Mumbai: Century-old seafront 'Seven Bungalows' to be demolished

12 Mar 2024 CW Team

In a secluded corner of Versova, a private gate opened to reveal a long, narrow dirt track leading to a bungalow situated near the shore. Despite the seemingly dilapidated appearance of the solid Burma teak roof, the interior boasted 20 rooms with high ceilings, a grand hall adorned with stained glass work, and flooring made of Italian Carrara marble. Two wells adorned the exterior, with one bearing an insignia tile engraved with "1900 AD," signifying the year of construction for both the bungalow and the wells.

Formerly known as Talati Bungalow, named after the Parsi family of Sorabji Talati, the current owners of the property, now renamed Rattan Kunj, are facing the imminent threat of its disappearance. On February 29, the BMC issued a notice to the property owners, instructing them to vacate and demolish the structure. The notice, issued by the K-West ward office, claimed that the structure was in a "ruinous state" and "likely to fall," based on the findings of the BMC's technical advisory committee (TAC), which assesses the condition of structures and determines if they are beyond repair.

Shaloo Rahul Barar and her two sons, co-owners of the property spanning over one acre along the Versova coast, alleged a conspiracy to force them out. Barar stated, "We are aware that an Andheri builder aims to redevelop the land and oust us by declaring the bungalow as 'dilapidated.'" She revealed that Rattan Kunj underwent a structural audit notice for the first time in 124 years, coinciding with the time when the co-owners were approached by a developer. According to Barar, the audit report indicated that the structure passed the tests, requiring only minor repairs, which were promptly addressed. Despite the other co-owners having moved out, the Barars stand as the sole resistance. Barar acknowledged a dispute between her and another faction of the family, which also has a stake in the property, as the situation unfolds.

Infrastructure Urban

07 Oct 2025

India To Invest $37 Billion To Boost Petrochemical Capacity

India is set to become a major global player in the petrochemicals industry, driven by a planned capital expenditure of $37 billion (Rs 3.1 trillion) aimed at reducing import dependency and enhancing self-sufficiency, according to S&P Global Ratings.In its latest report titled “First China, Now India: Self-Sufficiency Goals Will Add To Petrochemicals Supply”, S&P said India’s large-scale capacity expansion—mirroring China’s earlier push—will likely intensify oversupply pressures in Asia’s petrochemical markets.Currently the world’s third-largest petrochemical consumer a..

Indian Railways Expands Global Exports Of Rail Equipment

Indian Railways has announced that it is rapidly emerging as a global exporter of railway equipment, including bogies, coaches, locomotives, and propulsion systems, under the government’s ‘Make in India, Make for the World’ initiative.According to an official statement, India’s railway products are now reaching over 16 international markets, reflecting the country’s growing capacity to design, develop, and deliver world-class rail solutions.Metro coaches have been exported to Australia and Canada; bogies to the United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, France, and Australia; propulsion systems t..

RailTel Awards Rs 163 Million Contract To RTNS Technology

RailTel Corporation of India Limited (RailTel), a Mini Ratna Public Sector Undertaking, has awarded a domestic work order worth Rs 163 million to RTNS Technology Private Limited.The contract, issued on 30 September 2025, involves the supply and installation of equipment and related services for one of RailTel’s key customers. The project underscores RailTel’s commitment to advancing technology and communication infrastructure through collaboration with domestic system integrators.RTNS Technology Private Limited, an ISO-certified system integrator, provides comprehensive solutions for perim..