SmartCity Kochi Directors Board meets for a formality

Kochi: Yet another meeting of the Board of Directors of the proposed SmartCity Kochi project was held today at Kochi with both parties sticking to their earlier stands. Briefing the media after the short Directors Board meeting, Fareed Abdul Rehman, CEO of Tecom, the promoters of the SmartCity Kochi, said that while Tecom was ready to go ahead with the terms as mentioned in the original agreement, they were not ready to give up their demands.

This Board of Directors meeting was held in the backdrop of the State Government having issued a two weeks deadline to Tecom, to inform their intention of going ahead with the project. Tecom has asked for an extension of the deadline (till September 30, 2010) for responding to the Government’s ultimatum. Fisheries Minister S Sarma, who is also the Chairman of the SmartCity Kochi Board said, after the meeting, that the decision on extending the date for Tecom to reply would be taken in the next Cabinet meeting.

The Directors Board meetings are held once in three months under the statutory requirements of the Companies Act. The last such meeting was held on June 28, 2010 at Kochi. As expected, today’s meeting also did not take any decision on the contentious issues, including the right to freehold land for the promoters.

Meanwhile SmartCity Kochi has renewed the lease of its office at Josh Towers in Kochi.


Source: http://keralaitnews.com/other-it-news/smartcity/1415-smartcity-kochi-directors-board-meeting

Cabinet approves 4 lane highway to Cochin container terminal

New Delhi, India, April 12, 2007 - The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs today gave its approval for undertaking the Project for Rs.557.0 crore for providing 4 lane NH Connectivity to the proposed International Container Transshipment Terminal (ICTT) at Vallarpadam, Cochin, Kerala using cess funds.

This project has been undertaken as per commitment given to the Licensee of ICTT. Being a first Container Transshipment Terminal in India, considerable savings in transshipment cost currently incurred via third country ports (Colombo) are expected.
The Project will be implemented by NHAI and is to be completed within a period of 30 months and will be commencing from April, 2007.
In January, 2005, the Cabinet approved the proposal for development and operation of International Container Transshipment Terminal (ICTT) in Cochin on Build Operate and Transfer (BOT basis). Accordingly, Cochin Port Trust signed a license agreement on 31.01.2005 with M/s. India Gateway Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of Dubai Port International, UAE. As per License Agreement, provision of 4 Lane NH connectivity inter-alia is a condition precedent. Accordingly, the Cabinet has now approved a Project for 4 lane NH Connectivity at a cost of Rs.557.0 crore.

SEZ status cleared for $350 million Kochi Smart City

Kochi, Kerala, June 20, 2007 - The Centre has granted SEZ clearance for the $350 million Kochi Smart City promoted by the Kerala Government and Dubai based TECOM Investment. The project aims to develop 88 lakh sq.ft of built-up space and supporting infrastructure for IT and ITES firms and can generate 90,000 jobs over the next 10 years. The Kerala Government will have an initial stake of 16% that will increase to 26% after 5 years.

Sobha Developers to build Kochi township in massive Kerala real estate deal

Kochi, India, August 20, 2007 - Sobha Developers Ltd has announced that the Company will be signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Government of Kerala on August 20, 2007 at Thiruvananthapuram for setting up the largest township development in Maradu, Kochi - SOBHA HITECH CITY. Maradu is a high potential part of Kochi City with a number of  developments including five star hotels, shopping malls and IT parks coming up here.

The draft of the MOU has already been approved by the Government of Kerala. The MOU seeks to reinforce the Public Private Partnership (PPP) initiative by the Government of Kerala, spearheaded by the Department of Industries & Commerce.
SOBHA HITECH CITY project will create an integrated city of world-class standards with a focus on Research & Development, Knowledge Dissemination, Electronics, Information Technology and Pure & Applied Sciences. It will involve an investment of Rs 5,000 Cr, the highest such development in the state and is expected to create 75,000 direct jobs.
The salient features of the MOU are:
- The project will come up near Maradu in Kochi in a land area of around 400 acres, out of which around 320 acres have already been acquired. It will include a 7 million Sq.Ft, Knowledge Park, shopping malls and avenues, hospitality projects (hotels, resorts and other leisure facilities), residential complexes and all related infrastructure, including a unique Marina of international standards, creating a substantial number of technology jobs, in addition to numerous non-technology jobs, and be a source of significant revenues to the Government.
- The Government will provide a Single Window Clearance for the project.
- The Government will provide permission for land development, provision of necessary utilities, facilitation for environmental and other clearances, acquisition of limited land areas etc; and the Company will implement a rehabilitation package as per recommendations of the Government.
Infrastructure work will commence soon after the signing of the MOU. The project is expected to take 8 to 10 years for completion after receipt of necessary approvals.

Rs 500 crore residential project planned in Kochi

Kochi, India, September 11, 2007 - Malayalle Realtors India Pvt Ltd is to set up "Smart Village" in 55 acres of land at Manjapara near Nedumbassery at a cost of Rs 500 crore.

The project will feature premium villas, row houses, apartments, and studio apartments according to Mr Sabu Karikkassery, its Chairman.
By INRnews Correspondent

DLF invites Private Equity players to its middle income homes business

New Delhi, India, November 20, 2007 - DLF Ltd has announced that the Company has attracted participation of private equity real estate funds in its township projects by diluting 49% equity stake at a premium, in seven residential projects to a Merrill Lynch & Co entity for a consideration of Rs 1481 crore.

The mid-income housing projects, located in Chennai, Bangalore, Kochi and Indore would get fully developed in about 7 - 8 years time frame.

In a related but separate transaction, the Company has also diluted 49% of its equity stake at a premium, in another middle-income housing project in Panchkula, Haryana to Brahma Investments, for a consideration of Rs 194 crore.

Speaking on the development, Mr. T C Goyal, MD, of the Company, said, "as a part of its strategic objective, DLF continues to remain focused on keeping its net economic interest in homes business to a ten year development horizon. Accordingly, these two transactions shall help DLF unlock its investments in land resource for the eight projects and also help in increasing rate of return to DLF shareholders. Besides resulting in positive NAV accretion for DLF, the transactions would provide good returns for the PE investor."

HDIL to set up Kochi IT Park

Kochi, India, September 13, 2007 - Mumbai-based real estate developer Housing Development and Infrastructure Ltd (HDIL) is to set up an IT park at Kalamassery, near Kochi. HDIL Cybercity will come up on a 70-acre plot with a total built-up area of 7.9 million sq ft of which 5.4 million sq ft will be used for IT space and the rest for hospitality, retail and entertainment.

The total investment in the project is Rs 2,000 crore.
HDIL will make the investment through its subsidiary Blue Star Realtors Pvt Ltd.  Blue Star Realtors Pvt Ltd have in October 2006, pursuant to bids called by HMT, purchased by Deed of Absolute Sale from HMT, land situated at Kalamaserry, Ernakulam, admeasuring 70 acres. Blue Star Realtors Pvt Ltd has entered into a Joint Development Agreement with HDIL for development of said 70 acres of property at Kalamaserry.

Sudhir Gopi Developers launches apartments in Guruvayur, Kerala

Kochi, India, September 18, 2007 -  Sudhir Gopi Developers Private Ltd (SGDPL) has launched its debut project ‘Vaikundam Retreat’, a 11-storied fully air-conditioned apartment complex at the temple town of Guruvayur in Kerala.

According to Mr Sudhir Gopi, Chairman and Managing Director, Sudhir Gopi Holdings the parent company of SGDPL, the group plans to build service apartments in pilgrim centers in South India. SGDPL is planning projects in Kochi, Thrissur, Thiruvananthapuram and in the Pathanamthitta district and targets a turnover of Rs 500 crore in three years.

Simplex Infra bags Rs 580cr worth ICTT project at Kochi

Kochi, India, November 24, 2007 - Simplex Infrastructures Ltd., one of India’s leading infrastructure solutions providers, today, has been awarded the largest marine project, ICTT Kochi Phase 1A Civil Works, at Kochi by DP World. The project is worth Rs. 580 crore and is proposed to be completed within a period of 24 months.

Commenting on this, Mr. Amitabh Mundhra, Director, Simplex Infrastructures Ltd. said, “We, at Simplex, are glad to be associated with one of India’s most ambitious maritime projects. It strengthens our aim to capitalize on the opportunities emerging in marine works apart from other infrastructure verticals. We are confident that this project will provide Simplex an opportunity to add to Vallarpadam’s development.”
“Simplex Infrastructures would also contribute towards the Social Responsibility and Community Service Program in Kochi. Keeping in mind the gaping demand for better infrastructure, we are committed to economic and social prosperity of the nation. Moreover, our order book standing at approximately Rs. 8,000 crore, is growing not only in terms of quantity but in quality as well,” he added.

Property in Kerala, God's Own Country

Kerala in South India displays breathtaking beauty while denoting rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. An ideal tourist destination, it is the choice of millions of domestic and international travelers. The entry of prominent property developers and the perpetually growing demand from buyers & investors have been major boosters for Kerala real estate.

The property trends in Southern India have been changing with an emerging class of middle class buyers as well as growing NRI investments. The aspirations of people are now amplifying as cost of living increases and inflation sets in the country. Property in Kerala is among the most sought after investment choices for people both within and outside the nation. In residential segment, structures like premium apartments, multi storied flats, duplexes, etc. are coming up. The housing sector is already the favorite across India be it in a metro city or any of the tier-II, III & IV cities. Both luxury and affordable housing are developing at a rapid speed but mega apartment projects launched by leading builders at reasonable prices remain the buzz. 

The real estate in India is the most viable option for investment currently as all cities, towns and suburbs blossom exponentially. Kerala realty takes you to the lap of nature with its picturesque surroundings, notable biodiversity and sparkling beaches. Some of the places witnessing large scale developments in the state are Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city; Kochi and Kozhikode. Undergoing an unprecedented construction boom, property market in ‘God’s Own Country’ is welcoming various transformations in its infrastructure. Being the hottest tourist spot in India, real estate in Kerala is progressing towards meeting international standards and setting new benchmarks. This most preferred realty hub is attracting numerous builders who are willing to pump in huge amounts of money into the sector.

Some of the important cities of Kerala include Kochi, Kozhikode, Palakkad, Alleppey, Trichur, Perumbavoor, Thekkady and Thiruvananthapuram among others. Buying property in kochi or Kerala has become easier with simple loan schemes extended by various financial institutions and banks. Finance companies act as a catalyst that enables home buyers to build their dream homes whenever they want. One should ideally opt for longer repayment tenure to enjoy maximum subsidies and to pay reduced amount of EMIs. With the announcement of Union Government on revising interest rates, it is to get convenient for buyers to finance their properties. The above measures are going to prove great help for Kerala real estate in expanding manifold and bring it to the levels of property market in metro cities. The property sector had begun reviving early this year as robust econ

Source: http://www.stockmarketsreview.com/realestate/2010/09/14/property-in-kerala-gods-own-country/

Three new projects fuel boom in Kochi

A move by the Kerala state government to set up a Smart City at Kochi has triggered off a fresh rally in real estate prices in the central districts of Kerala, especially in and around Kochi.
The real estate and construction business in Kerala have been passing through a dull phase after new and stringent norms on registration and stamp duty were introduced some months ago.
The announcement of the Smart City project has added life to the segment recently.
The government will soon tie up with the Technology and Media Free zone Authority (TECOM) of Dubai to set up the Smart City, one of the largest IT infrastructure projects of India at Kakkanad, near Kochi city.
Around two years back, the UDF government had announced the project and this had led to a surge in real estate prices in Kochi and surrounding areas.
Almost all the major builders of India had acquired land at Kakkanad area and the value of land had increased by manifolds.
Thereafter, LDF had swept to power in the elections and work on the project was slowed down.
Now after a year, the project is about to take off.
The project was expected to create jobs for 90,000 professionals in the city and this would create demand for apartments.
According to major builders, around 30,000 apartments and flats would be needed in Kochi in three years.
By 2015, Kochi would need more than 100,000 plus apartments.
Three mega projects, the Vallarpadam International Container Terminal (VICT), Petronet's LNG terminal and the Smart City, were expected to lead to 200,000 jobs while related projects like the bunkering terminal, single point mooring (SPM) and new hotels would add to demand for apartments.
In the last few months, land value in Kochi's Kakkanad area climbed 75 per cent.
A large number of land deals were being done in Kochi localities like Vyttila bye pass (NH 47) and the Sea Port to Airport Road.
Prices per centiare near NH 47 was Rs 20 lakh and on the Sea port - Airport Road it was Rs 6 -8 lakh.
According to K A Mohammed Salim, managing director of Asset Homes, land prices in Kochi were lower than most other tier-II cities and hence the interest among builders.
Salim said that the construction of flats would surge in the coming years and investments to the tune of Rs 6000 -7000 crore would be required in the next three years.
Villas were also in demand in major towns in the average price band of Rs 50 -70 lakh per unit.
But major builders agreed that demand for apartments would drive growth in the future with prices being in the Rs 15 -25 lakh band, affordable for professionals.
Salim said the surge in land prices could derail plans to build villas as unit prices could soon exceed Rs 1 crore per unit.
Demand for flats, especially from NRIs, was already high and most flats were being booked as soon as bookings opened.
Major builders were concentrating on sales in the Persian Gulf region and around 50 per cent of flats were being sold within a month of announcement of a project.
In Kochi city, around 5000 flats were under construction at present.
Demand was so high that extension of the city outwards in all directions was inevitable.
In the north, land upto Thrissur 80km away on NH 47 was now being described as being suitable for apartments in future and land value was rising in areas like the Nedumbassery-Angamally area where the international airport was situated.
In the south, the road to Cherthala was suitable and in fact, in Cherthala, some large apartment projects were coming up.
Other areas to see development included the south-eastern suburbs of the Thripunithura-Chottanikkara and the north-western areas of Varapuzha, North Parur and Vypin Island.
The city of Kochi was at present slowly spreading to around 70 per cent of the land area of Ernakulam district as very little land was available within the city limits.
The city was already extended upto the Kalamassery and Aluva municipalities since these were areas adjacent areas of the old city.
Hectic construction was also going on the reclaimed land near Goshree bridges connecting the city with Vypin island.
The development of infrastructure projects and the new road-rail connectivity would revive the fortunes of the city and a number of big hotel projects had been announced recently.
However, the unique eco-system of the city was under threat as a major portion of the paddy fields were now being taken over and developed into flats and housing projects.
High real estate prices was likely to edge out many of the older residents of Kochi city and its suburbs to other districts.
Source: http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/three-new-projects-fuel-boom-in-kochi/283059/

A visual treat from the South

Kerala is a famous tourist destination not just in India but even across the globe.

But apart from being a picturesque holiday destination, God's Own Country is also known for its classical dance forms, Mohiniattam and Kathakali.

The latter is a highly stylized classical dance-drama noted for the attractive make-up of characters, elaborate costumes, detailed gestures and well-defined body movements presented in tune with the playback music and complementaty percussion. And the combined effect is awe-inspiring.

And Lucknowites got a chance to witness both these amazing classical dance forms of Kerala in a function organized at a hotel in the city. The event kick-started with a Mohiniattam performance by four dancers. The performance mesmerized one and all, as the ladies displayed impeccable synchronization. But the highlight of the event was the Kathakali performance. The expressions of the performers left the audience spellbound, as the duo enacted an emotionally charged drama. The evening culminated with a befitting performance, which was a fusion of Kathakali and Mohiniattam.

Read more: A visual treat from the South - The Times of India http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/parties/others/A-visual-treat-from-the-South/articleshow/6518223.cms#ixzz0zEVTAh5D



Source: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/parties/others/A-visual-treat-from-the-South/articleshow/6518223.cms

Website offers cooking guides to Onam dishes

f there is any culinary doubt about any particular item in the luxuriant ‘sadya’ spread, there is no need to wait for a popular cookery show on TV. Just log on to www.indiavideo.org. Recipes, and more usefully cooking video guides or video tutorials, of more than 25 sadya-related dishes, from ‘inchi thairu’ and ‘manga pachadi’ to ‘ada pradhaman,’ are featured in a special Onam gallery of the website.  The site, maintained by Invis Multimedia, is developed in association with Kerala Tourism. The website is mainly intended for non-resident Keralites. ‘’Around 1.85 million Keralites work outside Kerala and the video guides will help them prepare the sadya at home,’’ a statement here said. Besides giving recipes as text, the site offers online video tutorials of dishes. ‘’Even non-Malayalis can test these recipes since the narration is in English. Dishes, which have a ritualistic importance, like the ‘poovada’ (steam-baked pancake), have also been included,’’ the release said. Former Union Minister Shashi Tharoor had tweeted about the site on August 17. Though he admits he had not yet tried these dishes himself, he reveals that the voice on the video is that of his sister Sobha.  www.indiavideo.org is a website featuring the geographical, and cultural marvels of the country. The portal is envisaged as an online video encyclopaedia on India. Only professional video clips are included in the site, the statement said.

Fort Kochi to get a clean, beautiful look

Fort Kochi might soon be a clean and hygienic paradise, with beautiful sidewalks and zero garbage!   The Kochi Corporation and the Tourism Department in association with the Kudumbashree Mission are  all set to launch the ‘Zero Waste Fort Kochi - Tourist Destination Project’ at Fort Kochi.   The project will be launched on Friday at a meeting to be held at the Santacruz Basilica Parish Hall, Fort Kochi.   The project aims at the overall tourism development of Fort Kochi and Fort Kochi Veli areas through better solid waste management. Decentralised waste management and general beautification of the area will be the focus of the project.    The Department of Tourism has pledged `43 lakh for the project which is to be implemented with the active cooperation of  various stakeholders, including the Kochi Corporation, residential associations, home stays, hoteliers and NGOs.    “The project is being implemented as a part of the Department of Tourism’s ‘Clean Destination Project,” District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) Secretary Shine said. The implementation of the project will transform Fort Kochi into a much cleaner and more beautiful destination, Kochi Corporation Development Committee chairman and councillor of Fort Kochi Veli K J Sohan said.  Kudumbashree, the implementing agency, has prepared elaborate plans for the project. Apart from decentralised management of biodegradable waste in the area, a system to manage the huge amount of waste, and re-cycling of various types of waste are being planned as a part of the project.The Kudumbashree Mission envisages seven employment generating schemes from the project. An employment generating activity of making handicraft out of coconut shells, a paper recycling project, a collection centre for re-usable items, a non-plastic manufacturing unit using clothes, paala (arecanut leaf) and grass,  a maintenance unit which provides the service of skilled labourers like masons, plumbers and electricians, a vermi-compost making unit, and a gardening and beautification unit to beautify the roadsides and walkways.  The Kudumbashree Mission is planning to implement the project in a phased manner in a year or two. The falling of shade trees and branches, which is another problem in the area, might also be solved as the Kudumbashree Mission is  planning to buy the necessary equipment to prune and maintain the shade trees and employ skilled people to manage it, as a part of the project. The falling of huge branches of big shade trees in various parts of Fort Kochi recently had caused much damage to shops, houses and electric posts.

Kerala tourism: responsible tourism scheme to increased seasonal trade

It’s called responsible tourism. The travel trade in Kerala is beginning to rope in local communities and the environment to cater to a growing number of visitors with sensitivity.
Tourism vendors and stakeholders in four destinations – the beach retreat of Kovalam, the backwaters of Kumarakom, the hills of Kumily and the forests of Wayanad – have brought on board farmers, craftsmen, fisherfolk, women and unskilled labour force and are providing them sustainable livelihoods.
A declaration to make tourism more responsible was adopted at the Responible Tourism Conference in Cochin three years ago. And the benefits are beginning to show.
Every morning the kitchen crew at the sprawling Kumarakom Lake Resort, spread across 25 lush acres on the bank of the Vembanad lake in Kottayam, procure their vegetables, coconuts, fish, milk and rice from local farmers and fishermen.
The heritage resort, owned by the Paul Group of Hotels, is one of the 10 hotels in the Kumarakom backwater region that has implemented the Responsible Tourism Programme. Having bagged several global tourism awards, it is eco-friendly with minimum waste stipulation and recycling facilities.
‘We need around 150 coconuts and several kilos of karimeen (a sought-after local variety of fish), scambi (lake water prawns) and milk in the kitchen every day. We pay the growers and fishermen much more than the market procurement price which makes the transactions much more lucrative for them,’ Joseph Garcia, general manager of the hotel, told IANS.
‘The stocks are supplied by local women’s self-help groups known as Kudumbasree, which procures the meat, milk, cereals and vegetables from the growers.’
Launched by the Kerala government in 1998, Kudumbasree is one of the biggest women’s empowerment projects in the country aimed at eradicating poverty at the grassroots. It has more than 3.7 million members and covers nearly 50 percent of the rural households in the state, cites a government estimate.

Source: http://calcuttatube.com/kerala-tourism-responsible-tourism-scheme-to-increased-seasonal-trade/118355/

Kerala top holiday destination in Asia

Kerala’s serene beaches, tranquil stretches of emerald backwaters, lush hill stations and exotic wildlife has emerged as the winning combination for the travellers to vote the state as the best Asian holiday destination ahead of Bali, Phuket and the Maldives.

The accolade was revealed in the ‘Best in Travel poll 2010’ carried out by an independent online travel magazine Smart Travel Asia. It is a destination of reader’s perception and favourite travel brands. The poll, conducted throughout May-July this year, puts the spotlight on ‘aspirational” brands and travel trends in the region.

Bali and Phuket were voted as second and third most favourite holiday destinations in Asia. The only other Indian destinations to be listed in the top 10 were Rajasthan and Goa which came in at eighth and tenth spot respectively.

“This is phenomenal recognition for the state and the people who are in the tourism sector, delivering an inspirational experience. Keralites should feel very proud of their contribution to this fantastic international achievement”, says Secretary, Kerala Tourism, V. Venu. The awards are unique because they single out not just popular places but truly exceptional places that enthrall travellers and keep them coming back, he added.

The vote is based on actual travel experience, word-of-mouth, as well as an idea of the brand drawn from ads and PR. Voters polled in 12 categories including Asia's best business hotels, luxury resorts, spas, destinations, business cities, shopping spots, and the world's best airlines and airports.

Bangalore figures in the eighth position in the top 10 cities in Asia for businesses. Jet Airways figure in the top 10 airlines worldwide and those for business class and for cabin services. In the category of budget airline, Spice jet and Kingfisher Red figure in the top 10.

Approximately 60 per cent of voters are based in Asia (largely Singapore, Australia, Hong Kong, India, China, Japan, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, and the Middle East), 20 per cent in UK/Europe and 20 per cent in USA and North America.

On average, voters took 13.56 air trips over the last 12 months and earned US$164,501 in household income. Smart Travel Asia has over one million readers worldwide.

Source: http://www.thehindu.com/life-and-style/travel/article605578.ece

Alappuzha, God's Own Country

Kerala, Alappuzha

To see the backwaters, you should go nowhere but Alappuzha. That is why kerala is often referred to as God's Own Contry. Everything is so sublime there. Enjoy !!!

Infra Vantage, Kakkanad

As busy professionals you probably spend a large part of your life in cramped office spaces, and look forward to have a relaxing time at home. A home which offers independence in spaces you can call your own. With lots of fresh air and the privacy which you need and look forward to. Infra Vantage, coming up in Kakkanad, the IT capital of Kerala is opposite to CSEZ, adjacent to the Seaport/Airport road and near lnfopark. It is designed keeping in mind these very demanding needs of a professional. With unique features like independent apartments with no common sharing walls and a sprawling clubhouse with a host of amenities, this project promises to rejuvenate you to face a healthier tomorrow.


Infra Vantage also stands apart as an ideal investment opportunity as it is situated in Kakkanad, Kochi, the IT destination of Kerala. Infra Vantage comes to you from Infra Housing Pvt. Ltd., builders with a decade of experience in building quality living spaces in the most preferred locations of Kochi.

Source: http://www.infrahousing.com/vantage_project.html#top

Infra Aspire

Infra Aspire, the new luxury apartment complex from Infra Housing, gives wings to your aspirations. Coming up in Kakkanad, the emerging satellite city of Kochi, just 500 mts from the collectorate, 100 mts from VSNL office and near to the main road, the compact 2&3 bedroom apartment complexes also comes with an attractive price tag


Source:
http://www.infrahousing.com/aspire_project.html#top

Infra Hillock Phase-III

Infra Hillock Phase-III, adjacent to Infra Hillock Phase - I & II, set amidst’ a sprawling 1.25 acres of prime property on Parijatham Road, Kalamassery at the gateway to Changampuzha Nagar Housing Colony. Just 100 meters off the Ernakulam - Aluva sector of the NH 47 Four lane express highway. The nearest pickup point of every school in Cochin City, bus stop at walkable distance and frequent bus services ensures easy access to schools, colleges, markets, places of worship, railway stations, bus stations, and the Cochin International Airport at Nedumbassery. The very convenient location that made Infra Hillock Phase - I&II a popular choice.

Source:
http://www.infrahousing.com/compl_pro_hillrock_phase3.html#top

Infra Hamlin, Panampilly Nagar

Infra Hamlin, Panampilly Nagar, the most prestigious residential locale of Cochin, with elegant homes, beautifully maintained roads & landscape gardens need no introduction for people seeking the best residential address in Cochin city.Infra Hamlin is located equidistantly 1.3 kms from Malayala Manorama Junction & Kadavanthra and is just 500 mtrs. from the main avenue of Panampilly Nagar Link Road, behind Bhavan's Vidhya Mandir, Girinagar. Wide access roads, shopping complexes, clubs, banks, restaurants, schools, educational institutions,offices, places of worship are few of the many conveniences and comforts, coupled with the elite neighbourhood makes Infra Hamlin Panampilly Nagar an exclusive choice. Hamlin is a ground plus 12-story'd apartment complex housing 30 homes.

Source: http://www.infrahousing.com/compl_pro_hamlin.html#top

Sahara Grace - adding grace to Kakkanad, kochi

There are 4 types of Blocks in Sahara Grace :


Block A (Total Units 156)

• B+G+24 Floors •1 Floor Recreational • 3 Blocks • Parking B+ G+1



Block B (Total Units 320)

• B+G+19 Floors • 4 Blocks • Parking B+ G+2



Block C- C1,C2,C3 (Total Units 132)

• B+G+12 Floors • 3 Blocks • Parking B+G+1



Block C - C4, C5 (Total Units 88)

• G+12 Floors •2 Blocks • Parking G+1



Block D (Total Units 32)

• G+9 Floors •2 Blocks • Parking G+1

Source: http://saharagracekochi.com/project-details.html

Kakkanad, in perfect tune with the future

Once an unassuming suburb of Kochi, Kakkanad is now its fastest developing residential and commercial destination, and is even slated to be Kochi’s future Central Business District.

This picturesque hilly region is becoming the preferred work and residential address of several corporate houses including MNCs, who find that this leafy valley brings them closer to their lifestyle aspirations..

The fortunes of Kakkanad began to change with the shifting of the Civil Station, headquarters of the city administration, from Ernakulam to Kakkanad, and the setting up of the Special Economic Processing Zone (SEPZ) in the area. A recent decision to shift all central government offices to Kakkanad from Ernakulam will further enhance the value of this scenic neighbourhood.

The completion of the Seaport-Airport Road and the proximity to National Highway 47 have given an impetus to the growth and development of Kakkanad. Availability of quality ground water, more open roads, good connectivity and modern infrastructure have added to its appeal.

Kakkanad is home to reputed educational institutes including those for engineering, medicine and management. There are plans afoot for a Bus Terminal, through which all the buses for Kochi will need to enter. Also on the anvil, are plans for an FM station and the Kakkanad Medical Centre, which will include a 100 bed hospital.

New Town Heights, DLF Kakkanad - a residential estate, has the enchanting scenic beauty of a mountain valley, with its gently sloping hills and lush green surroundings. Yet, it has excellent access to the rest of Kochi, being on the Seaport-Airport Road, just 750 mts from the Collectorate and within 200 mts of the Kochi Special Economic Zone (CSEZ), Muthoot Technopolis, the Info Park, the KINFRA Park, the Bio Tech Park and the fast developing Smart City. This much sought after residential estate offers residents not only superb accommodation options but also the lifestyle privileges of having an excellent clubhouse, shopping and even office facilities within its precincts.

Source: http://www.dlf.in/dlf/wcm/connect/dlf_home/Homes/Homes/Projects/New+Projects/New+Town+Heights+Kakkanad/

Mammootty is brand ambassador for Pearls Infra -Pearls to set up Pearls Riviera at Panayikulam

Actor Mammootty will be the brand ambassador for Pearls Infrastructure Projects Limited in Kerala. The well-known Australian cricketer Brett Lee would be pan-India brand ambassador for the company, its representative Pratik Kumar told reporters on Friday.



Pearls, which has presence in 15 states, plans to set up two state-of-the-art residential complexes in Kochi – Pearls Riviera and Pearls Garden View. Pearls is also involved in developing large agro-based and township projects in Kerela.

Pearls Riviera spread over 9.65 acres surrounded by lush greenery close to the banks of a river. Pearls Riviera will have more than 1,300 flats with facilities like swimming pool, clubhouse and landscaped gardens.

The Pearls Garden View is 11-storey twin tower spread across two acres of land having 142 flats. This will have two landscaped gardens on every floor. The complex, located on Chilavannoor road also has 100-ft swimming pool, sports complex, landscaped greens, jogging and paved tracks.






Source: http://sify.com/finance/mammootty-is-brand-ambassador-for-pearls-infra-news-news-ki2bkqeiehd.html

Plaza Centers’ project in Thiruvananthapuram

Europe-based property developer Plaza Centers has acquired about 10.78 acre land Thiruvananthapuram Rs.106 crore. The land was acquired in a 50:50 joint venture with a leading Indian property developer, Plaza Centers said in a release. “This transaction further demonstrates Plaza’s ambition to expand its activities beyond central and eastern Europe,” Plaza Centers CEO Ran Shtarkman said.

The company intends to use the plot to develop a project totalling 2.1 million sq ft, comprising a shopping- cum-entertainment centre with a total area of about 7.2-lakh sq.ft., an office complex of 9.7-lakh sq ft and a hotel of 4-lakh sq ft. –




Source: http://www.hindu.com/pp/2007/06/23/stories/2007062350600400.htm

Do you think the government intervention has hampered the growth in Real Estate in Kerala

We have seen it all in Real Estate in Kerala. It had a sharp raise, the graph of which went past the limits, then came down sharply to stay in a state of stagnancy. Experts say that the boom that we saw in Kerala property sector was a bubble, created by the so called Real Estate brokers or realtors. It became a habit among them, even among the smallest of brokers to buy lands with mortgaged money and sell them at double the price they bought within a week or month’s span. They did not buy the land in fact, they kept the land owner on a three-month agreement period and to the amusement of the land owner, or rather to their shock the brokers sold the land twice or thrice the agreement rate. This was a routine that we used to see in Kochi one to two years back. That bubble was bound to bust and indeed it did, albeit with the global recession. Now, the brokers have left the buying to the needy. Only those who desperately need plots to build a house or a flat to live, is keeping the industry alive. This sort of consolidation is there in every flied and it will not take long for the Real Estate sector to bounce back even stronger, even without the contribution from the brokers with their “three-month agreements” period. The so called “three-month agreement.” robbed government of so much revenue during this period. If it had not been for the government intervention to increase the stamp duty and nullifying the value of agreements, the land price would have rocketed sky limits. But do you really think government should have intervened to curb the growth in Real Estate?. Do you think the government intervention has hampered the growth of Real Estate in Kerala, which in a way hampered our economic growth? Has it dented people’s investment opportunities?. Why cannot government leave the Real Estate as a sector and allow it to grow?.






Share your views in this blog…………..we are listening.




By ligith

Finding great plots or fancy plots in Kochi or the surrounding areas of Eranakulam has been very difficult

Finding great plots or fancy plots in Kochi or the surrounding areas of Eranakulam has been very difficult, but it has been our endeavor to find the right land or property in Kochi or surrounding places of Eranakulam for customers. Cochin has seen a great boom in realty in the recent times and steep rise in property price has made it difficult for average people to afford more than 3 cents to 10 cents of land for house construction in Kochi. When the plot becomes fancy, when it has easy accessibility to the town, people sometimes compromise on the land value. But value of land has always been an issue for both buyers and sellers.




Only the person, who runs for the cents of land to construct a house knows the difficulties he can encounter there. Most of the customers look for original land, not the filled-in land, where the foundation cost can be much higher than for the original land. Sometimes, we can trust rocks in the land. Earlier, we never preferred rocky land while considering a land purchase. Since, now people are looking for 3 cent to 5 cents of plots in Kochi, they do not look into the cultivable aspect of the land, instead they look how cost effective that would be in constructing a house there. Sometimes, if we choose the right land – original land- we may save more than half on the total expense in the foundation cost. Ideally, there is nothing wrong in giving some extra amount for the kind of land you really like.
 
 
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By
 
Ligith

Can the government action to curb Real Estate deals be justified?

We have seen it all in Real Estate in Kerala. It had a sharp raise, the graph of which went past the limits, then came down sharply to stay in a state of stagnancy. Experts say that the boom that we saw in Kerala property sector was a bubble, created by the so called Real Estate brokers or realtors. It became a habit among them, even among the smallest of brokers to buy lands with mortgaged money and sell them at double the price they bought within a week or month’s span. They did not buy the land in fact, they kept the land owner on a three-month agreement period and to the amusement of the land owner, or rather to their shock the brokers sold the land twice or thrice the agreement rate. This was a routine that we used to see in Kochi one to two years back. That bubble was bound to bust and indeed it did, albeit with the global recession. Now, the brokers have left the buying to the needy. Only those who desperately need plots to build a house or a flat to live, is keeping the industry alive. This sort of consolidation is there in every flied and it will not take long for the Real Estate sector to bounce back even stronger, even without the contribution from the brokers with their “three-month agreements” period. The so called “three-month agreement.” robbed government of so much revenue during this period. If it had not been for the government intervention to increase the stamp duty and nullifying the value of agreements, the land price would have rocketed sky limits. But do you really think government should have intervened to curb the growth in Real Estate?. Do you think the government intervention has hampered the growth of Real Estate in Kerala, which in a way hampered our economic growth? Has it dented people’s investment opportunities?. Why cannot government leave the Real Estate as a sector and allow it to grow?.




Share your views in this blog…………..we are listening.




By ligith