It was a magnificent view from more than 100 metres above the sea level at the Bandra Worli Sea Link (BWSL).
But even at this breathtaking location, I couldn’t help thinking about the cost and time overruns this one-of-its-kind project has undergone so many times ever since it started. The delay hurts more when you realise that some of the best technological innovations have been employed for this project giving it many firsts. The delay, caused primarily due to clearances (actually lack of them), has almost negated the advantages earned through technology. This obviously highlights the enormous miscalculations right at the conceptualisation and planning stages by those in power. It is thus critical that the government puts in place a robust mechanism for key infrastructure projects.
In the meanwhile, Construction Week has reliably learnt that the BWSL project will be opened in two phases. The first phase – south bound – is likely to be ready by May 2009 and will double up as a two-way traffic system with two lanes each for both sides. The second phase – north bound – will take (at least) another six months.
The need for mega projects like BWSL also highlights the infrastructural saturation reached by our existing metros and other big cities. While improving the existing infrastructure in these over-crowded urban centres, it is important that creation of new townships is encouraged and supported. We believe development of SEZs and integrated townships is the right step in this direction. We wholeheartedly support CII’s suggestion that development of integrated townships should be accorded infrastructure status. Integrated township is a concept where infrastructure meets real estate. Building more such townships will not only ease pressure off the existing urban magnets but will also open up new opportunities. This is exactly why we have written about such townships right from our first issue. Do tell us what you think.
I also wanted to inform you that with this month, Construction Week will be going monthly. The decision has been taken in the light of the current market scenario. We believe this decision to change the periodicity of the magazine from fortnightly to monthly will allow us to serve the industry in a better way.
We are sure that the change will not hamper our communication as we are planning to reach out to our readers through a regular e-newsletter as well. Being a mini-version of the printed magazine, the e-newsletter will be a comprehensive package of information and insight. Combined with the regular e-newsletter, the monthly periodicity forms a robust business model in the present situation.
We will certainly reconsider the periodicity of the printed magazine whenever we receive strong and positive indications
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