Pune Discussions

[cncity]

PUNE: Railway passengers travelling on the Pune-Mumbai route have a reason to cheer since the railway administration has decided to augment coaches of second class reserved category to three inter-city trains - Sinhagad, Intercity and Indrayani express. Intercity express (12127/12128) will have two coaches, Sinhagad express (11009/11010) and Indrayani express (12525/12526) will have one additional coach each from March 2 and 3.

The Intercity express will now run with total 14 coaches, while Sinhagad and Indrayani will have 19 and 17 coaches respectively. Meanwhile, the administration has also decided to put one additional second class reserved coach to the Intercity express (12169/12170) that runs between Pune and Solapur.

There was a long pending demand of passengers and commuter groups for augmentation of coaches to the Pune-Mumbai trains.

"When the railways said they cannot run new trains between Pune and Mumbai, there was demand to increase the capacity of existing trains," said S N Nikam, a state government employee, who travels on this route. Satish Manohar, who works in a marketing firm, welcomed the move. "People prefer rail travel since it is cheaper and faster. The administration should give a serious thought to commencing adedicated rail track between Pune and Mumbai."

http://articles.timesofindia.indiati...hes-new-trains

[devendra1]

Hey cnCity. Nice that you are keeping updated the Pune Thread almost single handedly.

[cncity]

In what could revolutionise the public distribution system (PDS), the office of the Food Distribution Officer (FDO), Pune has embarked upon an ambitious project of digitalising details of the more than 7 lakh ration cards in the district along with details of the 1,000-odd fair price shops in the eight zones that fall under it. Pune district is the first in the state where this unique project is being implemented.

Also, in order to prevent blackmarketing of grains, the office would be sending group SMSes to citizens as soon as trucks loaded with grains leave for the shops from the godowns.

Vaishali Chavan, assistant FDO, said that digitalisation of details of 1,000 fair price shops in the eight zones of the district is nearing completion. “To weed out bogus ration cards, last year the FDO had undertaken a major drive asking fair price shops to submit details of ration cards they were catering to,” she said.

The details submitted included names, addresses and other details of the more than 7 lakh ration card holders in the city.

These details were fed into a specially designed software. The software would also display the quantity of grain each card holder is eligible.

“Although we weeded out around 2 lakh bogus cards, there still might be duplications in the list. Once all details are fed into the software, it would be able to check for duplications and those cards would be deleted,” she said.

The software would allow the FDO and citizens to keep track of distribution of grains. Chavan said the software would undergo a dry run. “Depending on the performance of the software, we will go in for enhancements in it,” she said.

The FDO is planning to send out group SMSes as soon as they are lifted from the godowns. “In the first phase, we have selected 20 people per zone who will receive the SMSes. These include social workers and members of the vigilance committee,” she said.

http://www.dnaindia.com/mumbai/repor...-cards_1659472

[cncity]

Founder of Compulink Systems, now a part of Goldyne with a turnover of Rs1,800 crore per annum, Vishwas Mahajan has an experience of 20 years in the information technology industry both at international and national level. Currently he is also serving as the president and lead volunteer of The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE), Pune Chapter. Mahajan speaks to DNA about TiE and the budding entrepreneurs in the city.

What is the basic objective of TiE? How successful it has been in its achievement?
The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE) fosters entrepreneurship globally through mentoring, networking and education. It is dedicated to the virtuous cycle of wealth creation and giving back to the community. TiE’s focus is on generating and nurturing our next generation entrepreneurs.

With 13,000 members, including over 2,500 charter members in 56 chapters across 13 countries, TiE hosts a wide range of programmes and events, including TiEcon, the largest professional and networking conference for entrepreneurs. TiE has been quite successful in its mission wherever it has been active.

What can Pune offer to budding entrepreneurs?
In India, Pune ranks high in entrepreneurial activity. Metro cities tend to have a better and larger ecosystem, but Pune is turning out to be the city for budding entrepreneurs, especially in the technology and services areas. The main input to these knowledge industries is talent and Pune has a lot to offer on those lines.

What problems are faced by entrepreneurs?
As the president of TiE Pune chapter, I discuss this question with various entrepreneurs. The key problem areas are: access to customers and finance. In addition, there are issues related to people, technology and others. Funding, however, is one area everyone expresses as a single most critical impediment to their success. Also, depending on the stage of the venture, entrepreneurs face different problems and sometimes they are not aware of the root causes.

What is the state of women entrepreneurs in the city?
Women entrepreneurship is certainly on the rise. I would not differentiate between entrepreneurs on the basis of their gender. The opportunities and challenges are the same for both. In fact, we have started a separate initiative for women entrepreneurs called ‘Stree Shakti’ and we also hold a separate conference for them. This is to encourage more women to pursue entrepreneurship.

What are the future initiatives of TiE Pune chapter?
TiE Pune chapter’s initiatives are categorised into NINE - Nurture, inspire, network and educate. We have several activities under each of these and entrepreneurs take full advantage of the same. The one initiative we are all excited about was launched a few weeks ago called ‘NURTURE’.

Under this initiative, TiE Pune aims to take selected entrepreneurs under its wings to provide high quality coaching and mentoring by its charter members who are successful entrepreneurs themselves.

This will be complimented by structured workshops on different topics and an effective programme management to help take the entrepreneur’s business to a different level. The response we have received after the launch of this initiative has been overwhelming.

http://www.dnaindia.com/mumbai/repor...-india_1659749

[cncity]

PUNE: Bryan Adams, Edward Maya, Markus Schulz, Flo Rida, Albin Myers, T-Pain, Susheela Raman - all have one thing in common, besides their connection to music. They have all performed in Pune in the last one year. On March 10, Grammy award-winning artiste and producer DJ David Guetta, too, is all set to make the city groove to his beats.

Some of the performers, like Adams, have said that "the crowd in Pune was more enthusiastic than that in Mumbai".

Says Nishikant Joshi, director of an event management organization, "Artistes have suddenly become open to the idea of performing in Pune. The Bryan Adams act ushered in a new era. International artistes have realized there's more to India than just Mumbai and Bangalore."

In recent times, the city missed out only on two major acts - one by the lords of metal, Metallica, and the other by the woman who is making the world go gaga over her, Lady Gaga.

The disappointment of Akon coming to Pune and not being able to perform has been washed away by the surge of other artistes who are making a beeline for the city.

Event organizer Vikas Mehta says, "Pune has grown. It is now on top of the list for international artistes and vying with other metros. Maybe the proximity to Mumbai also helps, as artistes who perform in Mumbai can easily make a detour and perform in Pune, too."

One reason that the city has suddenly become a hotspot for international artistes could be that it has a thriving youth culture. Youngsters from across the country, as well as from abroad, come to study in Pune.

This is the segment that event organisers are tapping into.

Tushar Kamat, head, events division of a township in Pune that brought Bryan Adams last year and is bringing in David Guetta in a few days' time, says, "These artistes, like David Guetta, have a mass following among the youth. This is the kind of music that is played in pubs and lounges. When such an artiste is brought to the city, it's a dream-come-true for the fans. In fact, the Guetta show was sold-out eight days ago."

He goes on to add, "The Adams show had as many as 22,500 people. This sent out a very positive signal to the international market. In fact, we are looking at bringing in Enrique and Shakira some time soon." So, even as event organizers bring in names like the band Meshuggah, or Flo Rida or even Susheela Raman - not exactly household names - they know that the gamble will pay off.

Some organizers believe that one of the reasons these shows are taking place could be that people have more spending power today than say, five years ago. Tickets to any of these events range between Rs 1,000-Rs 10,000. Despite this, almost all the shows are jam-packed. "For a good show people are no longer afraid to dig deep into their pockets," says Joshi.

Artistes, too, find Pune a tad different. And, therein lies the charm. Other metros, such as Mumbai and Bangalore, have been hosting such shows for quite some time. So, maybe the novelty has worn off. For Pune, these kind of shows are something new. Their enthusiasm translates into sold-out shows and makes the event special for the artiste, too, feels Joshi.

Earlier, organizing a show on such a huge scale was considered near impossible. But, now with a cooperative police and administration and budding entrepreneurs, such shows are a reality.

Says Kamat, "The civic authortities have been very supportive. They do everything they can to issue licences and permits. These shows help the tourism industry too. For example, people are coming from Mumbai for the Guetta show. Naturally that will give a boost to the service industry."

And, last but not the least, the big advantage the city now has, is the venue. With so many new, bigger and better venues that have come up in recent times, these concerts can be organised on a large scale without the fear of overcrowding.

Palash Barman, who attended the Bryan Adams show, says, "The venue added to the event. There was ample parking space as well as well-planned enclosures. It was a huge crowd and could have become chaotic, but the organizers managed the show well."

So, Pune music lovers have every reason to expect the performer of their dreams in their city.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/c...w/12204598.cms

[cncity]

Pune: In a first of sorts, a 20-member all civilian team of mountaineers has left the city to scale Mount Everest, the world's highest summit, embarking on an ambitious 70-day expedition.

The "Pune Everest 2012 expedition" left here for Delhi on Friday to be flagged off by President Pratibha Patil on March 19.



Explaning the unique features of the expedition---- sponsored with contributions from 23,000 donors from all walks of life ---- Umesh Zirpe said, "this is the fifth civilian expedition to mount Everest attempted from India. But for the first time such an expedition is having all its members from the same city with common people financing the endeavour. This is also the largest all civilian expedition to the dream peak."

The 47-year-old Zirpe, a tax consultant by profession, who has an experience of about 14 previous expeditions in the Himalayas has been training the team members for the last two years to enhance the physical and mental stamina of the mountaineers, some of whom have even left their jobs to realise their ambition.

Overwhelmed by the public response to the Rs 3 crore expedition, Zirpe told PTI before the team's departure that only ten per cent of the total money had come from the corporate sector while 90 per cent of funding was by way of small contributions from all over Maharashtra, an encouraging factor for civilian expeditions.

After the handing over of the tri-colour by the president in Delhi, the team will proceed to Kathmandu and also install a statue of Maratha warrior king Shivaji at the Everest base camp site.

The actual climb of the all civilian expedition will start around April 12 after performing a pooja at the Everest base camp with the Sherpas which is a traditional ritual for all mountaineers scaling the summit.

For the purpose of acclimatisation, the team will first undertake the climb of base camps one, two and three at 19,000 sq ft, 21,000 sq.ft and 23,000 sq.ft respectively.

"The final climb will begin between May 12 and 15 and we hope to unfurl the national flag on the Everest by May 25-28," Zirpe said striking a confident note.

In a gesture to boost their spirit, the expediton members of "Giripremi" (Mountain lovers) will also be carrying a flag bearing signatures of about 300 mountaineers from Maharashtra, supporting the venture.

The team has also envisaged a social project in the vicinity of the Everest base camp, involving distribution of solar lanterns to villagers in Nepal, residing at the foothills in Solukhumbu district.

http://zeenews.india.com/news/eco-ne...on_764333.html

[cncity]

The fire brigade’s latest acquisition, the Volvo Branto Skylift, cannot be used till the regional transport officer (RTO) registers the vehicle.

The vehilce was tested near Hotel Westin in Koregaon Park on February 27, can be raised to 70 metres, the level of the 22nd floor. This is expected to prove a great help in carrying out rescue operations in high-rise buildings.

The RTO for Pune division, Arun Yeola said, “The fire department officials had approached us with some papers, but the documents were incomplete. We have asked them to get more papers like road worthiness certificate and sales letter, as the vehicle has been imported. Without these papers we cannot register the vehicle.”

Prashant Ranpise, the chief fire officer of PMC said, “We have asked the team to get all the papers. Unless the registration is done, we cannot use the vehicle.”

The vehicle was brought to Pune on February 24 and till date the paper work is incomplete. The RTO said, “Once the papers are submitted we can complete the registration process within three to four days.”

http://www.dnaindia.com/mumbai/repor...r-work_1667545

The fire brigade has obtained a fleet of six new Royal Enfield Bullet bikes from Aska Equipment at a cost of Rs42 lakh. This will help save water and pass faster through narrow city lanes.

Prashant Ranpise, chief fire officer of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) said, “The bikes that we have bought have reached our Bhawani Peth central office. We are waiting for completion of all paper work and registration. The bikes have been specially procured to reach congested places where big vehicles would take time.”

To conserve water, the motorcycle-mounted configuration uses two backpack type fire extinguishers. These have capacity of 10 litres. A water mist-based firefighting system is being used in the spray of the tanks. This utilises a very fine water spray to extinguish the fire.

Ranpise said, “The water mist, when used in firefighting systems, creates a blanket, making the atmospherearound the fire inert. This results in effective and rapid fire extinguishing. The compressed air foam used along with water mist enhances the fire extinguishing power.”

The registration of these vehicles at the regional transport office would be done by Aska Equipment and the bikes will be available for use soon, added the fire officer.

http://www.dnaindia.com/mumbai/repor...raffic_1667543

[adam_india]

lol

[adam_india]

[adam_india]

City to get four new public hospitals

Pune: The city will have four new public hospitals developed on amenity spaces in near future.The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has identified four sites where it plans to develop the hospitals on public private partnership (PPP) basis.
We are in the process of inviting expression of interest to build four hospitals in amenity spaces.The sites havebeen identified.Thehospitals will be built on public private partnership basis, said Kishore Pakhare,acting assistant medical officer of health.
Amenity spaces are reserved plots in the Development Plan meant for hospitals,dispensary and maternity homes.The identified sites are located in Bopodi,Nagpur Chawl,Warje and Hadapsar, Pakharesaid.
The civic body plans to construct the hospitals on PPP basis.That means a private body,ready to run the hospitals as per the rate card fixed by the civic body,will be given the charges.Services offered at these hospitals will be affordable to the public.The civic body will sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the private body before handling over the reinstooperatethese hospitals, Pakhare said.

source: TOI

[adam_india]

Pune district census:
From 29.9 per cent in 2001, the percentage of two-wheelers increased to 48.8 in 2011while bicycle users decreased to 35.4 per cent from 45.7 per cent.

“This trend has been observed in almost all districts. Pune in particular saw a marked increase in two-wheeler usage,’’ said officials at the regional census office.

Data covering houses, condition of houses and tenure status, water supply, sanitation, amenities and assets for national and state levels were released by the Registrar General and Census Commissioner.

The district also recorded a marked increase in cars and SUVs with 13.2 per cent being recorded this time as against 6.5 per cent in 2001.

“Pune district is among the highest in land line and mobile users with 86.3 per cent users, which is on par with Mumbai and Thane,’’ said the official. This is an increase of 65.4 per cent from just 20.9 per cent in 2001.

In the assets section, the district recorded the highest TV users in the state recording 74.9 per cent population having televisions as against 63.3 per cent in 2001. The census also took details on use of transistor radio and it was found to have decreased to 32.5 per cent from 54.7 per cent using transistor radios.

Pune district has 92.7 per cent population having electricity for lighting their homes while only 6.5 per cent use kerosene lamps. “It was 87.8 per cent in 2001 and it has only improved and we can say that the district definitely has improved on this front,’’ said the official. Kerosene lamp usage in 2001 was 11.4 per cent and has reduced with more people being given electricity.

On the water front, 80.6 per cent of the population gets tap water against 75.2 per cent 10 years ago. Of the people who get tap water, almost 91.9 per cent get treated water while 8.1 per cent get non-treated water. The district has yet to improve on the toilet block front, with 64.6 per cent population having toilet facilities in their houses and 26.2 per cent resort to defecation in the open. “But there is a marked improvement from 53.6 per cent in 2001,’’ said the official.

The figures also said that about 23.6 per cent of the population uses computer/laptops.

http://www.indianexpress.com/news/ce...-13.2/924378/0

[adam_india]

Report on formation of PMRDA to come in 3 months: Chavan

Mumbai, Apr 10 (PTI) Maharashtra chief minister Prithviraj Chavan today said that a study group has been appointed towards the formation of the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA). While replying to a calling attention motion raised by MLC Ulhas Pawar in the Legislative Council here today, Chavan said that the study group would submit its report towards the formation of PMRDA within three months. The PMRDA would be on the lines of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), the chief minister said adding that besides Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad, the authority would include areas under the neighbouring municipal councils of Lonavala and Talegaon-Dabhade. "After the PMRDA comes into existence, it will cover an area of 2,943 sq km and will have a population of 58,87,929," Chavan said. He also said that following the formation of the development authority, civic problems like that of solid waste, water supply and others would be resolved in a speedy manner.

http://ibnlive.in.com/generalnewsfee...an/984697.html

[adam_india]

Higher and Technical Education minister Rajesh Tope while Higher and Technical Education minister Rajesh Tope while replying to demands of his department said the government has decided to set up state skilled development council which will be headed by the chief minister. Such councils will be set up at district level as well. He said the Indian Institute of Information Technology would come up in Pune in which Centre will invest Rs 100 crore while state will put Rs 40 crore. Similarly, National Law Schools will be set up in Aurangabad, Mumbai and Nagpur. This year, 14 hostels exclusively for girls will come up In 12 districts. A provision of Rs 70 crore would be made which will benefit 2,250 girls. Besides, one hostel in each district of the state will be set up for students belonging to economically backward classes.

http://ibnlive.in.com/generalnewsfee...st/984808.html

[cncity]

Arvind Jain
Managing Direstor, Pride Group
The Pride Group was the first to commercially develop Senapati Bapat Road, back in 1998 when the road only had Sahara Hospital and Symbiosis College of Arts and Commerce, says Arvind Jain, managing director of the Pride Group.

He adds, “We came up with the Corporate Plaza in 1998, which was the first commercial building, followed by Pride Silicon Plaza—the first IT park on Senapati Bapat Road. Unlike places like Jungli Maharaj Road or FC Road, the area had enormous potential and since the space was large, we could incorporate many facilities in our projects, the foremost being a spacious parking area.” The best features of Senapati Bapat Road, according to Jain, are its central location, easy accessibility and abundance of parking space.

“The area isn’t congested either, as is the case with areas like Camp, JM Road, FC Road, or Shivajinagar. The flow of traffic is always smooth, allowing vehicles to move about freely,” he adds.
Being the first establishment to launch an IT park on Senapati Bapat Road, Jain also says that the property’s location is such that a tech firm can draw an employee from any part of town to it.

“Besides, it also has a smooth link to Mumbai and Hinjewadi,” he continues. It is no wonder then, that with so many plus points, the group has developed 10 projects on Senapati Bapat Road. “We’re very happy we spearheaded the commercial development of the area. Interestingly, our Pride Silicon Plaza was also the first commercial building in Pune to have
terrace parking for two wheelers,” he concludes.

Vidya Yeravdekar
Principal Director, Symbiosis Group
For Puneites, Senapati Bapat Road is synonymous with the Symbiosis College of Arts & Commerce. Vidya Yeravdekar, principal director of the group, recollects the days when the area would be quite desolate. “I remember going to the college as a kid when I was a child, and we would feel scared after 7-7.30 pm because the area would be quite deserted. When my father bought two acres of land for the college there in 1971, his purchase was questioned by many people, who couldn’t understand why he’d bought land in such a ‘remote’ area. Look how the landscape has changed now,” says Yeravdekar. She adds that for her, Senapati Bapat Road represents the growth of Pune.

“The area is now flooded with high-rise buildings.You have the Marriott Hotel and Convention Centre, the ICC Trade Tower, an Audi showroom, reputed hospitals and offices of IT companies, besides the college. It really is a broadway that gives an outsider an overview of what Pune is all about,” says she. Education, commerce, hospitality, hospitals and luxury cars—what could be better than all these in the same space?

DS Kulkarni
Founder, Chairman and Managing Director, DSK Developers
DS Kulkarni, who helms one of the city’s premier real estate firms, loved the area to such an extent, that he built he dream house there. “I am a very religious person, and I wanted to be close to Chatuhshrungi Mata, whose temple is located there,” says Kulkarni. On the business front, Kulkarni feels that the property is conducive to offices and not retail outlets. “Most retail outlets there shut shop, but the area is ideal for office space. Senapati Bapat Road has been blessed by Chatuhshrungi Mata and goddess Laxmi, and this is very evident when you see the ICC Trade Tower, the Marriott hotel and the Audi showrooms,” he says, adding that the road connects well to Mumbai, Hinjewadi and the airport.

Kulkarni also likens Senapati Bapat Road to roads in Singapore because of its swanky look. “There is a very crisp, corporate edge and feel to the look of the road post its development. It is really on par with those we see abroad. I’m sure the area is going to develop further,” he concludes.

Gautam Pashankar
Chairman, Pashankar Group
According to Gautam Pashankar, chairman of the Pashankar Group, which has registered its presence across sectors, from automobile, constructions, travel and tourism to media, Senapati Bapat Road is one of the leading commercial hubs of the city.

“There was a time when Senapati Bapat Road was only known for the Chatuhshrungi fair in the city. But in a span of just seven to eight years, the area has become the commercial nucleus of the city,” says Gautam Pashankar. From the prestigious Symbiosis International University to Maharashtra’s first Shantanurao Kirloskar International Convention Center, this road also boasts of the presence of some leading IT companies like Siemens, SunGard, Persistent Systems and Cognizant Technology Solutions among others.

What comes as the icing on the cake is the recently launched Pune Marriott Hotel & Convention Centre, which makes this place the most sought-after destination. “Whether it is an official meeting or taking foreign delegates out for lunch and dinner, this place serves all purposes,” says Gautam, adding that restaurants like Paasha and Mainland China in the area give folks an opportunity to binge on some exciting delicacies.

Gautam also opines that that approach-wise, this road is more convenient, as it is centrally located, which makes it easily accessible from any corner of the city. From automobile showrooms to apparel stores, and banks to offices of realty firms, this place is certainly offers a lot to Punekars.

Ishwarchand Goyal
Chairman, Pristine Group
Ishwarchand Goyal, Chairman, Pristine Group has been a devotee of Goddess Chaturshrungi for over 40 years. He firmly believes that it is the might and blessings of the goddess that has put Senapati Bapat Road on the world map and made it what it is today.

He also credits the Mahratta Chamber Of Commerce Industries & Agriculture (MCCIA) for playing a major role in the development of the high street. “MCCIA has encouraged many multinationals to establish their offices in the ICC trade tower and ICC Tech Park.

The stunning ICC towers and Marriot hotel have added to the aura of the street,” says Goyal. He predicts that the coming years will see more prosperity on this street with new establishments. However, he feels that the issue of growing traffic must be addressed on time and thinks that a flyover will help the issue of traffic.

http://www.dnaindia.com/pune/report_...al-hub_1675318

[adam_india]

Illegal construction: Civic officials to be held guilty

State amends BPMC Act; Rs 25,000 fine or a month’s jail for inaction

Finally, there’s a ray of hope for Puneites who helplessly saw unauthorised and illegal construction flourish in their neighbourhood for the last two decades. Recently, the state government amended the Bombay Provincial Municipal Corporations (BPMC), Act, 1949 which will now not only ensure action against errant builders but also hold civic officers responsible if they fail in their duty.

According to the new rules of the Act, which governs the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), civic officials allowing unauthorised constructions despite complaints will face a fine of Rs 25,000 or imprisonment for a month.

The state government order issued, through its gazette, states that ward officers will be responsible for their area while city engineers and assistant city engineers will be held responsible for all illegal constructions within the city limits.

Anup Kumar Yadava, additional municipal commissioner (special), “The new provisions will allow us to prosecute officers who are found guilty of not taking action against unauthorised or

illegal constructions without valid reasons. The principal secretary has asked us to list each ward officer as ‘designated officer’ under Section 260 of the Act.”

RTI activist Vijay Kumbhar, who has fought various legal battles against illegal construction for the last 12 years, said, “This will keep a tab on erring officials who delay action and play the blame game instead.”

Bhaskar Jadhav, Minister of State for Urban Development, has recently said in the Assembly that the President has also given her assent to modify the Act.

http://www.punemirror.in/article/2/2...ld-guilty.html

[karkal]

HSBC axes 200 employees from Hyderabad offices, 350 in Pune

HYDERABAD: Over the last two days, HSBC India has undertaken a massive layoff exercise showing the door to as many as 200 employees ranging from assistant manager to vice presidents from its centres in Hyderabad alone.

The axe has fallen on over 350 employees at HSBC's Pune centres. It is estimated that a total of 750 employees have been asked to leave across locations and designations. So from assistant managers to vice presidents have been summoned to the meeting room in the last two days, asked to choose between termination or resignation, pack their bags and leave. Every couple of hours, employees were escorted out of the building by guards after quick meetings with the human resource department.

No time was given to bid goodbyes to friends and colleagues. They were later packed off in cabs after their access cards were taken. A manager who was asked to leave said, "I was asked to log off from my computer and leave in ten minutes. Even those who have done well were asked to leave."

An "adequate" compensation (one month's salary for each year spent in the company plus three months salary) has been part of the layoff deal. While the new entrants into the international bank are crying hoarse, the senior ones are taking solace in the cash with some having made Rs 8-15 lakh.

Sources said that most lower level employees heaved a sigh of relief as they were spared while many from the middle and high level management were given the boot. However, the last two days saw the bank taking precautionary measures including closing its balconies to possibly avert any aggressive reactions to the layoff.

Vijay Kumar (name changed), a manager in HSBC India, was enjoying his morning coffee in the cafeteria when within minutes he saw himself signing his resignation letter stating that he was leaving the organisation on personal grounds. Employees have been sacked from the two HSBC global service centres and its invest direct and commercial banking and software development departments in Hyderabad.

Even the bank's corporate communications team was trimmed from five employees to just one. The company refused to divulge numbers.

Sources said that restructuring of the company was in the offing since mid-2011 and that employees have been on tenterhooks ever since. Videos had been posted on the intranet to create awareness that some could lose their jobs soon.

"Project Nemo, a de-layering exercise was initiated at a global level to remove people across levels because of which assistant managers, managers, vice-presidents and even presidents who had put in years of loyal service were asked to leave. Around 10% of staff has been laid off," claimed a source.

Sources said that the project was started to improve organizational efficiency and cost cutting. Further, a target saving of $1 billion was sought and the corporation was aiming at spending between 48 cents and 52 cents against the current 61 cents for earning a dollar.

Rajesh Joshi, HSBC spokesperson, declined to comment on the sackings but said that India is a key market and that HSBC would continue to invest here.

"The HSBC Group is going through a global programme that is aimed at improving efficiency, increasing our revenue capability and ensuring our long-term, sustainable growth. HSBC India, as part of the group, will also be implementing this global programme.

"We are not going to comment on rumours and speculation about our people," he said, adding if the staff are impacted, HSBC would make every effort to support them through redeployment, counselling, in-placement and out-placement services.

[adam_india]

Former chairperson of city-based Thermax Limited, Anu Aga, recommended for nomination as member of Rajya Sabha on Thursday confirmed via e-mail that she has accepted the offer.

Aga had taken over as chairperson of Thermax Limited, a Rs 3,246-crore energy and environment engineering company after the sudden demise of her husband Rohinton Aga. She retired in 2004 and took to social work, for which she was awarded Padma Shri in 2010. She is currently chairperson of Teach For India and continues to be on the Board of Directors of Themax.

IE

[adam_india]

A commuter at the busy Goodluck Chowk is taken aback when a stranger walks up to him and in fluent English praises him for obeying traffic rules. The affable stranger then proceeds to hand over a music CD as a gesture of appreciation to the rule-conscious citizen.

The man who has been carrying out this unique initiative since April 23 at various traffic signals in the city is Kedar Bhagwat, a music composer, born and brought up in Pune, who now resides in Mumbai.

After taking permission from the city traffic department, Bhagwat has been standing at various chowks for an hour every day, praising those who don’t jump red lights and stick to zebra crossings.

On the first day, it was MES College Chowk, followed by Nal Stop, Goodluck Chowk and Balgandharva Chowk. On Friday, the last day of the initiative, he will plant himself at S P College Chowk.

IE

[adam_india]

PMC’s decisions to be available online soon

Pune: Citizens will soon have access to the Pune Municipal Corporation’s (PMC) general body and standing committee meetings’ minutes and decisions on the latter’s website.

The office of municipal secretary and statistical department is working on a project to make the details available online.

The civic body presently only uploads the agendas of general body and standing committee meetings on its official website- www.punecorporation.org.

Replying to an application by civic activist Vihar Durve under the Right to Information Act, 2005, the office of municipal secretary stated that the final minutes of the general body and standing committee meetings will be uploaded once the technical issues are resolved.

Municipal secretary Sunil Parkhi told DNA, “We would successfully start uploading the minutes within one month.”

Many facilities like online bill payment of tax and contact numbers of PMC officers are available on the website.

http://daily.bhaskar.com/article/MAH...n-3180506.html

[cncity]

The Indian Institute of Architects (IIAs) is an important body of architects from all over the country. In an interview with TOI, its president Prafulla Karkhanis talks about the major architectural changes in Nashik and how the salient features of the city, like equidistance from major centres, good climate and abundant water, will help its growth. Excerpts:

What architectural changes have taken place in Nashik in the last two-three decades?
Industrial development in Nashik started in the 1960s. Initially, the Nashik Industrial Co-operative Estate (NICE) was set up and thereafter, the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) set up industrial estates in Satpur and later in Ambad. As a result, the number of technocrats and workers increased and that led to increase in the demand for houses. Then, housing schemes of the Cidco (City and Industrial Development Corporation) of Maharashtra and the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (Mhada) came to the city. The industrial development of the city started speeding up after Mumbai and Pune cities reached saturation levels. Thereafter, additional industrial area of the MIDC was set up in Sinnar near Nashik. Industrial development led to population rise in the city. Housing facilities were there, but shops were too far away and were set up on the roads, which led to encroachment. Earlier, growth of the buildings was limited to two-three floors and that led to horizontal development of the city.

But, infrastructure was not developed in the city in proportion to the population increase. The quality of roads was also not good. The width of internal roads in residential areas in the city was kept very less and there was no foresight in their construction. Hence, the width of roads in the old parts of the city is very less and that may create a big issue in case of a fire. Also, importance was not given to mass transportation. Increase in earnings also led to a rise in the number of vehicles, causing traffic problems. The central government's schemes like the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNURM) were not implemented properly in the city. Industrial associations and architects in the city had given suggestions to the Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC), but they were not implemented. NMC's planning department did not pay attention towards this.

What is the present architectural scenario in Nashik?

As the population of the city increased, demand for educational institutions also increased and these were set up. The number of schools and colleges increased and students from other cities started coming here for studies. Better climate, adequate water and proximity to both Mumbai and Pune are the major advantages of Nashik. People prefer Nashik as it is suits their pockets as compared to Mumbai, Thane and Pune. But, we still lack in infrastructure. The road from Nashik to Pune is still not properly developed. The government had taken initiatives to start air services from Nashik, but it did not receive a good response and was closed down. Hence, more industries could not come to Nashik. The city is loosing the greenery it had in the past. There are laws regarding tree plantation while constructing buildings, but they are not being implemented. Green development could not take place due to lack of will power among people and the administration. Today, we have enough water in the city, but it is being wasted and not used properly. Misuse of water at large is a fact even though people know its importance. There are several cities and villages which do not even get enough water. There are technologies for filtering grey water. The filtered grey water can be used for industry and agriculture, but efforts are not being taken by the administration in Nashik city. In Singapore, Europe and Japan, grey water is filtered to the extent that it can be used for drinking purposes too.

What are the challenges architects are facing?

Timely approval is not given to building plans by the authorities, whether it is the town planning department of the municipal corporation or the MIDC. Our professionals have to waste too much time in this connection and hence they do not get enough time to concentrate on their projects or work. There is a single-window system, but it is still on paper. Building or construction plans are made by the architects only and there are also laws in this connection, but these laws are being violated by some developers.

What is your association doing to improve architecture?

We continuously conduct workshops and seminars for architects on various important subjects and it is a continuous educational process. Sometimes, we conduct three-four day workshops on one topic only. Architects are informed about what is happening in other parts of the country and in foreign countries, which has a good impact on younger architects.

The government has issued a resolution that the front portion of houses should be aesthetic and no articles be displayed in front of homes that will affect their aesthetic beauty. What is your reaction?

The same type of houses being constructed is not expected as it becomes monotonous. The front portion of the houses should not look bad as it adversely affects the minds of passers-by. To avoid this, the state had issued this government resolution (GR) that the front portion of all houses and buildings should be aesthetic and no articles be displayed that will affect the look.

How does construction materials used or mechanization of construction help architects? Are some innovations possible there?

Changes in climate are seen in different parts of the country from Kashmir to Kanyakumari. Hence, materials and designs that suit the climate as per the place are used while constructing buildings. The same kind of material is not sustainable everywhere. Nashik starts cooling down from 5pm onwards in the evening. Hence, professionals consider sustainable materials and design while constructing the buildings. Today, greed has led to excessive use of some materials. In Nashik, sand is brought from 200km away from places like Dhule, Nandurbar and Jalgaon. Nobody thinks about resources of basic materials being drained. Sand, cement and steel should not go waste as this increases the construction cost. Some developers have started using artificial sand made from stones. In short, excessive use of materials should be avoided.

The state government is planning to introduce a housing regulator. Will it help improve the situation or bring transparency in the sector?

Around 80-90% of houses or flats are built within a framework of laws and cases of cheating customers take place in the other 10-20%. Sometimes, one flat is sold to two persons. Hence, the new housing regulator will definitely help improve the situation will avoid such cases. It will create transparency in the sector and will be very helpful for the masses.

Is the increased use of glass in the upcoming commercial projects in the city a threat to environment?

The use of glass is definitely beneficial if it is used in proper manner and in proper directions. Designer glasses used in building projects are expensive. Hence, most of the developers do not use designer glass, it is not used in around 90% of the projects in the city. Besides, when it is used, it has to be used in the proper directions. Glass used in the north side of the building percolates abundant light and helps save electricity. Its use also makes the building dust-free and noise-free.

What growth of Nashik do you see in the next few years?

The development of Mumbai and Pune cities has already crossed saturation level. Equidistance from Mumbai-Pune, good climate and abundant water are the salient features of Nashik. An air service and mass transportation will definitely be a reality in the next few years. Night halts of flights from Mumbai and Ahmedabad will also happen in Nashik and hotels required for the purpose of tourists have started coming up in Nashik. Areas within a radius of 40km from the heart of the city will be developed in the next few years. In short, Nashik has vast scope for development.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/c...w/12929514.cms