside about Rs.6- ever, this is a major concern per square feet for superior developers do not think that 12 a day - the cost of buying construction. A 2,000 square now and one will need to ex- constructing earthquake re- home insurance, which most feet house can be insured for sistant buildings would war- amine specifics and be willing people consider an unneces- Rs.35-70 lac, for which the rant higher pricing, buyers to pay more if needed for en- sary expense. “The premium premium would be roughly indicate that they would be hanced structural safety.” for a standard fire and perils Rs.2,100-4,200 a year.

REALTOR RESPONSIVENESS

So how are Kol- “The important point that apartment buyers need Are they designing their inte- kata’s realtors to remember is that there is a clear provision riors in a manner that makes it responding for building earthquake-resistant structures safer for users and visitors through stringent guidelines,” says Mr. Pawan Are they building Agarwal, Director of NK Realtors. “The result is Are they advising users on stronger homes that most modern buildings in Kolkata, being en- how to safeguard lives during an earthquake Are they using gineered constructions, are safe from an earth- safer materials quake and keep in mind the parameters related to the seismic zone under which Kolkata falls. So the message that needs to go out to prospective buyers is that Kolkata’s modern buildings are not just better-looking or better-equipped; they are safer as well.”

Identifying • Tall, heavy furniture that could topple - bookcases, china cabinets or modular wall units. • Water heaters that could be pulled away from pipes and rupture. • Appliances that could potential move enough to rupture gas or electrical lines. • Hanging plants in heavy pots that could residential swing free of hooks. • Heavy picture frames or mirrors over a bed. • Latches on kitchen cabi- hazards nets or other cabinets that will not hold the door closed during shaking. • Breakables or heavy objects that are kept on high or open shelves. • A masonry chimney that could crumble and fall through an unsupported roof. • Flammable liquids (painting or cleaning products), which would be safer outside home. (Source: FEMA)

July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /8 What Can Can internal How How safe customised high-rise architecture differently are the old materials are buildings - ceilings, does a high- buildings in used in high- withstand flooring and rise have to Kolkata? rises? earthquakes walls - affect be built? If the older buildings It would be pertinent of 7.9 on structural There is no are engineered to indicate that IS 456- the Richter safety? fundamental constructions then 2000 recommends difference. For there is a likelihood The interior elements designated concrete Scale? high-rises, one uses of their being as safe are non-structural mixes across grades High-rise buildings specific building as new constructions. and even as they may (M10, M15, M20, M25, can indeed be materials compliant The difference is all get damaged they M30, M35 and M40); damaged by tremors with ISC norms; about calculations; have no bearing on the letter M refers to of 7-8 on the Richter besides, concrete what was manual in structural stability. the mix and number scale, though a testing is undertaken those days is largely For instance, brick to the specified 28- well-engineered at University, computerised today. walls are non- day cube strength of building, executed as IIT Kharagpur, BE structural; wall mix in N/mm2. M25 per specifications, is College and other cracks do not affect is used in G+4 storied unlikely to collapse. accredited labs. structural safety; on building; in high-rise Even as there is no the contrary, walls buildings, M30–M40 is governing authority/ help dissipate the normally used. As far rating in existence, stress. as steel is concerned, testing at each step “A well-engineered building is the Fe500 variety is of any engineered unlikely to collapse in an earthquake” used in reinforced construction is cement concrete, considered adequate – Sanjiv Parekh, architect indicating that the bar to earthquake-proof Sanjiv Parekh is the Founder and Director the buildings. of SPA Consultants, a Kolkata-based scan safely withstand structural engineering firm a yield stress of 500 N/mm2. Besides, aerocon blocks are an excellent substitute for clay bricks and hollow concrete blocks in wall construction. Soil capacity is an important determinant of what kind of foundation be built to reinforce structural safety.

South City, CHARLES CORREA (1930-2015) “Being able to see the sky from within a building can make a difference between livable habitat and claustrophobia.” – Charles Correa

he man who designed the structure was none other than Charles the significance of his Asian identity iconic City Centre in Salt Correa. In the other malls of the city, you as an architect far outweighs that of Lake is no more. Charles can be made to believe that you are in him being an Indian architect.” – Romi TCorrea passed away on 16 Singapore or wherever; City Centre, is Khosla, renowned architect June 2015. Kolkata, Kolkata and Kolkata. z “He made architecture a magic word The history of Salt Lake can be z “Charles Correa was the inspiration and instilled in all of us architects a segregated into two parts – before City behind the infusion of modernity into sense of pride in our profession. His Centre and after City Centre. Indian architecture after 1947.” - Prakash true genius was how he never grew Deshmukh, President, Indian Institute old. He was so relevant to society and City Centre was more than a mall; in of Architects community in every decade of his life.” fact, a mall it is not. It has no walls. It is – Brinda Somaya , Principal Architect not air-conditioned. It has a bazaar-like z “He was arguably the most significant and Managing Director, Somaya & feel. It has an adda corner. contemporary architect of Asia. His work Kalappa Associates was neither modern nor traditional, and The man behind this truly Kolkatan

July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /10 The Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, Lisbon

CHARLES CORREA (1930-2015)

z Born in Secunderabad to Goan parents z Got Ismail Centre, Toronto his master’s degree in City Centre, Kolkata Architecture from University of Michigan z Obtained a master’s degree from Massachusetts Institute of Technology z Had a weakness for model trains z Chief Architect of Navi ; designed more than 100 buildings in India z Took a deep Aga Khan Museum in Toronto interest in how architecture frames relationships z “Navi Mumbai wouldn’t have happened work front. But personally, he was between people and if he hadn’t participated in the initial extremely warm and I must concede that their environment z His conceptualisation team along with he was always affectionate towards me.” creations were marked by Shirish Patel and Pravina Mehta as is his – Harshavardhan Neotia, Chairman, open spaces, incorporating work in housing in relation to climate Ambuja Neotia Group natural ventilation and and lifestyle.” - B V Doshi, pioneering z “He never cared for anybody while passive energy z Named architect expressing his opinions and did not India’s Greatest Architect by z “Sometimes he did not like what we mince words while doing so. I liked his the Royal Institute of British did. At others, we, perhaps, did not way of working; he was very methodical. Architects in 2013 understand what he wanted. And then Basically, he was a good man at heart. That there were times when he also changed was why when we thought of drawing up a new regional plan for Goa, the name that his mind. Whatever be the case, he made A Luminous Life came to mind, who would guide us in this us undo what was done to get things the – Padma Vibhushan, 2006 way he wanted. I was on tenterhooks task, was Charles Correa.” – Digambar – The International Union and had the most trying times on the Kamat, former CM, Goa of Architects,(UIA) Gold Medal, 1990 Charles Correa’s creations – Japan’s Praemium Gandhi Memorial, Sabarmati • City Centre I, Kolkata • Inter-University Imperiale, 1994 Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics, Pune • Bharat Bhavan, Bhopal – Aga Khan Award for • Vidhan Bhavan, Bhopal • Jawahar Kala Kendra, Jaipur • National Crafts Architecture, 1998 Museum, • Brain Science Center, MIT, Massachusetts • Ismaili Centre, Toronto • Champalimaud Centre, Lisbon – Royal Gold Medal, 1984 ANALYSIS Is paint killing you?

PAINT YOUR WALLS. INHALE FUMES. ENDANGER YOUR HEALTH. NEWLY-FOUND EVIDENCE DEPICTS AN ALARMING WRITING ON THE WALL. WE EXPLORE THE POTENTIAL HAZARDS AND WHAT YOU CAN DO TO MAKE YOUR HOME SAFER.

aint your walls. Inhale fumes. our bodies triggers headaches and nausea Danish researchers point to the added Endanger your health. (Sick Building Syndrome) and can lead possibility of neurological damage. There is a growing debate on to longer-term health issues like eczema, This issue is becoming increasingly relevant Pwhether paints are safe and asthma and a permanent multi-chemical for a number of reasons. The housing rev- usable. The reality is that conventional sensitivity. olution in India coupled with Housing for emulsion paints, synthetic and petro- The World Health Organisation has re- All by 2022 programme, has put a premium leum derivative chemicals in paints evap- ported a 20%-40% increased risk of cer- on health. The irony is that at a time when orate and emit noxious gases. When we tain types of cancer (in particular lung there is an increasing focus on green build- live at home, we inhale these fumes and cancer) for those who come into regular ings when the irony is that following hando- endanger our lives. The chemical load in contact with, or work with paint while ver, some of the benefits could be frittered

July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /12 90 ppm

Lead limit enforced by the United States 1,000 ppm

Voluntary lead limit set by Indian paint companies

through irresponsible paint use. and long-term adverse effects on health. could suffer from stunted growth, brain So the big question is this: as we build VOCs are emitted by a wide array of and nervous system damage, hearing more homes in the next few years than products including paints, lacquers and problems, behavioural-cum-learning ever before, will we endanger our health paint strippers. The ingredients used in problems (like hyperactivity) and per- in the process? spray paints comprise acetone, liquefied sistent headache. petroleum gas, xylene, n-butyl acetate, Adult women can suffer from complica- Reality: Spray paint fumes have a methyl ethyl ketone, propylene glycol, tions during pregnancy as well as other negative effect on health monobutyl ether, ethyl benzene, magne- reproductive problems. Pregnant women Many standard professional-grade spray sium silicate and carbon black. The result can pass lead poisoning to their children paints contain volatile organic com- is that when fumes are emitted, we stand via the bloodstream. Lead contamination pounds. Volatile organic compounds a chance of inhaling a varied cocktail. can also cause digestive problems, nerve are emitted as gases from certain solids Lead-based paints can have severe health disorders, memory and concentration or liquids and include a variety of chem- effects on children. If undetected early, problems, high blood pressure, and pain icals, some of which may have short children with high lead concentrations in muscles and joints.

July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /13 ufacturer’s instructions in how to man- age the paint’s toxic ingredients should be honoured. The work area should be cleaned before, during and after painting. Waste should be disposed each day.

Solution To reduce the hazard, buy only as much paint as you need and use it all. Measure the area to be painted to determine the quantity needed. Buy the least hazard- ous product for your specific job. Wa- ter-based latex paints generally have few- er toxic and inflammable solvents. If you do have leftover paint, give it away to others who can use it, if possible. Otherwise, keep it tightly sealed in the original can. Store it in a well-ventilat- ed area away from extreme heat, cold or flame sources, and away from children. Store the can upside down to form a seal around the lid and preserve the paint’s quality since some paints can stay use- Stripping off old paint using a blow lamp extractors is recommended. Three, ade- able for 15 or more years. or by scraping it off walls can expose quate ventilation and a mask could defi- the lead in old paint, which can then be nitely be used. Lead-based paints are not typically haz- inhaled. Stripping walls might expose ardous if they are in good condition. When it comes to residents, there could mould — spores are then released in the Lead dust forms when lead-based paint be safeguards. The accurate estimation atmosphere which one breathes in. These is scraped, sanded, or heated. Dust also of paint quantities needed could help build up in the lungs causing mucus ac- forms when painted surfaces bump to- minimise waste. The use of eco-friend- cumulation, breathing difficulties and ly paints, coatings, accessories, and gether. Lead chips and dust can settle on potential asthmatic trouble. techniques could be an alternative. For surfaces and objects people touch. Lead dust can also re-enter the air when peo- How we may protect ourselves instance, quality emulsion paints offer ple vacuum or sweep it. If painting the There are a number of safeguards for not just an all-round performance but exterior of an older house is required, it is those working with paints. One, wear- also represent a superior choice (sol- ing recommended personal protective vent-based paints require users to ex- recommended to use contractors trained equipment would help. Two, the use of ercise caution). The use of lead-based to remove lead-based paint. realreal-- appropriate spray enclosures and fume paints could be discouraged. The man- ties

VOC Exposure limits Symptoms Affected areas

Acetone NIOSH REL: TWA 250 Irritation to the eyes, nose and throat, headache, dizziness, Eyes, skin, respiratory ppmOSHA PEL: TWA depression and dermatitis system, central nervous 1000 ppm system

Xylene NIOSH REL: TWA 100 Irritation to the eyes, skin, nose and throat, dizziness, Eyes, skin, respiratory ppmOSHA PEL: TWA excitement, drowsiness, staggering gait, corneal vacuolisation, system, central nervous 100 ppm anorexia, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and dermatitis system, gastrointestinal tract, blood, liver and kidneys

Toluene NIOSH REL: TWA 100 Irritation to the eyes, nose, weakness, exhaustion, confusion, Eyes, skin, respiratory ppmOSHA PEL: TWA euphoria, dizziness, headache, dilated pupils, lacrimation, system, central nervous 200 ppm anxiety, muscle fatigue, insomnia, paresthesia, dermatitis, liver system, liver, kidneys and kidney damage

July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /14 Land area: 3.14 acres Number of blocks: 16 RENAISSANCE Number of floors: G+4 Number of apartments: 252 Completion time: 2018 SMART HOMES Burdwan Location: Burdwan THE DEVELOPER SPEAKS: Unit sizes: 735-812 square feet (2-BHK); Efficiently designed buildings with modern facilities and 958 and 984 square feet (3-BHK) amenities, it offers 2-BHK and 3-BHK apartments with spacious rooms, a utility balcony, elevators, and among many other facilities for great and affordable living. Giving you Open space: 70% complete living pleasure and a gateway to the lifestyle you always wanted – a school, Developer: Shrachi Burdwan Developers hospital, club and shopping complex located within the premises. Bringing modern living Pvt. Ltd. to the ‘Royal Heritage City.’ Renaissance Smart Homes are homes for the future.

Contact: 033 4040 1010/6620 1010 Email: [email protected] Moving back in

timeKolkatans should get ready for a heady dose of nostalgia as a number of real estate projects are mushrooming across the city drawing on the grandiose architecture of the past. Kolkata’s iconic Metro Cinema set to don a new look ne of the oldest cinema halls in Designed by New York-based architect Thom- the city, Metro Cinema, is all set as Lamb, the hall was once used by Met- to get a new look. Inaugurated in ro-Goldwyn-Mayer to promote their films in the 1935, Metro Cinema, still stands city. Way Out West was the first film to be screened tall on Jawaharlal Nehru Road. here. The same theatre ran Bobby for 52 weeks OBut sans movie buffs, the grand chandeliers have in 1973. Hence, the new mall would also have a gathered a thick film of dust. All that, however, section commemorating the 70’s blockbuster. shall soon be a thing of the past. Art Deco detailing, ranging from grand chande- Inspired by the success at Metro Mumbai, the liers, stained glass windows, to brass railings and owner of Metro Cinema - Metro Realty, have period wooden doors and furniture, will continue decided to start renovation work at their Kolkata to be a part of the property. The owners are also in property soon with an investment of Rs.40 crore. talks with a multiplex chain, some F&B majors and The death of single screen theatres is not a new a few retail players for an anchor store. thing in the city but with Metro, Kolkata would wel- Metro’s strategic location on Esplanade makes it come another boutique mall and multiplex out of a prized property even today. Though the present a heritage structure. Spread over 8,50,000 square rental value of the current unorganised commer- feet, the Grade-III heritage building currently has cial properties in the area is about Rs.400 per just two floors allocated to it. Post-renovation, the square feet, with Metro giving way to a boutique property named Metro Emporium would be divid- mall, rentals are bound to go up. ed between a retail, multiplex and F&B wing.

Kolkata to have a residential complex modelled on Victoria Memorial

Recreating the nostalgic magic of the bygone era, a new residential project is being built on the lines of the iconic Victoria Memorial’s facade. A joint venture between real estate major Jain Group and the Das family, who own a land parcel on B T Road near Noapara, the ‘Dream Victoria’ premium housing project’s facade, arches and columns would be reminiscent of Victoria Memorial. With a built-up area of more than 3,30,000 square feet, the project is expected to be ready in the next three or four years at an investment of over Rs.80 crore and will have more than 200 flats.

Tram depot lease plan revived

he State Government has decided congested zones, rewarding the real estate sector. to offer surplus land at Tollygunge The new policy aims to allow higher FAR, which and tram depots for com- governs the size of a building on a particular plot. mercial utilisation on lease of 99 Consulting firm KPMG was recruited as transac- years, with the option of renewal of tion adviser and legal firm Fox and Mandal was Tthe terms. The request for the proposal document engaged to oversee the legalities. for each individual depot is separate and selec- Seven companies had bid for Tollygunge and tion of the lessee for each depot will be through a three for Belgachia. Among those who had bid for separate competitive bidding process. The land Tollygunge were Shapoorji Pallonji, a consortium parcel available on lease at the Tollygunge depot is led by Tata Housing, Ambuja Realty and NBCC, a 241 cottahs. At Belgachia, the available land parcel Central Government enterprise. A consortium led is 59 cottahs. by Merlin Projects was among the companies that Since the new building rules would ensure more had bid for the Belgachia land. built-up area, the authorities decided to cancel the With the new building policy in place, the com- bids and offer a level playing field to those who pany bagging the tender in Tollygunge will earn would like to make a fresh pitch. Rs.39 crore more than what it would have earned Last August, an urban policy was unveiled that under earlier rules. The additional earning for the sought to unlock construction opportunities in Belgachia depot will be around Rs.3 crore.

Victoria Memorial, Kolkata July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /17 An increasing number of buyers are clicking their way to home ownership. Poushali Biswas explored why Online! here was a time trust, why are more and more big reason for this transfor- try’s largest real estate company when buyers buyers intending to buy without mation. Earlier, if a promoter for not protecting consumer visited realty even visiting the project site or under-delivered, the consum- interests. The result of these marketing of- shaking the promoter’s hand? er had no choice but to be at realities is that there is greater fices, studied “In the last few years,” says Bi- the receiving end. Times have confidence now in the country’s Tbrochures, observed apartment real estate development indus- plab Kumar, AVP, Corporate changed considerably in the last models and even visited sample try than ever.” Communication and Custom- few years. Consumer democra- apartments before they agreed er Care, NK Realtors, “there cy is stronger than ever. If a pro- to buy. Developments has been a sea change in buyer moter under-delivers, there is There are other developments These days, an increasing num- attitudes and that’s because of always the possibility that a few that are making industry observ- ber of buyers are selecting to some pertinent reasons. One, posts online could destroy the ers sit up and take notice. 99acres, buy online. That’s right, online. there has been a greater em- promoter’s reputation. There is a prominent Indian property As simply as sitting in one’s phasis on property standard- also a stronger legal redressal portal, announced a flash online chair, clicking a few buttons and isation as a result of which if a system for consumers and if sale of properties in June 2015, paying online. promoter promises something, anyone needs proof, one has to offering projects between Rs.15 In a business that was conven- the commitment is more likely only look to how the judiciary lac and Rs.20 crore in Mumbai, tionally marked by a deficit of to be honoured. There is one system has penalised the coun- Delhi-NCR, Bangalore, Pune

July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /18 So why are more and more line buyers seek is a CREDAI Tata Housing sold a people purchasing what is usu- (Confederation of Real Estate luxury property for ally the largest asset purchase Developers’ Association of In- Rs. 5.5 crore online. in an individual’s life, online? dia) membership. If a property “In the last few years, there has company is affiliated to CRE- A Mumbai resident been a noticeable trend among DAI, it enhances credibility. booked a 4-BHK NRIs wanting to buy properties apartment at The “From being perceived as a lead in India,” says Biplab, “and the Promont (Bangalore) generator, the online platform reality is that they cannot fly for Rs.4.5 crore – again is now seen as a medium where online. down only to inspect a prop- consumers are increasingly erty and then decide that they calling the shots. While ful- Snapdeal marketed a would not want to buy. The re- fillment is still less, the online Tata Housing unit for sult is that buyers would rather Rs.1.1 crore within platform is making a definitive go online and conclude a deal hours of commencing impact right across the buying within minutes.” sale. cycle of a home seeker,” says Tipping point Sudhir Pai, CEO, Magicbricks. Tata Housing marketed So what convinces people to 1,500 apartments online, 25% of its buy? What is the tipping point? Online virality The online virality has ex- Rs.1,100 crore sales. There are a number of triggers tended to Kolkata as well. For Tata Housing that have piqued the interest of years, prominent realtor Sid- purchasers. conducted an online dha invested in physical sales. exhibition to sell 200 One, the credibility of property “When we launched Siddha housing units over 11 brands has grown; buyers place WaterFront, Khardah,” says projects in seven cities. faith in a property brand that Ashish Ganeriwala, Head, has established its presence over Marketing & Communica- Users can explore properties in a period of time. Establishing an tions, “we were pleasantly Kolkata and – du- online presence is merely one surprised, especially since the plexes, bungalows, penthouses, step ahead from there. project was being marketed office and retail spaces – on the in Khardah and surrounding Two, buyers recognise that a go. Prospective customers can areas. Follow- company that has invested in a take informed decisions on the 3D walkthrough coupled with ing this, we are investing more basis of photos, videos, interac- online purchase would be con- in online marketing. This tive maps and other property siderably more credible (systems, trend is here to stay. Online details. The service simplifies processes and practices) than marketing, we feel, will play a competitor that has bothered a major role in years to come property search by allowing to do neither. The result is that as it will offer better ROIs. We house-hunters to use a single these systems are now becoming have a dedicated online team platform. The company took and Chennai. The international a new benchmark of promoter constantly working towards this initiative ahead through giant, Softbank funded a start- credibility. servicing our customers as the launch of Home Fiesta, its up called Housing to market well as reaching to our target Three, buyers do a comprehen- online property festival in the properties online. The start-up, audience through the digital sive due diligence of what has month of March 2015, selling medium. Every fifth sale ap- with US$120 million in its kitty, been posted online before they 70 properties. pears to come from the on- acquired a real estate portal (In- select to buy. “Most online buy- line mode.” This sentiment Brotin Banerjee, CEO & MD, dian Real Estate Forum) to wid- ers – this is true for NRIs – are is echoed by Dr. R.S. Bhartia, Tata Housing, said in an in- en its services. 99acres mobilised more aware of ground realities Director, Fortune Realty. “We terview that he expects 30% US$125 million from Info Edge than prospective buyers who live established an online pres- of housing sales to come from through a qualified institutional in Kolkata,” says Biplab. “They ence five years ago and today the online medium. “This is placement. The Google Capi- are aware of peer neighbour- approximately 20% of our tal-backed Commonfloor raised hoods, proximity to landmarks, the future,” says Pawan Agar- business is generated via on- significant funding and started price movements and prices wal, Director, NK Realtors, line portals.” acquiring competing startups. of comparative properties. The “and anyone who misses this Snapdeal plans to reach out to online buyer is a serious and Mobile app universal opportunity is likely NRI customers willing to invest well-informed buyer, no doubt.” The NK Realtors app has taken to miss the bus.” in India. Four, the trust mark that on- user experience to a new level.

July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /19 RETAIL OVERVIEW

WHEN DID THE GARIA-TOLLYGUNGE STRETCH WAKE UP? THE 7.8 KILOMETRE GARIA-TOLLYGUNGE STRETCH HAS EMERGED AS ONE OF THE BUSIEST RETAIL DESTINATIONS IN KOLKATA. THE STRETCH IS MARKED BY DIVERSE RETAIL STOREFRONTS, MARKETING A RANGE OF PRODUCTS FROM CONSUMER DURABLES TO FASHION TO PROVISIONS. WHAT MAKES THIS POCKET TICK?

Upward curve “People buy homes wherev- ceived an unprecedented About 30 years ago, Kolkata er the Metro extends. More boost. Garia-Tollygunge was virtually ended at Prince An- homes mean more consump- connected to the longest road war Shah Road. Not many tion. More consumption in Kolkata. Gradually, new lived beyond. Those who means more stores. More residential properties were did were considered ‘opaar’. stores mean more econom- launched. Residential projects Then something happened. ic activity – and traffic. This like Victoria Greens, West- The Metro connected the rest is the brief history of the wind, Orbit City, Sugam Park, of Kolkata with Tollygunge. Garia-Tollygunge stretch.” Sherwood Estate and Upohar T When this transpired, some Then came the EM Bypass transformed the stretch and of the growth extended a cou- kicker. The arterial areas re- the hinterland. “Transformation?!” Dulalba- ple of kilometres down from Percentage spread of various retail categories bu exclaims. “You would have Tollygunge. The Metro line 50% Diamond Harbour Road was extended again in 2009 40% to travel back just 20 years. NSC Bose Road when four stations were added This was not even a part of 30% (, , Nakta- Kolkata. ‘Oto dur e thaken?’ 20% people would ask me. I would la and Garia Bazaar), which 10% not venture out after 9 pm and proved to be the turning point. 0% one would have to pay the taxi “A Metro station means rapid F&B store Home Clinic/ growth,” says Tapesh Bhan- Others a lot extra to just come to this footwear Pharmacy Electronics Apparel andApparel Automobiles Supermarket Departmental part of town.” dari, a resident for 15 years. improvememt

July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /20 On NSC Bose Road • Titan • Adidas • Bata • LG • Senco Jewellers • Jharkrafts • Sreeleathers • Spencer’s • Domino’s • Arambagh • Nokia • Gupta Brother’s • Café Coffee Day

The retail destination A study conducted by Cush- feet have transformed the between domestic and foreign So what caused the retail man and Wakefield substanti- economics in favour of high- brands on NSC Bose Road at boom in the area? “One of the ates her assessment. NSC Bose street shopping. 79:21. “There will always be ways in which shopping has Road has been identified as The result is an explosion in a room for high-street retail,” transformed is that it has be- one of the two most promising the range of retail brands along says Munmun Biswas, GM, come more hub-driven,” says retail destinations in Kolkata. the stretch. This stretch has Jharkrafts. “You can’t drive Kiran Biswas, a Garia resident How is that for endorsement?! become a key market for every into a mall and pay Rs.60 for range of product starting from parking, when all you want to for 23 years. “Who wants to What drives this surge go to New Market and malls apparels, cosmetics, accesso- do is buy specialised handi- The principal factor driving in South Kolkata? Who wants ries, furniture to coffee shops, crafts.” the retail revolution has been service stores and hangouts. to negotiate the traffic? Who The Tollygunge-Garia stretch the affordable rents of stores From Sreeleathers to Adidas, wants to beg taxis to bring us extends from Tollygunge along the stretch. Compared from Café Coffee Day to Gup- back to Garia? Better to shop to store space in Gariahat, the ta Brothers, the number of op- Tram Depot, Ashoknagar, on this stretch without park- retail rent on the Garia-Tolly- tions is mindboggling. Large Ranikuthi, Netaji Nagar, Bans- ing or commuting problems. gunge stretch is considerably swathes of quality retail space droni, , touching Raja The biggest draw for me is lower. When retailers pay is being constructed at pres- SC Mullick Road at Garia and that everything (daily necessi- less, they can pass the benefit ent and will further boost this passing through Rajpur-So- ties to branded lifestyle prod- on to customers. The result area as a thriving retail spot. narpur along Garia, Naren- ucts) can be found on a single is that monthly retail rentals Besides, Cushman and Wake- drapur to Harinabhi up to the stretch. Really convenient!” of around Rs.60 per square field indicated a breakdown southern fringes of Kolkata.

July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /21 Land area: 3.2 acres Number of blocks: 4 DREAM ONE Number of floors: Blocks 1, 2 and 3: NEW TOWN G+14; Block 4: G+7 THE DEVELOPER SPEAKS: We are happy to announce that we have launched a new Number of apartments: 229 (Blocks 1 project, Dream One. Located opposite Ecopark and Westin Hotel in New Town-Rajarhat, and 2: 92, Blocks 3 and 4: 137) Dream One will bring future-ready intelligent homes for the first time to Kolkata, allowing Completion time: 54 Months From the residents to control their homes from their smartphones or tablets. Date of Commencement + 6 Months To support the technology, we have introduced Augmented Reality, wherein our Grace Period customers can get a flavour of their prospective home in a unique interactive manner. Location: Major Arterial Road, Action We are also setting up an Experience Centre at the project site in collaboration with a Area-II, New Town technological team from Bangalore, Google and the realty portal commonfloor.com. Our customers will get a 360-degree experience of our project - interior and exterior views - Unit sizes: 2-BHK (945-1135 square feet); through Google Glasses. 3-BHK (1240-2270 square feet); 4-BHK (2380-2720 square feet); Penthouse We are delighted to share that our project has been warmly welcomed by the people of (2910-3980 square feet) Kolkata and we are confident that the introduction of this lifestyle-enhancing technology will boost customer sentiment. Developer: Jain Group

Contact: 033 4040 1010/6620 1010 Email: [email protected] Land area: 2.42 acres Number of blocks: 3 SHRACHI Number of floors: G+6 Number of apartments: Block I: 48, Block II: 72, Block III: 48 GREEN VIEW Completion time: Phase-wise development, by 2018 DURGAPUR THE DEVELOPER SPEAKS: Greenview intends to become an integral part of the young Location: Bamunara, Durgapur and growing township of Durgapur. Located near NH#2 and Muchipara, the project Unit sizes: 2, 2.5-BHK (977 to 1,233 comprises three towers with a wide range of facilities: landscaped gardens, children’s play square feet); 3-BHK (1,172 to 1,253 area, daily needs store, doctor’s chamber, well-equipped AC gym, AC community hall, square feet) library, well-lit pathways and many more. Offering a comfortable and modern lifestyle amidst abundant greenery. Open space: 70% Shrachi Greenview will bring a different dimension to the growth of Durgapur and, in the Developer: Shrachi Group (under the coming years, we will be offering more such projects to address the housing needs of name of Spectra Realcon LLP) Durgapur residents.

Contact: 033 4040 1010/6620 1010 Email: [email protected] HOME OF TH

ow many times have you been halfway on your way to the office when you felt unsure of whether you had Hturned the geyser off? Or rushed back because no one else was home when your friends arrived? Or worried yourself sick because you were not sure if you had locked the door while leaving? Rishi Jain, Executive Director, Jain Group, speaks about Dream One, coming up at New Town- Rajarhat which has a novel solution.

What is a ‘smart home’? of lifestyle they only saw in movies. It is about A smart or intelligent home is one that enables aspiration, ease and a better lifestyle. technology-supported living. In Dream One, What is the customer profile you are we have introduced features that are the first- looking at? of-their-kind in Kolkata – mood lighting, access-controlled digital doors, panic buttons, We expect to address both the tech-savvy and fire and gas alarms, among others. All the items the technophobe. The idea is to improve the can be controlled with smartphones and tablets. way we live and the way we function. If a mere click can put one’s mind at ease or reduce the Is this the first such project in India? hassles of urban living, imagine how much more time and energy would be saved. Once Yes, Dream One is the first ‘Intelligent Home’ in more people realise that, like so many already India. This technology is being put to use across have, they will opt for smarter living. the world in developed countries. Why should India be left behind? How will security concerns regarding this be addressed? For instance, if one’s Why has the demand for such living tablet is stolen, will it provide access to arisen? an intruder? Lives are getting increasingly hectic and Nowadays, reporting one’s stolen smartphone or technology-dependent. The demand for living tablet is a matter of minutes. We will have a top- in premium and technologically advanced notch technical team that will make sure that homes has grown. What customers will get at security and other concerns are addressed within Dream One is not just a premium home, but an minutes of lodging the information with us. ‘intelligent’ home. Residents will have the kind E FUTURE 3.2 ACRES

4 BLOCKS, 229 APARTMENTS

2, 3 AND 4-BHK WITH PENTHOUSE THE GATES There used to be a crossbar here once. This has been replaced by a grand gate at the principal entrance to the Rabindra Sarobar (adjoining Safari Park). The other revamped gate is at the start of Southern Avenue near Southern Park. THE TILED FLOORING The flooring used to be concrete. The tiled pathway provides a pleasing look. THE CHAINED RAILS The open interface with the lake has been replaced with chained rails as a decorative deterrent. THE LIGHTS The lights have encouraged a number of people to step out in the evening for a walk because the place appears safer and more aesthetic. THE GREEN SPACE This part of the Sarobar appears greener; in the past the grass cover used to be patchy exposing the soil. Rabindra Sarobar transformed! One of the most pleasing developments in Kolkata over the last year has been the transformation of this 192-acre national park Anjan Ghosh captures the metamorphosis. The grand gate that has replaced the crossbar

Aesthetically sculpted statues heighten the beauty of the place

The addition of greenery has enhanced the beauty of Rabindra Sarobar The prudent use of terracotta

The light and sound show that is conducted each evening at the Rabindra Sarobar

Tallest high-rise 42THE in Kolkata

Architect Hafeez Contractor, Mumbai

Interior designer PIA Interior, Bangkok

Landscaping agent Design Cell, New Delhi hristened ‘The 42’, the 240-metre tall building on 42B Chowringee that once belonged to the Maharaja of , is a super-luxury residential project. According to Mani Group CEO Sanjay Jhunjhunwala, who is leading a consortium of four groups to develop C the landmark, “The 42 will be the conversation-maker for Kolkata.” Alcove and Diamond Groups from Kolkata and Sattva Group from Bangalore make up the quartet entrusted with the responsibility of erecting what is set to emerge among the tallest buildings in India. Sudarshana Gangulee, Head of Marketing, Mani Group, joins us in conversation to answer questions most people have been eager to ask.

360 degree panorama of the city including X Proximity card reader with boom barrier/ 1 What made you decide to build the lush greens in front and the river in the bollard control the tallest high-rise, a 60-storeyed distance. structure, in Kolkata? How do you X Swipe card access to entrance lobby and lifts expect to create the excitement 4 Can you tell us more on tech- X Biometric front door lock around this tallest high-rise? nologies that will be used within the X Video phone monitoring at the front door Any physical attribute like ‘tallest’ or ‘big- premises and other maintenance and entrance lobby gest’ in terms of any man-made endeavour provisions? can generally never be permanent. What For vertical transportation, The 42 will have What will be the configuration of is tallest today can be improved upon to- 6 four high-speed passenger elevators along the apartments in The 42? morrow. At one time, Hiland Park wowed with one service elevator and one goods The 42 will have 56 simplex apartments – Kolkata by becoming the tallest building in elevator. The MLCP block will have three the city. It was soon overshadowed by South one per floor – and one triplex apartment. passenger elevators and one dedicated ser- City; Urbana will be even taller. Hence, we The simplex apartments will be of two siz- vice elevator. have not been carried away with the idea of es (depending on the area of the attached creating excitement by building the ‘tallest’ The building will have 24x7 power supply sky balcony) – 7,780 square feet and 7,815 high-rise in Kolkata. However, upon com- with 100%-power backup. There will be an square feet, respectively. They will come pletion, The 42 is set to become the tallest instant change over between mains and an with the option of four, five or six bedrooms. structure in the city. auto synchronised DG set using a PLC sys- tem. Our lightning protection system will 7 It is clearly a high-profile proj- 2 Tell us about the architecture be in compliance with IS 2309 norms. ect. Who do you see emerging as the and interior style of The 42. buyers? Quite understandably, The 42 will have With its slender massing, The 42 makes for advanced fire detection, alarm and sup- The 42 is a symbol of sophistication and will a distinctive and elegant tower. The awe-in- pression systems as per stringent norms, redefine luxury living the way it has been spiring 13 metre-high ground floor lobby including hydrant and sprinkler systems, perceived in this city. The target custom- will be truly imposing. The apartments have external fire hydrant with hose cabinet lo- er set would comprise corporate honchos, been desighned to be spacious and luxuri- cated at strategic locations, and addressable senior professionals, business leaders, and ous. They are designed in two distinct styles type fire detection and alarm system with people from families who now prefer to – classic and contemporary – and will be multi-sensor smoke detectors (for common look at the practicality of a high-end apart- ment with a large floor plate compared to an carefully crafted and slickly finished. areas only). independent house. Besides, we expect that The premises will be Wi-Fi-enabled along Other than being the tallest, NRIs and NRBs with a Kolkata connect will 3 with signal boosters to ensure consistent what else sets The 42 apart from be interested. high-speed connectivity. other high-rises? 8 Does this project comply with What sets The 42 apart is the fact that it is 5 Tell us more about the con- green building specifications? truly an iconic address. Located in the heart struction specifications and the Yes it does. The 42 has been bestowed with in Kolkata’s historic and enchanting thor- safety measures in place. the ‘Gold’ pre-certification under the IGBC oughfare – Chowringee, The 42 will bring The completed building will offer some tru- to Kolkatans the aura of majestic living with Green Homes rating. ly state-of-the-art safety, security and access landmark architecture and stellar interiors. control systems to ensure complete peace- When do you expect the project The building has one lavish bungalow apart- 9 of-mind for the residents. These include: to be completed? ment per floor and a triplex unit on top.

Each of them will provide an unforgettable X 24x7 vigilance facility with CCTV cameras We expect to complete the project by end-2017.

July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /33 ExcitingBarrackpore-Barasat f

July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /34 The Barrackpore- Barasat pocket combines modernity with future familiarity

s consumers mature, the valueA of investing in pin codes whose prospects are attractive becomes more important than investing in saturated areas. The result is that an increased interest in a reinventing Kolkata pocket like Barrackpore-Barasat.

Gated community homes were once considered beyond the reach of the middle-class. Times are now changing. Buying power is improving and gated apartment affordability is rising. The result is that buyers are now seeking new-age homes in existing neighbourhoods, representing the best of both worlds – the modern coupled with the familiar. A feature increasingly becoming visible in the Barrackpore-Barasat pocket of Kolkata.

Slice of history A number of residents like to live in places with a slice of history – and community. Barrackpore and Barasat possess layers of history. The earliest references to Barrackpore are found in the writings of the Greek navigators and historians of the 1st century BC. The tS atistical Account of Bengal by W.W. Hunter talks of towns and villages on the banks of the as chief trading and marketing centres in which Barrackpore finds a mention. Siraj-ud-Daulah made his way to Kolkata from Murshidabad through Barasat. The British made Barasat a weekend retreat, constructing garden houses there. made his villa in the heart of Barasat. Barrackpore Railway Station

July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /35 Artist’s impression of Rameswara Riverview, Barrackpore

Northward shift Road and Road), Colony large number of residential buyers. The priority of the day is getting from More (intersection of Krishnanagar one place to another in the shortest time. Highway and Barrackpore Highway), Turning of the tide and Dakbungalow More (intersection There used to be a time when the Barrackpore is attractively placed in of and Krishnanagar mention of ‘Barasat’ would draw the this regard; it is connected to NH#34 Highway), among others. reaction, of ‘Isn’t that far?’ Interestingly, and NH#35, Barrackpore , there has been a 40% rise in real estate Ghoshpara Road and Barrackpore- The shift activity in just two years in Barasat. Dumdum Expressway (work underway). A number of decades ago, the Major builders like Godrej Properties, Several roads connect Barasat to commissioning of large factories and Salarpuria Group, Merlin Group and important points: NH#34, Jessore Road, industries drew a large number of Hiland Group are focusing on Kolkata’s Basirhat Road, Road, Barrackpore residents to Barrackpore and Barasat. outskirts – Joka, Barasat, Madhyamgram, Road, among others. Besides, important Now that a sizeable resident community Kona Expressway and Jessore Road. points of transit within Barasat comprise has been created and industries have left (Source: The Economic Times) Suddenly, Champadali More (major city centre (no pollution!), large land commercial the peripheral is becoming central to the where NH#35 is divided by Jessore parcels are being developed, attracting a business plans of prominent realtors.

A school finding a solution to the water crisis?! Shiuli Balika Vidyalaya, Barasat is doing just that. Backed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and a group of experts from Birbhum, this school has put in place a system to convert rainwater into potable water. Between September and November, the school processed 20,000 litres of rainwater. Collected in a reservoir, the rainwater is processed through a filter-bed of sand, charcoal and pebbles, purifying it following the addition of essential minerals. The water is then stored in four tanks and pumped into a terrace tank for distribution. Each floor has an ultra-violet ray-emanating unit to kill residual germs. (Source: The Times of India)

July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /36 So what’s in it for these large builders? offering is directed towards raising the “Despite a lower transaction ticket size,” lifestyle standard of this pocket,” explains Goal! says Subhasis Dutta, a resident of Barasat Mr. Pawan Agarwal, Director of NK An astro-turf quality comparable “these suburban Kolkata projects generate Realtors. “Which explains why this project with the best in the world and steady demand. Besides, the concept has been themed around Rabindranath residential football school. It’s all of city ‘limits’ is becoming irrelevant. Tagore – hence the name of this project happening in Barasat. The Barasat Conventionally, people never went is ‘Gitanjali’. The generic is history. The Stadium impressed Atletico Madrid officials so much that they said outwards from the city centre on account themed is in.” they preferred it to the Salt Lake of connectivity. With that problem largely Stadium. The astro-turf was entirely Fortune Heights (5.84 acres) in Barasat solved, these homes in peripheral Kolkata financed by FIFA’s Goal Project and is positioned as the first high-rise in have become compelling – inexpensive, prepared by a Dutch company. The Barasat. The 821-apartment facility offers Indian Football Academy will train well-connected and equipped with round-the-clock surveillance security, 40 boys at the facilities here. modern amenities!” clubhouse, rooftop swimming pool, kids’ Capitalising on the pool with jacuzzi, adda room, games Education hub transformation room, ‘garden of colours,’ reflexology park, clubhouse, power backup, guest Rameswara Riverview (5.61 acres) is • Auxilium Convent School, rooms and amphitheatre, among others. Barasat • Central Modern School, one such property capitalising on this “What we are offering are facilities that Barasat • , transformation. The Barrackpore property Barasat • Adamas Institute of were once only associated with modern- offers a Ganges view through three-side Technology, Barasat • West day properties in South Kolkata,” says open apartments. The property comprises Bengal State University, Barasat Mr. Agarwal. “Who could have thought • Kingston Polytechnic College, modern amenities (swimming pool, of a reflexology park in Barasat? Fortune Barasat • Kingston Educational power backup, elevators, jogging track, Institute, Barasat • St Mary’s Group has brought such a lifestyle children’s play area, games room and Technical Campus, Barasat • AMS because the Barasat gentry has changed gym, among others) for 360 apartment Education Trust, Barasat • Nilganj significantly over the last decade – and High School, Barasat • Jute owners. “The one big transformation is deserves a better lifestyle standard.” Agriculture Research Centre, the democratisation of lifestyle standards,” Barasat • Regent Education and says Subhasis. “What was once considered What sets these properties apart is not Research Foundation, Barasat • the privilege of the exclusive few is now just the quality of offerings; it is the value St. Claret School, Barasat • DAV Public School Barrackpore • available to a wider population sweep. It proposition. Rameswara Riverview is Barrackpore Wesley Hindustani is properties like Rameswara which are offering apartments starting Rs.23.35 High School, Barrackpore • accelerating this democratisation.” lac, Fortune Heights is being offered for Barrackpore Police Training Rs.21.67 lac and Riya Gitanjali for as School, Barrackpore • Army Riya Gitanjali (2.04 acres) on Public School, Barrackpore • AB attractive as Rs.14 lac. “What is remarkable Barrackpore-Barasat Road is another Model High School, Barrackpore is that one can buy into a superior lifestyle upcoming property built around this value proposition. The 221-apartment quality at a cost that is one of the lowest property offers a reading room, swimming of any metro city in India today,” says Illustrious pool, themed driveway, yoga deck, Chandrima Banerjee, staying in this area connections utility shop, children’s play area, among since the last 25 years. others. “The kind of features that we are • director, Shoojit Sircar, grew up in Barrackpore. • Surendra Nath Bandyopadhyay, father of Indian Nationalist Populations Movement, lived in Barrackpore. • Bengali author Bharat Chandra Ray Gunakar, known for writing Annadamangal, lived in Mulajore. • Ramprasad Sen, who authored Barrackpore Barasat Kolkata religious songs, was born in . 1,44,391 2,83,443 44,96,6944 • Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, who penned Vande Mataram, was born in .

July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /37 DO YOU KNOW THE REAL Dr. R.S. Bhartia? Meet the promoter behind Fortune City, Fortune Township and the newly launched Fortune Heights project.

favourite 2 Kolkata hangouts. Agri-Horticultural Society, Hub, Taj Hotel

Your favourite book. Creating Wealth by Robert Allen Your proudest moment. Completion of Fortune City properties in Kolkata 2 global structures you admire. 2you wish you owned. Petronas Tower, Kuala Lumpur Bel Air Alipore Taj Mahal, Agra Favourite holiday destination. Switzerland A project that made you proud. Fortune City

July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /38 Your role model. The Late JRD Tata

things you love about Kolkata. Friendliness of the people Short commutes Music festivals Stretch between Raj Bhavan 4and Victoria Memorial

2 films that inspire you. 3 Idiots The Sound of Music

July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /39 goSSipwallah ... BUS STAND MAKEOVER West Bengal’s Urban Development department started developing the Karunamoyee bus terminus, a hotspot after the introduction of the Kolk- ata-Agartala bus service. Passenger flow at the terminus is expected to shoot up once the East-West Metro, which has a station at Central Park, starts operating. A subway may be constructed to connect the terminus with the East-West Metro station as well as night-shelter arrangements for long-distance bus passengers bound for Dhaka, Durgapur and Asansol. (Source: The Times of India, 18.6.15)

CLEANING KOLKATA’S AIR The Global Burden of Disease Report, considered the gold standard in global epidemiology, assessed that ambient air pollution was responsible for 630,000 premature deaths a year, or more than one death per minute. The World Health Organization 2014 report on air pollution listed Kolkata among its most polluted cities. (Source: Times of India, 5.5.15)

INDIA FOURTH LARGEST INFRASTRUCTURE MARKET, 2030 India is likely to emerge as the fourth largest infrastructure projects market in the world by 2025, according to a RICS report. India is at the sixth position with 5.3 per cent share of the global infrastructure market. By 2025, its share could rise to 9.8 per cent, placing it at the fourth position. (Source: The Economic Times, 4.4.15)

CHANDIGARH KA DIL KHUSH HUA! Chandigarh, Lucknow, New Delhi, Chennai and Bengaluru are the five happiest cities in India, according to a study commissioned by LG and conducted by IMRB Internation- al, with a sample size of 2,424 respondents across 16 cities. Indians in the age group of 35-45 years are happier than their younger counterparts aged 18-24. While the latter rank The imposing Dubai skyline happiness as an important component (58% aged 18-24 ranking happiness as their most important core value) the study’s index scores showed the older people aged 35-45 are happier compared to them. (Source: The Hindustan Times, 12.6.15)

SOLAR SHIELD A government housing complex towering over Lakes has gone solar to counter electricity bills. Avijit Ghosh, an energy technologist with Central Glass and Ceramic Research Institute (CGCRI), installed a solar power plant on the roof of Sirsa, a residential building for CSIR scientists. For the city, the average was pegged at 15.74, while that of the Dhakuria plant was found to be 15.82. The CUF values for Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai are 18.4, 17.19 and 17.81, respectively. The performance rate usually varies between 75% and 85%, while the Dhakuria plant’s average PR was over 90%. (Source: Times of India, 18.5.15)

July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /40 STATE TO CONSTRUCT HOUSEHOLD LATRINES The West Bengal State Government, with assistance from UNICEF, is set to construct individual household latrines in 8.7 lac households by 2016. Within the overall framework of Mission Nirmal Bangla, Nadia district became the first Indian district to achieve open Defecation Free Status by constructing more than 3.47 lac toilets. In India 53.1% of the population do not have proper sanitation place. Proper sanitation will reduce prob- lems like infant mortality in India. (Source: Indiablooms.com, 28.4.15)

A KUNMING-KOLKATA RAIL LINK! China has proposed a high-speed railway line between Kunming and Kolkata. The link would be part of the Bangladesh-China-India-Myan- mar (BCIM) Economic Corridor aimed at boosting trade relations. The proposed 3,000 kilometre-long rail corridor could be funded through China’s Silk Road Development Fund or the Asian Infrastructure Fund. The rail corridor could pass through Mandalay, Chittagong and Dhaka before ending in Kolkata. (Source: The Economic Times, 18.6.15)

INDIANS INFLUENCE DUBAI REALTY Indian nationals emerged the largest non-Arab investors in Dubai’s real estate market, accounting for property transactions worth 3.040 billion dirhams ($820.8 million) in the first quarter of 2015. The Dubai Land Department’s annual report said a total of 11,603 real estate transactions in the first quarter of 2015 exceeded 64 billion dirhams ($17.28 billion). The total value of non-Arab investments in Dubai real estate market’s amounted to more than 12 billion dirhams. (Source: hindustantimes.com, 27.4.15)

ONLINE PLANS IN 9 WARDS Applications for the sanction of building plans in nine wards of central Calcutta can now be submitted online. The nine wards comprise wards 56 to 59 and 63 to 67, all in Borough VII. The wards cover areas such as Science City, places surrounding Trinamul Bhavan in , parts of Bosepukur, Palm Ave- nue, and . Officials said the applicants would have to upload their building plans on the KMC website, www.kmcgov.in. The traditional system of manual submission will also continue. (Source: The Telegraph, 20.5.15)

KOLKATA STATE BUSES WITH CCTVS! In a bid to make public transport safer, especially for women, the CSTC has installed CCTVs in 623 buses (introduced under the JNNURM scheme). The CCTVs have been installed inside and outside the bus: one in the front, another at the middle, the third one outside at the rear of the vehicle. The equipment, with a storage capacity of 100 gigabytes, will allow the footage to be stored for three days. (Source: NDTV.com, 15.4.15)

The World Health Organization 2014 report on air pollution listed Kolkata July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /41 among its most polluted cities. CLEANING UP KOLKATA KMC’s waste compactor machines... and how they are transforming Kolkata

he KMC garbage vat at the Municipal Corporation, the open garbage convergence of vats have gone. Yes, gone. “We invested Circular Road and Chakraberia in modern garbage compactor machines TRoad used to be an ironic and open garbage collection stations eyesore for years. Ironic because the road with technological assistance from the housed the rich and the famous including Netherlands,” explains a senior officer in a Cabinet Minister; the vat sent noxious the solid waste management department smells across the neighbourhood and also of Kolkata Municipal Corporation. “The a prominent message: Come, look at me! I result is that instead of depositing garbage have been here for years in your face and into open vats, our conservancy labourers there is nothing that anyone has been able are unloading the locality’s garbage into to do about it! modern compactors. Open vats are history. People coming to the city and complaining The amazing thing is that the vat is still about garbage strewn across roads or there but the garbage has gone. “There garbage flying out of KMC trucks has were a number of letters that one wrote to ended. In terms of garbage management, the mayor across the years,” relates a high Kolkata has entered the modern age. Most profile industrialist who stays a few hundred visitors returning to the city after a long gap metres down the Ballygunge Circular are pleasantly surprised. They have never Road stretch. “The letters were penned on seen the city looking this clean.” the grounds that this represented a health hazard for the residents but the reality This clean-up has led to enhanced is that every single time one would hear neighbourhood pride – and even higher excuses like ‘Ki kora jai, apni bolun? Vat-ta real estate valuations. “Even though we ke shift toh korte parbo na…’ ” lived on Southern Avenue, which is one of the best addresses in the city,” says Nikhil And this appeared to be the reality not Gupta, a businessman, “when it came to just on but also giving first-time visitors a landmark to get elsewhere across the city. The toniest city to our residence, it would be embarrassing address of Southern Avenue comprised to explain that our house would be easy two large open garbage vats; Russell Street’s to locate since it was diagonally across vat was adjacent to offices of one of the a garbage vat. Besides, the word that country’s largest FMCG companies ITC got around was that the resale value of Limited; there were other vats in the open properties in our building were slightly on across the city in , the lower side for this reason. I am happy , , and Tallah. to tell you that over the last couple of Open garbage vats? Gone! years – ever since the compactor replaced In what has possibly been the most the open garbage vat – the scenario has remarkable achievement of the Kolkata transformed. The eyesore has gone, the

July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /42 43 Number of compactor stations in Kolkata

90 Number of compactors in Kolkata smell has disappeared and I would like to think that our apartments valuations have increased. Good for the city, passers-by and residents!” 4,700 Extending to Rajarhat The quantum of Housing Infrastructure Development solid waste (tonnes) Corporation is planning to set up India’s generated per day first underground solid waste collection (average) network in New Town.

Once operational, this ‘smart’ waste management will put Rajarhat in the elite company of Wembley City (London) and the congested neighbourhoods of 150 Stockholm, Helsinki and Montreal. Number of vats in The Underground Vacuum Systems Kolkata for Sustainable Waste Handling has been recommended in the smart city report for New Town prepared by the National Institute of Smart Governance. The process begins with the deposit of trash into intake hatches (portholes) through which waste is pulled through an underground pipeline using the air pressure difference created by large industrial fans. The portholes comprise sensors that indicate when the trash needs to be emptied. This helps ensure that only one kind of waste travels through the pipe at a time. The pipelines converge into a central processing facility that uses automated software to direct the waste to a container, from where it is trucked to its final location (landfill or composting plant).

If only Kolkatans could litter less…

July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /43 SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

The origin hree individuals happened to be discussing ways of im- proving realities in Kolkata Twhen one of them piped in with a question: ‘How about launch- ing an event that would bring philan- thropists and NGOs together under one roof? That would make it easy for philanthropists to decide who to donate to; it would make things easy for NGOs to seek prospective donors.’ And out of this lateral idea was born Kolkata Gives. An organisation at one level, an event at the other. Created with the principal objective to network, mobilise resourc- es, ensure that these funds are spent for the purposes for which they were raised and ensure that the deployment details are communicated to the donors. The maiden event The trustees at Kolkata Gives – Pawan Agarwal, Jyoti Sonthalia, Mukti Gupta, Anant Nevatia, Saurav Dugar and Mu- dar Patherya – launched their maiden event on 11 November 2013 at Hotel Park Plaza in uptown Ballygunge, Kolkata Kolkata. Some 800 successful achiev- ers turned up at the venue to hear the stories of 22 NGOs (selected with care) engaged in philanthropic activity. Not just hear, applaud, whisper ‘shabash’ and leave, but to reach into their pock- ets and make a grassroots difference. Kolkata Gives is a unique movement focused on Some 800 visitors made aggregate Gives funding commitments of more than bringing donors and NGOs under one roof. Rs.10 million.

July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /44 the dangers of conducting an annual CSR spender in the country with an annu- event and doing nothing in the interim. al disbursement outlay of around Rs.600 The result was that Kolkata Gives charted crore, spent an hour at the Kolkata Gives out a number of year-through activities. event engaging individually and incog- Conducting a philanthro-tourism ‘picnic’ nito with a number of NGOs. His one where it took 45 visitors to an NGO (OF- statement could perhaps hold out an even FER at being the first in March bigger hope than all the cash mobilised 2015). Conducting a workshop on how during this nine hour event: “The time NGOs could brand themselves better. Col- has perhaps come for an institution like laborating with SREI as the philanthropic Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) to partner, helping enlist 1200 participants be engaged to strengthen the governance from NGOs for the marathon in Febru- delivery of these NGOs, so that it be- ary 2015. Launching India’s first philan- comes easier for process-driven organisa- thropic tabloid in January 2014. Starting a tions like to support them and Trustees of Kolkata Gives, 2015 back-office to research NGO activities and strengthen the virtuous cycle.” highlight them to interested donors. The difference The vision So what made a daringly different exper- The second event “Kolkata Gives is positioned as a facili- iment like this work in a city conscious Kolkata Gives 2015 at Hotel Park Plaza tator for all those people who desire to of counting its pennies? One, the evident Ballygunge on 11 January 2015 was a fes- donate and make a difference and a guide reality that the event promoters had no tival of a different kind of philanthropy. for all those desiring to mobilise funds,” money to make from the event (cheques The second edition of this unique phil- explains Pawan Agarwal, trustee. “A num- will go direct from donors to NGOs). Two, anthropic event drew twice the footfalls ber of people who wish to donate seek to an exhaustive brochure listing out the sto- of its predecessor and considerably larger provide funds to NGOs who possess the ries of NGOs so that prospective donors donation commitments for the benefit of highest standards of governance and cred- went to the event informed. Three, aggres- the 30 selected NGOs on show. The best ibility. Besides, NGOs need a real-time sive networking with peers, friends and commentary about Kolkata Gives 2015 understanding of what donors need and relatives to attend and ‘listen to the stories came from a visitor. “For 364 days,” she also of which donor would like to fund and if you are impressed, then contribute’. said, “Kolkata’s rich and famous compete what kind of projects. This two-way en- Four, the handing of ‘play money’ to each to make more money than each other and gagement makes the philanthropic wheel visitor, inviting the person to contribute to then there comes this one day when they turn and this is the kind of service that whichever NGO he or she wished with a compete again – to give a part of their net Kolkata Gives would like to provide in a provision that this would be matched ru- worth away.” bigger way. In short, we would like to play pee-to-rupee by the organisers. Lastly, no The climax of the day was something that the role of a trusted intermediary.” NGO canvassed for a donation; it merely most NGOs and visitors missed because explained its story and hoped for the best. it happened with minimal fuss. Sutirtha Miscellaneous activities Bhattacharya, newly-appointed chairman realreal-- The trustees at Kolkata Gives recognised of Coal India Limited, the largest single ties

SOME NGOS SHOWCASED AT KOLKATA GIVES EVENTS • Calcutta Rescue • Jyoti Development Trust - Disha • Sir Syed Group of Schools • Hamari Muskan • Kolkata Swasthya Sankalp • Mentaid • The Unmesh Society • Amitie Trust • Ashabari (Calcutta Home of Hope) • Association for Social and Environmental Development • Calcutta Social Project • Centre for Contemporary Communication • Chhaya • Civilian Welfare Foundation • Ektara • Friends of Tribal Society • Help Us Help Them • Indian Society for Rehabilitation of Children • ISKCON Food Relief Foundation • Jungle Crows Foundation • Kadam • Kamdebpurrural Development Society • OFFER • Parivaar • Sahay • Rise • Rural Healthcare Foundation • Samaritan Help Mission • Samarpan Foundation • Soroptimist International of Calcutta • Suprava • The Leprosy Mission Purulia Leprosy Home & Hospital • Society For Human and Educational Developement

July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /45 35 kilometres from Kolkata. The nearest that France came to Calcutta. A French colony since 1673 that became a part of India only in 1950. A photographic essay by Suvomoy Mitra about what still remains quintessentially French in Chandannagar.

Chandann nnagar! 1

3 2 4 was IT while 4 5 6 5 working on a project on ‘Europe and Ganga’ that I had my first encounter with Chandannagar. It is a planned city with European- style squares. Everyone knows of the ‘French’ connection of the city. Yet, it is not the first thing that strikes you when you walk into the city. The French connection is that of lifestyle instead. Much like the bonedi baris of Kolkata, it is hidden inside the age-old bungalows and along the timeless streets. For me, the French connection is more of a romance with the city. When I walked into the French cemetery, for instance. I was 6 transported. Surrounded by French names, in the company of not one living being, the soul of the French seemed to come alive. 7 - Suvomoy Mitra, Photographer

1 The Institute of Chandannagar: One of the French, Renamed Kanailal Vidya Mandir after 5 Clock Tower: The Jail was established in oldest museums of the region. A collection of the revolutionary Kanailal Dutta, a student of 1850. this school. French antiques (cannons used in Anglo-French 6 Chandannagar City Gate: Entry point of the th War, 18 century wooden furniture, among 4 Chandannagar Strand: Built in 1920s in French territory on G T Road, it reflects the lost others). The Institute still teaches French. honour of Durgacharan Rakshit, recipient of glory of a French era. Legion d’Honneur award. An elegant pavilion 2 St Joseph’s Convent: Grown into multiple 7 Chandannagar Court: Short distance from comprises slender columns with decorative education institutions and dispensary. the Chandannagar Strand, comprising rare stucco works consisting of an elephant’s head 3 Kanailal Vidya Mandir: Established as French artifacts. and floral design. Saint Mary’s Institution in 1862, teaching July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /49 IN THE MEDIA Women must be co-owners in govt’s affordable houses

he government has made a mandatory provision of making the mother Tor wife either sole or co-owner of flats along with the beneficiary under the affordable housing scheme. This provision will be introduced in the government’s flagship Housing for All scheme.“The provision of ownership of a flat to women has been included so that they have a greater say in the domestic affairs. Several states have taken initiatives such as reduction in stamp duty and electricity bills if the house is registered in the name of a woman,” said an official. (Source: The Times of India)

Housing for All

he Cabinet gave its approval enhancement. A central grant of Tto launch Prime Minister Rs.1 lac per house, on an average, Narendra Modi’s ‘Housing for All will be available under the slum by 2022’ scheme that includes rehabilitation programme. Under rehabilitation of slum dwellers, the credit-linked interest subsidy promotion of affordable housing component, a subvention of 6.5% on Asia’s most for economically weaker sections housing loans availed up to a tenure expensive apartment through credit-linked subsidies, of 15 years will be provided to affordable housing in partnership individuals hailing from low income enderson Land Development with public and private sectors groups, giving them with a benefit Hsold a unit at 39 Conduit Road and subsidy for beneficiary-led of around Rs.2.3 lac each. (Source: (Hong Kong) for HK$93,000 per individual house construction or The Economic Times] square foot, a record for Asia. An unidentified buyer paid HK$433.8 Parkomat back under KMC wings million for a 4,664 square feet unit th on the 45 floor of the building, en years after they were built on a PPP model, the Kolkata Municipal according to the sales posted in the TCorporation is set to reclaim Parkomat, an automated parking plaza on first-hand residential properties Rawdon Street, and the parking facility on Lindsay Street. The mayor Sovan electronic platform. (Source: SCMP) Chatterjee conceded that there was a difficulty in utilising the parking plazas, especially the one at Rawdon Street, since the civic body had failed to enforce no parking in the 500m area. (Source: The Times of India) Mumbai green buildings to get 20% tax sop

ertified green buildings in CMumbai could soon get up to 20% discount on property tax as per a proposal being considered by the municipal corporation in discussion with Indian Green Building Council. There are examples of civic and state bodies like those in Noida, Chandigarh and West Bengal, where construction of green buildings is encouraged through additional floor space index of 5-10%. The measure has worked well in these regions. (Source: The Economic Times)

July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /50 NUMBERS Thoughts to blow your mind by

Percentage jump in Juhani Pallasmaa Kolkata’s millionaire club Juhani Pallasma is a Finnish 174 between 2004 and 2014 architect par excellence, former Professor of Architecture and Dean, Helsinki University of Technology. The Eyes of the Skin: Architecture and the Senses, his 1996 book 11 81 of reflections on architecture, perception and the self, has become Indian houses India’s urban a part of the canon of architectural (in crore) that population (in education across the world. will be required crore) expected by 2022 to reach by 2050

The projected Indian real estate market (US$, 180 billion) by 2020

“Our skin is capable of “The dominance of the eye distinguishing a number of and the suppression of the colours; we actually do see by other senses tend to push us our skin.” into detachment, isolation and 30-40 exteriority.” “The ultimate meaning Percentage rise in real of any building is beyond “Modernist design at large has estate activity in Kolkata architecture; it directs our housed the intellect and the outskirts in two years consciousness back to the eye, but it has left the body and world and towards our own the other senses, as well as our sense of self and being.” memories, imagination and dreams, homeless.” Percentage of urban “An architectural work is not housing need in the experienced as a series of “The current industrial mass isolated retinal pictures, but in production of visual imagery affordable segment 70 its full and integrated material, tends to alienate vision from embodied and spiritual emotional involvement and essence.” identification and to turn imagery into mesmerising flow “A wise architect works with without focus or participation.” his/her entire body and sense 1.7-2.0 of self.” Area (in lac hectares) “There is medical evidence required to meet Indian that peripheral vision has urban housing needs a higher priority in our perceptual and mental system.”

July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /51 What makes Lake District one of Kolkata’s best maintained properties?

Lake District in was developed by the Prasad Group. The property is respected not only for the view that it provides of the 97.9-acre Subhas Sarobar water body but also its impeccable maintenance standards. Mr. Sanjay Agarwal, member of the Lake District Residents’ Association, and Mr. Q. What makes Lake District of Phoolbagan one of the best maintained resi- Surendra Bhuwania, dential properties in Kolkata? Treasurer, explain Sanjay Agarwal: The success of any residential society lies in its community culture. how they have helped At Lake District, we live like a family. Now you might ask what this has got to do with protect the property’s maintenance. The reality is that only when each resident feels a sense of ownership maintenance standards. and inter-personal accountability can a property be maintained most effectively. By

July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /52 also to be taken care of. Apart from a Q. You mentioned a 10,000 square swimming pool, we have a gymnasium, feet garden. How do you maintain club, auditorium, community hall and a such a large facility? 10,000 square feet lawn. Besides, a chil- SB: We spend around Rs.25,000 month- dren’s play area, temple and tennis court ly in gardening, employing five garden- are across the lawn. We also provide fa- ers. Besides, we have invested in water cilities for indoor games (billiards, cards, pipes, mowers and modern equipment carrom and table tennis). For committee for world-class maintenance. But the members, the challenge is to maintain effort and cost have been worth it; our the entire property in top-class condi- garden provides a countryside feel right tion, or else we will be deluged by com- in the heart of Kolkata. plaint calls on the intercom that ‘Bhayy- aji, we are very disappointed with the Q. How is Lake District special? maintenance standard’! SA: It would appear from this conversa- tion that Lake District is special because Q. What then is the key to a high of the kind of physical amenities and maintenance standard? facilities that we provide. It goes beyond SA: Whatever required specialised that however. The residents have a strong maintenance, was outsourced. For in- sense of community. For instance, the stance, a specialised agency manages senior citizens within Lake District get the swimming pool, resulting in daily together virtually each evening on the that yardstick, let me ask a counter-ques- cleaning. The lawn, temple, club and lawn. In most properties, the elderly tion: when is the last time you saw a gymnasium are cleaned almost every could well be marginalised; at Lake Dis- well-bonded residential community but day by our captive housekeeping team. trict, they are involved stakeholders. poor property maintenance – or vice The auditorium and community hall are versa? There is a connection between periodically maintained (especially after Q. That brings me to a relevant point the two beyond what most people might events). The point is that we are able to – security. achieve all this for a maintenance charge think. SA: We have three gates at Lake District of just Rs.2.25 per square feet, a portion Surendra Bhuwania: At Lake District, (one accessible all day, another opened of which is directed to a sinking fund to our responsibilities have been compe- twice a week and the third used in case finance larger foreseen and unforeseen tently allocated by our management of emergencies). We delegated the se- maintenance expenses. committee across committee post-hold- curity function to a professional agency comprising the deployment of 35 offi- ers covering security, maintenance, Q. Can you shed some light on the cers (including 12 supervisors). There sports, festivals and gardening. In our sanitation and cleanliness system? experience, the more an association mo- are two security members at each gate. SB: Lake District employs its own house- nopolises portfolios across fewer people, The property comprises of intercom and keeping staff of about 30 people. When I the bigger the potential problem be- CCTV facilities at the main gate and say ‘own’, I mean we recruit through our comes in the long run. The trick lies in one camera in each block, as a result of contacts – four plumbers, four electri- engaging a larger number of individuals which live monitoring is a continuous cians, one accountant, one help-desk to drive their specific portfolios ahead. reality. assistant, one supervisor (to monitor But at Lake District, we realise that there electro-mechanical equipment), one Q. Lake District comprises 380 apart- is just so much that we can do with tech- senior person for overall complex man- ments. Is the scale challenging? nology. The other part of the security agement, and a number of sweepers. Be- SA: The scale is indeed challenging be- comprises an extensive documentation sides, there are attending staff members cause we have 13 towers (Phase I and of domestic helps by virtue of their ID in the swimming pool and gym as well II) and, of these, two towers are 11-sto- cards (voter IDs, PAN cards, Aadhar as housekeeping staff for elevators, stair- reyed, another is four-storeyed and the cards, ration cards, among others). Can cases who also collect waste. rest are seven-storeyed. The total area this make a difference? I think it can. Be- we have within Lake District is 5.5 lac SA: The housekeeping staff for cleaning fore any domestic help thinks of doing square feet! The result is that we have a the staircases usually collects garbage anything that is not in line with accept- fair spatial spread to manage in terms of from each apartment and transfers it to able behaviour or conduct, he or she will safety and house-keeping to start with. the centralised garbage bin, subsequent- think twice. When you have a large com- ly evacuated by the municipal van. SB: There are a number of amenities plex comprising a number of individuals

July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /53 View from the top at Lake District

who come in every day – I would put commitment to safety is that we spend Safety provisions this estimate in excess of 500 including Rs.2.50 to 3 lac each month on security. Two power back-up generators drivers – there is a strong need for insti- available (equipment brand provides tutionalised deterrence. Q. What emergency provisions are in maintenance). place at Lake District? Besides, we have the usual safeguards Fire control system provided with fire- like the intercom, six security guards SA: We have protocols for most emer- proof light fittings and fire alarms; built on round-the-clock duty, two supervi- gencies. Besides, even as we do not have in a manner to facilitate emergency sors and a lady security guard (day duty any medical facilities within our complex, evacuation. only). Besides, we have three security the fact that there are around 70 doctors Deep tube-well pump available, along guards at each tower providing round- among the residents, serves as a captive with two water filter plants to purify the-clock security. The one index of our resource, should any emergency occur. contaminated water.

Corrigendum In the real-ties issue October - December 2014, the article What makes the Keventer Westwind one of the best maintained residential project in Kolkata? mentioned ‘Our rainwater harvesting system recharges water bodies and the ground water table.’ In reality, the water body within the complex captures rainwater and acts as a natural recharger of the ground water table. The error is regretted.

July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /54 Land area: 22 acres Number of blocks: 38 EDEN CITY Number of floors: G+15 and G+7 Number of apartments: 2,336 THE DEVELOPER SPEAKS: With sprawling greens on three sides, Eden City Completion time: June 2016 – December Maheshtala is spread across 22 acres. Located in South-Western Kolkata, it is just 45 2018 (in phases) minutes from the central business district – Park Street and Esplanade. The promoters Location: BBT Road, Maheshtala have gone a step ahead and planned an AC bus service that transports you from your doorstep to the nearest metro station. Unit sizes: 2-BHK (771 square feet to 973 square feet) and 3-BHK (1,236 square feet Offering amenities like jogging tracks, clubhouse, swimming pool, multi-purpose to 1,524 square feet) court, library, home theatre, restaurants and convenience store, Eden City also takes care of the elderly – doctor’s chamber, medicine shops and a pathology centre are Open space: 78% located within the premises. Developer: Eden Real Estates Pvt. Ltd. Eden City also offers facilities like 24x7 filtered drinking water, power backup, elevators and best-in-class security. You can unwind and stroll along the landscaped gardens, sit by one of the natural water bodies or indulge in sports, science or culture. Everything you need. Within reach.

Contact: 033 4040 1010/6620 1010 Email: [email protected] freewheeling MUDAR PATHERYA EXPLAINS HOW THE MANNER IN WHICH WE USE A SHARED RESOURCE IN OUR RESIDENTIAL BUILDING TELLS US ACTUALLY WHO WE ARE.

HE BIGGEST building we use only one lift. panel while standing on the So we are deep in a dilem- insight into The problems emerge when second floor) is in too much ma. Should we ask domestic who we are as we use the manual; when the of a hurry to even let the assistants to use the stairs? an individual liftman is off for his lunch or passenger exit. Should we ask domestic is derived from has been asked to run some Take the third instance: the assistants to use the lift on Thow we use the residential errand – suddenly pandemo- the way up but walk down? gentleman on the fourth is so elevator. nium prevails. notorious that even when the Should we ask all domestic I live in a standalone ten-sto- This is what a typical hour lift has gone on a simple drop assistants from fifth floor reyed building serviced by entails: a fellow resident and journey (no waiting), he will downwards to walk their two small (box-like) eleva- you take the lift upwards; she ring for the lift so aggressively way down? Should we levy tors. One is a conventional is to get off on the sixth floor (non-stop 20 second ring) a lift tax that covers the cost manual lift and other an and you on the ninth. You from the ground floor, that an- of electricity of concurrently automatic (porous collapsible stop the lift on the sixth floor yone hearing it would assume running the second lift? gates, both). The automatic so that she can exit. In walks that the neighbouring country Should we wind down the lift is an obedient servant; someone into the building’s had declared war on India and ghanti attached the lift so press the button and it takes foyer on the ground floor and this was a call to blackout and that it creates less of a racket? you to the desired floor. Since starts demanding for the lift head for the bunker. Should we replace the man- ual lift with the electronic so it is electronic in nature, (ghanti maar-maar ke) and Take the fourth instance: that manual interventions are neither can it be stopped you feel terribly guilty that you see the lift rising up eliminated? midway nor its direction you are actually infringing from the ground floor alterable at one’s whim. The on someone else’s use of the towards your floor (it is easy This morning I pasted a conventional lift is less of an lift when it turns out that the to see through the shafts of note on the building’s notice obstinate beast; the person, ‘someone’ is a domestic assis- conventional lifts) and you board seeking a discussion. going from the eighth floor tant working on the second feel good that you would be A meeting will be held to to the ground floor, can stop floor who could have taken able to get in. The lift stops ‘decide’. to pick someone on the third the stairs anyway. at the eighth floor; you ring I only hope that after much floor and change her mind Take the next instance: you the lift bell hoping to draw tea, samosas and bonhomie and manoeuvre the lift back take the lift to the ninth floor attention that you are on a at the meeting, another to the eighth floor, collect and before you can even higher storey and need to be meeting is not convened to her forgotten car keys and open the collapsible door, collected for the downward ‘decide’. proceed to the ground floor. someone has pressed the but- journey, but hell, the lift turns You might ask: if you have ton on the second floor and direction and goes down – Mudar Patherya two elevators, where is the off the lift goes to the second only because the eight floor problem? Residents can floor without your being resident would rather have always choose to embark on able to get off. Obviously, the the lift entirely to herself and a different lift in case of a person on the second floor couldn’t care to go in the If you have interesting feedback, delay, right? The problem is (who is monitoring the up reverse direction to collect a send them to mudar@trisyscom. that being a cost-conscious and down arrow on the lift passenger. com

July-September 2015 /real-ties Kolkata /56 Kolkata’s only dedicated real estate magazine

As You Like It! Ping. Tweet. Snap. Vine. OR Just post it on Real-ties.

For over 2,00,000 views. From the ones that matter the most.

Ad sales agency enquiries solicited | To advertise : C 033 4040 1010 E [email protected]