Mumbai's gateway to connectivity: Exploring the largest highways

<ul><li><keyword id="6354936" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="yamuna" source="Orion">Yamuna</keyword> water level in the national capital has once again crossed the danger mark.</li><li>The financial capital of the country, <keyword id="6358070" type="General" weightage="40" keywordseo="mumbai" source="Orion">Mumbai</keyword>, has received heavy downpours since morning.</li><li>Kinnaur and Spiti Valley in Himachal have been cut off from Shimla</li></ul> Weather continues to play havoc in many parts of the country. The national capital, Delhi has again seen more than expected rain on Thursday. Meanwhile, the Himalayan states of Uttarakhand and <keyword id="6358126" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="himachal-pradesh" source="Orion">Himachal Pradesh</keyword> continue their tryst with the bad weather which has left many homeless. The financial capital of the country, Mumbai, has also received heavy downpour since morning and this is expected to continue till late evening. Here is a quick update of what’s happening in these areas across the country. Uttarakhand: Yamunotri National Highway blocked The traffic on the Yamunotri National Highway has been suspended due to the continuous debris falling at five places of Uttarkashi including Dabarkot and Jhar Jhar Gad. "Efforts are on to open the highway by the National Highway Authority Barkot. Passengers are stranded at various places on the highway due to the closure of the highway," according to District Disaster ManagementoOfficer, Uttarkashi. Apart from this, the Chamiala-Budhakedar Motor road has been also closed due to excessive water and debris in Chail Gadere in Lata village in Himachal Pradesh. The District Disaster Management Officer of Tehri District, Brijesh Bhatt informed that due to the surge in the water level of Gadere, water and debris have entered 5-6 houses. Delhi: Yamuna's water level breaches danger mark again The water level of River Yamuna surges again, as it was recorded at 205.83 at 10:00 am on Thursday. Notably, the danger mark of the Yamuna is 205.33 meters. After days of receding, the Yamuna water level in the national capital once again crossed the danger mark amid incessant rains in Delhi and adjoining areas. In the NCR, the Hindon River also witnessed a rise in the water level. Visuals showed that the area near Ecotech 3 got submerged following the surged water level due to which many vehicles got stuck in the water. Himachal Pradesh: Kinnaur, Spiti valley cut off from Shimla The Kinnaur and Spiti Valley, both tribal districts, have been cut off from Shimla, the national capital, following the blockade of National Highway 5 (Hindustan-Tibet Road) due to rock falling, landslides, and sinking of road. The National Highway has been blocked at Baroni, Manglad, and Pashada near Jhakri in the Rampur Subdivision of Shimla. Alternate routes are also closed due to heavy rains and landslides. The Luhri-Aut National Highway (305) is also blocked at three places and gushing waters have entered many houses. Stranded, drivers of public transport vehicles are running out of food and trying to cross the blocked stretches on foot. Videos of people crossing the landslides on foot amid risk of stone falling and landslides have been widely circulated on the internet. Incessant rains in Mumbai; IMD forecasts heavy to very heavy showers Heavy rains lashed Mumbai and suburbs in the last 24 hours with some areas receiving extremely heavy showers, officials said on Thursday. The city witnessed incessant rainfall since Thursday morning, but there was no report of any major waterlogging in low-lying areas, they said. The India Meteorological Department's (IMD) Mumbai centre has predicted "heavy to very heavy rain" in the city on Thursday. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) declared a holiday for all government and private schools and colleges here on Thursday after the IMD issued a 'red' alert for the metropolis. Maharashtra: Traffic blocked on one arm of Mumbai-Pune Expressway The highway police on Thursday blocked the movement of vehicles on the Mumbai-bound arm of the Pune-Mumbai Expressway for two hours to remove boulders and mud on the carriageway, officials said. Due to incessant rains in the region, a landslide occurred on July 23 near the Adoshi tunnel on the busy road, said an official. The special two-hour traffic block was taken from 12 noon and 2 pm, he said. So far, the highway police have taken three such blocks to remove the debris and mud on the Mumbai-bound lane of the Expressway, he said. Telangana administration on high alert The Telangana government has put the entire state administration on high alert in view of the incessant rains that have been lashing the state during the last couple of days. Chief Secretary Santhi Kumari said that as per the directions of Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao, the flood situation in the state is being constantly monitored with the senior officials along with district collectors and superintendents of the police. (With input from wires)

When it rains, it pours – Mumbai drenched, Yamuna above danger mark, Himalayan highways blocked and more

With 2020 altering life as we know it, wanderlust and a desire to escape the mundane has risen in our collective minds. With the world now being less of an oyster and travel far from what we have known it to be, a second home is increasingly fulfilling the need to augment our lives. Lodha Group’s marquee property on the banks of Pavana River on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, <keyword id="10908635" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="lodha-belmondo">Lodha Belmondo</keyword> is redeﬁning the holiday home experience. Lodha Belmondo is set amidst nature with an idyllic seclusion and yet delivers the comforts symbolic of a global lifestyle. Lodha Belmondo fulfils the promise of the perfect weekend getaway for Mumbai and Pune residents. This luxury residential estate is a mere two-hour drive from Mumbai and only about 20 minutes from Lonavla. Sprawled across 100 acres of lush greenery, and kissing the cool waters of the Pavana River, Lodha Belmondo offers the perfect weekend lifestyle, complete with ﬁve star privileges and homely comforts. <div type="Youtube" id="lprNFmW4q4c" title="Azaad Apne Ghar Mein - Roshan Abbas | Independence Day 2020" thumbUrl="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/lprNFmW4q4c/mqdefault.jpg"></div> Connoisseurs seeking a more exclusive experience can check into The Reserve—a private gated enclave of elegantly designed villas, and country houses that ﬂaunt private lawns and spacious terraces. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="An abundance of amenities" comment="subhead" text="An abundance of amenities">An abundance of amenities</cmsannotation> Nature’s bounty aside, Lodha Belmondo ﬂaunts an array of world-class amenities that offer a luxury living experience par excellence. The highlight of Lodha Belmondo is its 45-acre, nine-hole golf course designed by former world champion Greg Norman that boasts both putting and clipping greens and as well as a well-stocked store with golﬁng essentials. The 50,000 sq. ft. clubhouse is just the perfect way to end a day out on the greens. Residents can also workout at the state-of-the-art gymnasium, take a few laps in the outdoor pool, master Asanas at the Yoga and aerobics studio and for some rejuvenation, there is the Serena Spa by ‘Heaven on Earth’. With detoxiﬁcation programmes, hammam baths, reﬂexology, shiatsu therapies and guided meditation sessions there is something to help everyone revitalize their mind and body. Kids, too, can get in on the action at the 5 Senses activity room, where a host of fun games promise to keep them entertained. For culture vultures, the arts and culture zone—complete with an open-air amphitheater, a mini theatre, a library, and a hobby room—is just the place to be. And if that wasn’t enough, Lodha Belmondo even makes provisions for boating excursions, horse riding, and cycling. And topping it all off is an organic farm from where Lodha Belmondo sources all its produce to guarantee residents' complete wellbeing So, gather your loved ones and drive down to Lodha Belmondo to see what the ideal luxury weekend life can look like for you and your family. Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post in partnership with Lodha Group.

Lodha Belmondo - a perfect weekend home nestled in nature

Mumbai, Feb 25 () Toll road firm IRB Infrastructure Developers on Tuesday said it has bagged a contract for operating and collecting toll on Mumbai-Pune Expressway project under the toll-operate-toll model. The company has received a letter of acceptance (LoA) from Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) for a period of 10 years and two months. The concession includes collection of toll and operation and maintenance activities on the expressway and old Mumbai-Pune highway NH-48 for the period up to April 30, 2030, the company said in a statement. As per the contract, IRB will have to pay Rs 8,262 crore to MSRDC for the rights for collecting toll, which would include an upfront payment of Rs 6,500 crore and a further staggered payment of Rs 850 crore each in second year and third year, and Rs 62 crore in fourth year. "The company will take possession of the project from March 1, 2020 and commence tolling and O&amp;M activities," IRB said. Commenting on the development, company's chairman and managing director Virendra Mhaiskar said, "We had managed this project for 15 years from 2004 to 2019 and hence we feel that it will help us in managing the project well and meet the expectations of all stakeholders." During the earlier concession period, IRB had paid Rs 918 crore to MSRDC for bagging the project. After the concession agreement lapsed in August last year, MSRDC had handed over toll collection on the stretch on temporary basis to Sahkar Global. Meanwhile, toll rates on the expressway are expected to increase from April 1 for three years after the appointment of new concessionaire. As per a government notification, the new toll rates for cars will increase from Rs 230 to Rs 270, while for mini buses it will go up from Rs 355 to Rs 420 for trucks, and it will rise from Rs 493 to Rs 580 for heavy axle vehicles. For buses, it will increase from Rs 675 to Rs 797, and for large trucks it will rise from Rs 1,165-1,555 to Rs 1,380-1,835. PSK RVK

IRB Infrastructure bags contract for operating, collecting toll on Mumbai-Pune Expressway

<img class="gwt-Image" src="/photo/30157139.cms" /> Travelling around the wonderland that is India is a thrilling experience, especially when fast-moving super <keyword id="168020" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="expressways">expressways</keyword> are right here to ensure some wonderful on-the-road vacations. Of course there are business travellers who are in a hurry to reach their destinations and <keyword id="2053038" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Super-fast-expressways">super fast expressways</keyword> minus traffic snarls suit them down to the ground. But then, you can be one of those away on a leisure trip and looking forward to a fast and panoramic drive on your way to a new city. Either way, the expressways of India won’t disappoint you. As we mentioned before, expressways are controlled-access highways like the freeways or motorways or autobahnen in the US and Europe, essentially designed for high-speed traffic. As of now, most of the expressways in India are 6-8 lane toll <keyword id="6358996" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="roads">roads</keyword> and cover a total distance of nearly 1,208.19 km. 
 
Last month, we brought you <a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/8-Super-ExpresswaysIn-North-India-That-Fulfil-Your-Need-For-Speed/articleshow/29486214.cms">8 super expressways</a> in North India that fulfil your need for speed. And this time, we move to the West and the North-west of the country where some more picturesque drives await us. However, the <keyword id="52840" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="sea-links">sea links</keyword> and the <keyword id="2053055" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Coastal-expressways">coastal expressways</keyword> will come up in our next article. So grab a coffee, get a map and read on. By the time you are through, you could be checking the map and picking out the spots where you want to go first. As the Turkish playwright <keyword id="1981629" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="Mehmet-Murat">Mehmet Murat</keyword> ildan has said: Some roads are so beautiful that you know not whether you travel on the road or the road travels in you! 
 
Image: Thinkstock Photos/Getty Images

Open Roads Return: 6 Super
Expressways In West & North-west India

Situated in the lush greenery of the Sahyadri Range, <keyword id="19908016" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Lonavala" source="keywords">Lonavala</keyword> welcomes you with its scenic beauty, historical charm, and tranquil ambience. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, history buff, or adventure seeker, Lonavala offers a plethora of experiences to delight every traveller. Here's your comprehensive guide to the top 10 places to explore in <keyword id="21683834" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Lonavala-in-2024" source="Orion">Lonavala in 2024</keyword>. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="How to Reach Lonavala?" comment="subhead" text="How to Reach Lonavala?">How to Reach Lonavala?</cmsannotation> By Air: The nearest airport to Lonavala is Pune Airport, located approximately 70 kilometres away. From Pune Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Lonavala, which takes around 2 to 3 hours depending on traffic conditions. By Road: Lonavala is well-connected to major cities like Mumbai and Pune by road. You can drive to Lonavala via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway or take a bus from Mumbai or Pune, which takes around 2 to 3 hours. By Rail: Lonavala has its own railway station, which is well-connected to major cities like Mumbai and Pune. You can take a train to Lonavala from Mumbai or Pune, which takes around 2 to 3 hours. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Weather Around the Year in Lonavala" comment="subhead" text="Weather Around the Year in Lonavala">Weather Around the Year in Lonavala</cmsannotation> Lonavala experiences a pleasant climate throughout the year, making it a popular destination for travellers. Summers, from March to June, are mild with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C, ideal for outdoor activities. Monsoon, from July to September, brings heavy rainfall, transforming Lonavala into a lush green paradise. Autumn, from October to November, offers clear skies and comfortable temperatures, perfect for sightseeing. Winter, from December to February, brings cool temperatures ranging from 12°C to 25°C, making it an ideal time for trekking and enjoying bonfires. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Top 10 Places to Visit in Lonavala" comment="subhead" text="Top 10 Places to Visit in Lonavala">Top 10 Places to Visit in Lonavala</cmsannotation> <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Bhaja Caves - Ancient Buddhist Caves" comment="subhead" text="Bhaja Caves - Ancient Buddhist Caves"><keyword id="1913801" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Bhaja-Caves" source="Orion">Bhaja Caves</keyword> - Ancient Buddhist Caves</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="1" msid="110175193" hostid="261" sizebytes="2404251" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Step into history at Karla and Bhaja Caves, ancient marvels of Lonavala.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Discover the Bhaja Caves, ancient caves carved out of rock around 2,000 years ago! These caves are filled with beautiful carvings and statues telling stories from Buddhism. Visiting these caves is like stepping back in time and experiencing history firsthand. The peaceful atmosphere and the stories etched into the walls make Bhaja Caves a special place to visit in Lonavala. How to Reach: Located approximately 15 kilometres from Lonavala, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Bhaja Caves. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Rajmachi Fort - Historical Marvel" comment="subhead" text="Rajmachi Fort - Historical Marvel">Rajmachi Fort - Historical Marvel</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="2" msid="110175232" hostid="261" sizebytes="1826096" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Rajmachi Fort: Where adventure meets breathtaking vistas.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Trek to Rajmachi Fort, situated high up in the Sahyadri Mountains! Once you reach the top, you'll be treated to stunning views of valleys and waterfalls all around. This fort has a fascinating history, making it a hit among adventure lovers and history fans. Don't miss the chance to explore this ancient stronghold and soak in the beauty of nature from its lofty perch. How to Reach: Rajmachi Fort is located around 15 kilometres from Lonavala. You can reach the base village by car or bus and then trek to the fort. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Tiger's Leap - Scenic Vista Point" comment="subhead" text="Tiger's Leap - Scenic Vista Point">Tiger's Leap - Scenic Vista Point</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="3" msid="110175250" hostid="261" sizebytes="1416228" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Tiger&amp;#39;s Leap: Nature&amp;#39;s masterpiece overlooking the Western Ghats&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>This special spot offers jaw-dropping views of the Western Ghats, and if you look closely, you'll see why it's called Tiger's Leap—it looks like a tiger jumping into the valley below! Feel the refreshing breeze as you stand on the cliff edge, surrounded by lush green trees and waterfalls. It's the perfect place to snap some incredible photos and create memories that will last a lifetime. How to Reach: Tiger's Leap is easily accessible by road, located just a short drive from Lonavala town. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Karla Caves - Architectural Splendor" comment="subhead" text="Karla Caves - Architectural Splendor">Karla Caves - Architectural Splendor</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="4" msid="110175274" hostid="261" sizebytes="1952476" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Karla Caves: Journey back in time amidst ancient rock-cut wonders.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Uncover the secrets of Karla's ancient caves, crafted over 2,000 years ago! These caves are famous for their amazing architecture and detailed sculptures. Step into the majestic Chaitya Hall and be amazed by the intricate carvings telling stories of Buddhism. It's like walking into a magical world frozen in time. Don't miss the chance to explore these remarkable caves and learn about their rich history and cultural significance. How to Reach: Karla Caves are located approximately 11 kilometres from Lonavala. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the caves. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Bushi Dam - Picturesque Reservoir" comment="subhead" text="Bushi Dam - Picturesque Reservoir">Bushi Dam - Picturesque Reservoir</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="5" msid="110175298" hostid="261" sizebytes="1437703" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Bushi Dam: A tranquil retreat amidst lush greenery.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Leave behind the noise of the city and relax at Bushi Dam, a peaceful lake nestled among beautiful hills and greenery. Have a picnic by the water's edge, dip your toes in the refreshing lake, or just sit back and admire the stunning views around you. It's a perfect spot to unwind and recharge surrounded by nature's tranquility. How to Reach: Bushi Dam is located just a short drive from Lonavala town, easily accessible by car or local transport. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Lohagad Fort - Hilltop Citadel" comment="subhead" text="Lohagad Fort - Hilltop Citadel">Lohagad Fort - Hilltop Citadel</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="6" msid="110175404" hostid="261" sizebytes="1967231" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Lohagad Fort: A majestic fortress with a view to remember.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Transport yourself to the past as you wander through the ancient Lohagad Fort, sitting proudly atop a rocky hill with views of the Sahyadri Mountains. Trek through lush forests and old trails, and feel the history come alive as you explore the impressive ruins. This fort has stood the test of time, and each stone tells a story of its grandeur and strength. Don't miss the chance to delve into the rich history and breathtaking architecture of this remarkable fortress. How to Reach: Lohagad Fort is located approximately 11 kilometres from Lonavala. You can reach the base village by car or bus and then trek to the fort. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Ryewood Park - Tranquil Retreat" comment="subhead" text="Ryewood Park - Tranquil Retreat">Ryewood Park - Tranquil Retreat</cmsannotation> Find peace in the tranquil beauty of Ryewood Park, a vast green space filled with tall trees, colourful flowers, and winding paths. Whether you prefer a leisurely walk, a picnic with loved ones, or simply relaxing in nature's embrace, this park offers it all. Let the serenity of the surroundings wash over you as you escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Ryewood Park is the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with the beauty of the natural world. How to Reach: Ryewood Park is located in the heart of Lonavala town, easily accessible by foot or local transport. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Della Adventure Park - Thrilling Escapade" comment="subhead" text="Della Adventure Park - Thrilling Escapade">Della Adventure Park - Thrilling Escapade</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="7" msid="110175438" hostid="261" sizebytes="2000998" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Della Adventure Park: Where thrill-seekers find their paradise&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Get ready for excitement at Della Adventure Park! This place is packed with thrilling activities like zorbing, zip-lining, rock climbing, and ATV rides. Whether you're a fearless adventurer or just love a good thrill, Della Adventure Park has something for everyone. It's an unforgettable experience that will leave you breathless and wanting more. So, gear up and get ready for an adventure like no other! How to Reach: Della Adventure Park is located on the Old Pune Mumbai Highway, just a short drive from Lonavala town. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Lonavala Lake - Serene Waterbody" comment="subhead" text="Lonavala Lake - Serene Waterbody">Lonavala Lake - Serene Waterbody</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="8" msid="110175461" hostid="261" sizebytes="354221" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Lonavala Lake: Where tranquility meets picturesque beauty.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Relax by the calm waters of Lonavala Lake, surrounded by green hills and lush trees. Take a peaceful boat ride, watch the stunning sunset, or simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere. It's a perfect spot to unwind and connect with nature's beauty. Lonavala Lake offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, allowing you to recharge and rejuvenate in its serene surroundings. How to Reach: Lonavala Lake is located within Lonavala town and is easily accessible by foot or local transport. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Tung Fort - Hilltop Citadel" comment="subhead" text="Tung Fort - Hilltop Citadel">Tung Fort - Hilltop Citadel</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="9" msid="110175501" hostid="261" sizebytes="763659" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Tung Fort: A historic citadel with panoramic vistas of Pawna Lake.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Take on an exciting trek to Tung Fort, sitting high on a rocky hill with views of beautiful Pawna Lake. Take in the stunning scenery of valleys and greenery as you discover the old ruins and defences of this ancient fortress. It's like stepping into history while enjoying breathtaking vistas all around. Tung Fort promises an adventure filled with exploration and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking both excitement and tranquillity. How to Reach: Tung Fort is located approximately 20 kilometres from Lonavala. You can reach the base village by car or bus and then trek to the fort. Whether you're seeking historical marvels, natural wonders, or adrenaline-pumping adventures, Lonavala has something for everyone. So pack your bags, embark on a journey to Lonavala, and immerse yourself in the timeless charm and natural beauty of this enchanting hill station. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Frequently Asked Questions" comment="subhead" text="Frequently Asked Questions">Frequently Asked Questions</cmsannotation> 1. What is the best time to visit Lonavala? The best time to visit Lonavala is during the monsoon season from July to September when the lush greenery is at its peak and waterfalls are in full flow. However, the post-monsoon months from October to November also offer pleasant weather and clear skies, ideal for outdoor activities. 2. What kind of accommodation options are available in Lonavala? Lonavala offers a wide range of accommodation options including luxury resorts, boutique hotels, budget guesthouses, and homestays. Whether you're looking for a lavish retreat or a cosy stay amidst nature, Lonavala has something to suit every traveller's preferences and budget. 3. What are the popular activities to do in Lonavala? <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/india/these-are-top-10-activities-you-need-to-do-on-your-next-trip-to-lonavala/slidelist/100623541.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Popular activities in Lonavala</a> include trekking to forts and caves, exploring scenic viewpoints, indulging in adventure sports at amusement parks, enjoying leisurely boat rides on lakes, and savouring local delicacies at roadside eateries and cafes. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/india/list-of-famous-things-to-buy-in-lonavala/slidelist/100640431.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">List of famous things to buy in Lonavala</a>

Top 10 must-visit destinations in Lonavala in 2024

New Delhi, Feb 14 () IRB Infrastructure Developers on Friday reported a 27 per cent decline in consolidated profit after tax (PAT) at Rs 159.73 crore for the quarter ended December 2019. The infrastructure company had clocked a consolidated PAT of Rs 218.90 crore for the corresponding period a year-ago, it said in a regulatory filing to the BSE. Total income for the quarter declined to Rs 1,790.17 crore as against Rs 1,835.02 crore in the year-ago period. Total expenses increased to Rs 1,534.36 crore, from Rs 1,446.82 crore earlier. The company's Chairman and Managing Director Virendra D Mhaiskar said, "Our execution pace continues to be strong and the quarter marked a return of traffic growth - presumably led by slight pick-up in economic activity across India. With Goa Kundapur project getting commissioned, all of our projects are now revenue generating." He added the company is expecting closure of deal with GIC affiliates soon and also a decision on the Mumbai-Pune expressway project. "Also, we are keenly evaluating a large pipeline of upcoming bids, comprising approx. Rs 10,000 cr TOT (toll-operate-transfer), Rs 26,000 cr BOT (build-operate-transfer) and Rs 48,000 cr HAM (hybrid annuity model) projects, expected to be awarded over the next 1-3 quarters," Mhaiskar said. The company said it has received provisional completion certificate for Goa/Karnataka Border-Kundapur four-laning project on NH-17 and has started tolling. All approvals for transferring nine road assets to the IRB Infrastructure Trust are in place, the statement said. The company has emerged as the single bidder for prestigious Mumbai-Pune Expressway TOT project and is awaiting final outcome from the authorities. Toll collection has seen a growth of 9 per cent QoQ for ongoing concessions. IRB Infrastructure Developers Ltd (IRB) is a private roads and highways infrastructure developer having a track record of constructing over 12,600 lane kms in two decades. NAM ABM

IRB Infra Q3 PAT down 27 pc at Rs 160 cr

New Delhi, Mar 3 () A parliamentary panel on Tuesday suggested lower GST rate for the automobile segment at least till the revival of the sector, and uniform road tax across all states against the backdrop of negative growth in the automobile production since July 2018. A parliamentary panel had examined the Demands for Grants 2020-21 of Department of Heavy Industry (DHI) and tabled its report in Parliament. The automobile industry in India is one of the largest and fastest-growing sector and constitutes 27 per cent of industrial gross domestic product (GDP) and 49 per cent of manufacturing GDP. It provides about 37 million direct and indirect jobs and 15 per cent of total GST collection amounting to Rs 1.5 lakh crore. "But, the committee observes that of late, there is a negative growth in the automobile production since July 2018," said the report. The committee noted that some of the factors that contributed to slowdown are non-availability of credit facility to consumers, stringent rules for loan sanction by banks, rise in price due to the upfront payment of third-party insurance for 5 years, introduction of BS-VI vehicles from April 2020; and higher rate of GST on automobiles and components. Amid slowdown in the sector, the committee, among other things, recommended to either suspend or postpone the upfront payment of insurance for 5 years for the time being and reduction in GST rate to a lower slab "at least till the revival of the auto sector". Further, it made a case for introduction of incentive-based scrappage policy for creating purchase demand for new vehicles, reduction in import duty on lithium-ion cell battery which is used for operating the e-vehicles and levy of uniform road tax across all states. The report said the committee "is pleased to note" that the Delhi-Chandigarh highway has been declared as the first e-vehicle friendly expressway of the country. It desires that other expressways, including Delhi-Jaipur and Mumbai-Pune expressways, may also be made completely e-vehicle friendly soon with charging infrastructure in place at regular and frequent intervals. RSN NKD HRS

Parliamentary panel suggests lower GST rate for auto sector

<keyword id="6354720" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="Ola">Ola</keyword> has shared an analysis of the user and ride data generated from the <keyword id="3814516" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="ola-outstation">Ola Outstation</keyword> category collected May 2016 onwards, which shows some interesting trends on consumer preferences for weekend getaways, popular tourist destinations, average travel days, and popular months through the year for outstation travel. <div type="embedgroup"> <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="58927276" title="77% of Venture Capitalists in IBM “Entrepreneurial India” Study Believe that Indian Startups Lack Innovation" rank="1.0" kind="RELATED" publishDate="May 31, 2017, 5:00 PM" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div></div>
Mumbai - Where most Ola Outstation trips originate: The report takes into consideration preference of commuters across 700 cities in the country that are connected by Ola’s Outstation offering. As per the findings, Mumbai leads the pack of vacationers in the country, closely followed by Delhi, Pune, Hyderabad, Chennai and <keyword id="6354321" type="CITY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Bengaluru">Bengaluru</keyword>. <div type="embedgroup"> <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="58951257" title="These Disruptions made by Flipkart over Ten Years Helped it Lead the E-commerce Sector" rank="1.0" kind="RELATED" publishDate="Jun 01, 2017, 11:49 PM" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div></div>
Top locations on Ola Outstation: The data shows that travelers in India seem to prefer weekend getaways more than longer vacations. Mumbaikars love to hop onto an Ola Outstation to travel to places such as Pune, Lonavala, and Imagica; following suit are Delhiites who have fed their wanderlust through trips to places such as Agra, Neemrana and Jaipur. Punekars have hailed Ola Outstation the most to go to Mumbai, Lonavala and Lavasa. The Mumbai-Pune Expressway is one of the most travelled expressways in India. Travelers love to escape to the Himalayan resort town, Manali, which has emerged as the favourite hill station. They also love to soak the sun in the famous beach town - Puducherry. Shirdi in <keyword id="13126" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Maharashtra">Maharashtra</keyword> has emerged as the most preferred pilgrimage destination, followed by Tirupati and Haridwar. Some other frequently visited locations across the country include; Agra, Jaipur, Kanpur, Lucknow, Puri and Mysuru. <div type="embedgroup"> <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="58839029" title="59% travelers care more about Online Travel Deals Compared to Brands According to This Survey" rank="1.0" kind="RELATED" publishDate="May 25, 2017, 2:48 PM" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div></div>
Additionally, Ola has identified that commuters across the country tend to plan their travel in the months of the year, with the period of April to July and October to December witnessing the most number of outstation rides.

Mumbai & Delhi Citizens Vacation the most, according to Ola’s Outstation Insights

A look at Mumbai through Instagram’s eyes

<img class="gwt-Image" src="/photo/38361145.cms" /> <keyword id="1465149" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Adlabs-Imagica">Adlabs Imagica</keyword>, the flagship venture of <keyword id="1465147" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="100" keywordseo="Adlabs-Entertainment">Adlabs Entertainment</keyword> (AEL), is planning to open <keyword id="434021" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="water-park">water park</keyword> and hotel, according to a media report. 
 
The water park, Aquamagica, and the hotel will be adjacent to the theme park located on the Mumbai-Pune expressway. 
 
Imagica saw one million visitors last week. The company had outlined Rs 1,650 crore for investment in the theme park, the water park and the hotel. 
 
"We had outlined Rs 1,650 crore for our project, including the theme park, the water park and the hotel. Of this, about 80-85% has already been spent on developing the project. This fund was raised by debt through a consortium of 13 banks led by Union Bank," Adlabs Entertainment director and CEO Kapil Bagla said. 
 
In May, Adlabs Entertainment had filed initial papers with market regulator SEBI for its public issue of 2.3 crore equity shares of face value of Rs 10 each. 
 
The company intends to use the funds raised from the fresh issue for payment of loans and general corporate purposes. 
 
The current debt of the company stands at Rs 1,100 crore.

Adlabs Imagica To Open Water Park And Hotel

<img class="gwt-Image" src="/photo/48884310.cms" />Be it land, apartments or commercial realty, every investor wants to own a property on which he can get attractive returns. But, investing in <keyword id="6354553" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="real-estate">real estate</keyword>, especially in cities and metropolitans, is an expensive affair. 
 
In such a scenario, investing in offbeat locations, which require modest investment, could prove to be beneficial. It is the fringes of the cities that are giving attractive investment options today. 
 
The potential is being tapped by developers, who are offering better options to investors in these suburbs. If chosen wisely, these offbeat options can offer significant returns over low investments. 
 
Earlier also, we had highlighted few offbeat locations in Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu that could be a great investing option. Here are few more places that have great scope for investment. 
 
Nagpur, Saswad, Raigad- Maharashtra 
 
These three places in Maharashtra are well-connected with rest of the Maharashtra and are becoming popular among investors. Let’s start with Nagpur. 
 
Nagpur: It is the third largest city of Maharashtra and as per a recent survey, conducted by ABP News-Ipsos, Nagpur has been identified as best city in India. 
 
Nagpur is one of the emerging metropolises and has registered significant growth, making it an attractive destination for real estate developers. There are several development projects underway here. The multi-modal International Cargo Hub and Airport at Nagpur (MIHAN) is the biggest development project, which aims to convert airport into a cargo hub with integrated road and railway connectivity. 
TCS, one of the India’s largest IT company, is building campus in the city and Infosys has also started construction of its Nagpur campus. The city has several prestigious educational institutes as well. 
 
Nagpur will soon have its own metro. Recently, the Maharashtra government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Cisco for making Nagpur a smart and safe city. 
 
Also, Nagpur is a few hours away from Mumbai and Pune. Besides the economic and infrastructural developments, the city also has various public attractions. Sitabuldi Fort and Seminary Hill are few of the attractive tourist locations in Nagpur. 
 
Saswad: Saswad is just 31 km away from Pune railway station and is well connected via city buses too. 
 
The area is in proximity to Jejuri MIDC and Lonand MIDC, amongst others. Saswad also has a number of educational institutes such as Saint Joseph English Medium School, Waghire High School and Waghire College. 
 
Saswad is an ideal location for tourists and is a weekend getaway. The area has many attractive tourist destinations like Jejuri, Malhargad Fort and Purandar Fort amongst others. The place is a perfect match for trekking and exploring. The area has a rich history and cultural heritage. 
 
The location will be viable for land or second home investment. The city is still developing and owing to its proximity to Pune, it has the potential for growth. You can enter with low investment and end up getting profits. The prime benefit in investing in this area is in close proximity to industrial areas, metropolitan city and tourist spots. The infrastructural development in and around the area makes it ideal for investment especially in land. 
 
Raigad: Raigad, a district in Maharashtra, is 84 km away from Mumbai and 110 km from Pune. Panvel, Alibag, Mangaon, Roha, Pen, Khopoli, Kharghar, Taloja, Khalapur, Uran, Patalganga, Rasayani, Nagothana, Poladpur, Alibag, Karjat and Mahad fall under this district. 
 
Raigad is connected to Mumbai through Sion-Panvel Expressway and is accessible via Mumbai-Pune expressway, NH-7 and NH-17. The Maharashtra government is working on a proposal to develop a private smart city at Pen in Raigad district. 
 
Raigad is close to places like Lonavala and Khandala and the presence of Adlabs Imagica, Ballaleshwar Ashtavinayaka temple in the vicinity makes it an ideal location for a getaway. 
 
The area has institutes like Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Technological University, which is the only technical university in Maharashtra. The location has tremendous growth potential making it a promising investment destination. 
 
Trichy, Tamil Nadu 
 
Tiruchirappalli, also known as Trichy, is on the smart city list. Located 322 km south of Chennai and 379 km north of Kanyakumari, it is the fourth largest urban agglomeration in the state. 
 
The city was ranked second cleanest city, according to recent Swachh Bharat Abhiyan survey. 
 
Trichy is a major engineering equipment manufacturing and fabrication hub. Industrial units such as Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL), Golden Rock Railway Workshop and Ordnance Factory Tiruchirappalli (OFT) have factories here. This has lead to significant rise in employment opportunities. 
 
The city is well connected with government owned buses and auto-rickshaws. Trichy is located in close proximity to two prominent National Highways, NH 45 and NH-67. The Railway Heritage centre was inaugurated in 2014 and International airport is only five km away from the main city. The city has various reputed educational institutes like Indian Institute of Management, National Institute of Technology amongst others. Buying land or second home in the city or at the outskirts will be beneficial because of the infrastructural growth in and around the city. 
 
All in all, adding these destinations in your investment portfolio can be a wise decision. Apart from selecting the right location, it is equally important to choose a well reputed developer. It would be ideal to select a developer who has lot of projects in the outskirts and considerable knowledge to manage such investments. 
 
(Author of this article is Lansel D`souza, Senior Vice President, Expat Projects and Development Pvt. Ltd.) 
 
(Image: Thinkstock)

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