The capital of the Madhya Pradesh state in central India, Bhopal, is a metropolis that skillfully combines the past with the present. Bhopal, which is well-known for its lakes, architectural history, and dynamic culture, has also emerged as a center for opulent living. This article will examine the top 10 posh areas in Bhopal where the affluent may enjoy the finest of urban living without sacrificing tranquility and exclusivity.
1. Arera Colony, Bhopal
One of Bhopal’s most popular and well-established residential neighborhoods is Arera Colony. This region has a wide range of opulent housing alternatives, including opulent bungalows, roomy apartments, and luxurious penthouses. The area is well known for its well-designed infrastructure, broad roads, and an abundance of natural spaces, which provide a tranquil and beautiful atmosphere for its residents. Families and working professionals favor Arera Colony because of its superior access to the city’s key areas. A high-quality lifestyle is further ensured by inhabitants’ quick access to famous educational institutions, top-notch healthcare facilities, easy connectivity upscale shopping areas, and a variety of recreational opportunities.
Top gated communities in Arera Colony
- Manas Apartment
- Lala Lajpat Rai Society
- Nirupam Residency
- Parpati Apartment
- Mirchandani Shalimar Regency
Average price per square foot: ₹7,485
2. Shyamla Hills, Bhopal
Shyamla Hills is unquestionably one of the most upscale neighborhoods in Bhopal. It is nestled among the lush vegetation and has a beautiful view of the Upper Lake. The setting provides breathtaking views of the city and the calm environs, making it the perfect place for people looking for peace and exclusivity. The majority of the properties in the neighborhood are opulent villas and flats with cutting-edge facilities and modern construction. Also, Shyamla Hills has good access to Bhopal’s city center, making it simple to obtain basic services, amusement alternatives, and top-notch medical facilities. The presence of renowned educational institutions and recreational facilities enhances the allure of this exclusive residential area, drawing the elite of the city.
Top gated communities in Shyamla Hills
- Ansals Lake View Enclave
- Golden City
Average price per square foot: ₹6500
3. Ayodhya Bypass Road, Bhopal
Ayodhya Bypass Road is quickly developing into a popular location for upscale living in Bhopal. Residents may easily commute into and out of the city because of its advantageous location close to the bypass, which guarantees easy connectivity to important highways. Ayodhya Bypass Road is a desirable alternative for wealthy families and individuals looking for an elite living experience since it provides a calm and peaceful atmosphere away from the busy city core. Also, the area is home to top-notch educational institutions, illustrious medical facilities, and cutting-edge commercial centers, guaranteeing that locals have access to all necessary services and conveniences.
Top gated communities in Ayodhya Bypass Road
- Agrawal Sagar Lakeview Homes
- Raj Minal Residency
- Agrawal sagar landmark
Average price per square foot: ₹6,530
4. Trilanga, Bhopal
A growing upmarket neighborhood in Bhopal, Trilanga has attracted the interest of those looking to purchase luxury real estate. Trilanga has a well-designed infrastructure, spacious roads, and stunning scenery, which together make for a cozy and pleasant place to live. The community’s advantageous location guarantees easy access to main thoroughfares and public transportation, enabling residents to quickly and easily access necessary services and conveniences. Trilanga is a popular choice for wealthy individuals looking for a modern lifestyle due to the presence of renowned educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and recreational facilities.
Top gated communities in Trilanga
- Paras Majestic
- Fortune Pride Extension
- Green City Apartments
Average price per square foot: ₹6,300
5. Kolar Road, Bhopal
Kolar Road has undergone amazing growth in recent years and has become one of the posh areas in Bhopal to live in. Kolar Road draws wealthy investors and people seeking a sophisticated lifestyle due to its prime location and easy access to important monuments. The area has a modern infrastructure, wide roadways, and a well-thought-out layout, giving people a convenient and comfortable way of life. To further ensure that people have access to top-notch urban living, Kolar Road is home to a profusion of shopping malls, entertainment venues, fine dining restaurants, and recreational areas.
Top gated communities in Kolar Road
- Fame Kingdom Palace
- Samriddhi Apartment
- Ujjawala Aamra Valley
- Agrawal Sagar Premium Towers
- Agrawal Sagar Green Hills
Average price per square foot: ₹5,418
Notable mentions of other affluant parts of the city
6. Lalghati, Bhopal
A prominent neighborhood in Bhopal called Lalghati is well-known for its opulent homes and an ideal location close to the airport. Lalghati is an excellent option for regular travelers and business elites due to its advantageous location, which makes access to transportation and connectivity simple. As a result, locals have access to all necessary services and comforts. The region is home to prestigious educational institutions, top-notch healthcare facilities, and affluent shopping centers. Additionally, Lalghati is a popular resort for individuals looking for a mix of luxury and peace due to its serene mood and stunning surroundings.
Top gated communities in Lalghati
- Shri Parasnath Sheetal Tower
- Globus Civitech city
- Globus Green Acres Phase II
- Sarah Homes 24 Karat
- Sahaj Sangam Apartment
Average price per square foot: ₹6,194
7. E-8 Extension, Bhopal
Gulmohar Colony, also known as E-8 Extension, is an affluent neighborhood renowned for its opulent homes and elite atmosphere. The majority of the homes in the region are large detached homes, opulent bungalows, and upscale condominiums with first-rate amenities. E-8 Extension is distinguished by well-kept green areas, groomed parks, and a calm ambiance, offering people a tranquil and restful way of life. Strategically located, the area provides easy access to key urban areas, commercial hubs, and business centers. Its ease of access, together with the presence of prestigious educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and upscale shopping centers, makes E-8 Extension an appealing option for lovers of luxury living.
Top gated communities in E-8 Extension
- AG8 Aakriti Flamingo 3
- Sage Heritage
- The Address
- Sagar Prime
- Sagar Elite
Average price per square foot: ₹5,200
8. Maharana Pratap Nagar (MP Nagar), Bhopal
Maharana Pratap Nagar, sometimes referred to as MP Nagar, is one of Bhopal’s most important residential and business areas. The neighborhood is home to a variety of expensive condos, lavish penthouses, and luxury apartments, all of which are catered to wealthy city dwellers. A quick and comfortable living is guaranteed for its residents thanks to MP Nagar’s well-developed infrastructure, wide roadways, and contemporary amenities. The area is home to upmarket eateries, fine dining establishments, and luxury retail businesses, providing a wide range of entertainment and shopping alternatives. High-net-worth individuals and business elites will find it to be the ideal choice due to its prime location in the city’s core, which offers quick access to government buildings, business hubs, and other significant landmarks.
Top gated communities in Maharana Pratap Nagar (MP Nagar)
- Amrit Homes
- Mahadev Apartment
Average price per square foot: ₹5,500
Notable mentions of other affluant parts of the city
9. Katara Hills, Bhopal
The wealthy neighborhood of Katara Hills is well-known for its scenic surroundings and elegant homes. Residents can enjoy a blend of modern life and peacefulness in the region, which is primarily made up of luxurious apartments and standalone homes. Residents of Katara Hills enjoy a tranquil setting with lots of greenery, which helps to create a pleasant and beautiful ambiance. The area is well-connected to the city’s fundamentals, making it simple to reach hospitals, clinics, and retail establishments. Anyone looking for a luxurious living environment that doesn’t sacrifice tranquility and stunning natural surroundings will be drawn to Katara Hills.
Top gated communities in Katara Hills
Gauri Shankar Kaushal Awasiya Parisar
RRMLS homes
Global Park City
Fortune Soumya Atlantis
Park City
Average price per square foot: ₹4,057
10. Kasturba Nagar, Bhopal
One of the posh areas in Bhopal, Kasturba Nagar is renowned for its illustrious past and lavish homes. The neighborhood mostly includes opulent bungalows, upscale apartments, and historic homes that pay homage to the city’s rich architectural history. Kasturba Nagar’s residents enjoy a quiet and tranquil living environment thanks to the area’s luxuriant flora, tree-lined streets, and landscaped parks. The region’s strategic location makes it simple to reach important landmarks, commercial hubs, and entertainment places. Kasturba Nagar is a desirable option for affluent people since its residents enjoy a mix of luxurious living with a hint of historical charm.
Top gated communities in Kasturba Nagar
- Ranthambhore Complex
- Amrit Homes
- Paras Homes
Average price per square foot: ₹5,100
Conclusion
The top 5 posh areas in Bhopal offer the ideal balance of comfort, elegance, and peace. These areas provide a prestigious living environment amidst the city’s cultural legacy and contemporary conveniences, catering to the discerning needs of wealthy people. Each of these areas has its own attraction, from beautiful surroundings to well-designed homes, making Bhopal a city that effortlessly satisfies the needs of those who want luxury living. These upscale districts represent the pinnacle of urban living, where luxury perfectly blends with calm, thanks to their prime locations, superb connectivity, and first-rate amenities.
Dehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand, is emerging as one of the preferred cities to live in due to the city’s several posh areas and the high quality of life it provides. The city is a fantastic residential living package, located in the foothills of the Himalayas in the Garhwal region. It is about 249 kilometres from Delhi and is situated between two major rivers, the Ganges and the Yamuna.
Dehradun is not only known for its beautiful locations and climate, but it is also one of India’s fastest-growing cities. Dehradun is home to some of the best educational institutions in the country. Everything from the military academy to boarding schools can be found here. Dehradun is a city that, like a string, connects all of its significant areas, such as Ghanta Ghar and Paltan Market.
If you are planning to relocate to Dehradun or if your transferable job requires you to do so, you should not be concerned about the best places to live in Dehradun. Here is our Dehradun relocation guide to help you get settled.
1. Rajpur Road
Rajpur Road is a well-known Dehradun neighbourhood. Nike, Woodland, Vishal Mega Mart, Addidas, and many other clothing brands have stores on Rajpur Road. Aside from shopping, there are several fine dining, hotel, and cafe options in this area. Furthermore, there is an English Book Depot on Rajpur Road where you can find copies of all the latest books in various genres.
Rajpur Road is a posh area in Dehradun and the landmark locality of Dehradun, with all of the high-end amenities available and good civic amenities. Rajpur Road, a posh area in Dehradun, stretches for a long distance and serves as a major link road connecting it to many important areas of Dehradun. While the Dehradun Railway Station is only 3 kilometres away, the Jolly Grant Airport is nearly 29 kilometres away from Rajpur Road. Furthermore, as part of the Dehradun Smart City Project, this road will be upgraded to improve connectivity.
Facilities in and around Rajpur Road, Dehradun
- Schools: Scholars Home School, St. Joseph’s Academy, Jaswant Modern Senior Secondary School.
- Hospitals: Kalhan hospital, Nanda hospital, Sakya hospital, Caronation hospital, and many more.
- Shopping Malls/Complex: Pacific Mall, Windlas Shopping Complex, Parsvanath Eleganza Mall, City Centre.
The average price of a property for sale in Rajpur Road is between Rs 55 Lac and Rs 3.60 Cr.
2. Indra Nagar
Indra Nagar is a posh neighbourhood in Dehradun, close to Seemadwar. A bustling market area with very clean and tidy streets. Indra Nagar is also well-connected to the railway station, which is only 5 kilometres away. Aside from all of the amenities available in the area, Indra Nagar provides a clean and scenic view, making it one of the best areas to live in Dehradun for those who want to avoid the rush in places of residence.
Facilities in and around Indra Nagar
- Schools: Harvard Public School, Hill Foundation School, Times World School, Woodland School.
- Shopping Malls/Complex: Arya shopping complex, Queen’s Tower, and Palm Plaza shopping complex.
The average price of a property in Indra Nagar is between Rs 72 Lac (3 BHK) and Rs 80 Lac (3 BHK).
3. Dharampur Nehru Colony
Nehru Colony, near Fuwara Chowk, is another upscale neighbourhood in Dehradun. The Himalayan Institute of Technology, which is also in the area, makes it one of the preferred areas to live in Dehradun. Nehru Colony is connected to Tyagi Road and is close to both ISBT (7.2 km) and the nearest railway station, Dehradun Railway Station, Lakkhi Bagh (2.9 km). In a nutshell, the area serves as a focal point. The District & Sessions Court is also about 3.2 kilometres away. The roads in Nehru Colony are wide and connect the neighbourhood to the rest of the city.
Teg Bahadur Road, Ajabpur Kalan, and EC Road are some of the nearby areas to Dharampur Nehru Colony.
Facilities in and around Nehru Colony, Dehradun
- Schools: Manava Bharati India International School, Little own school, Shivalik Modern Public School, Cambridge Foundation Public School.
- Hospitals: Padmavati Hospital
- Shopping Malls/Complex: Fashion & Freedom, Suvidha Supermarket, Easyday Club.
The average price of a property in Nehru Colony is between Rs 75 Lac (3 BHK) and Rs 85 Lac (3 BHK).
4. Hathibarkala
Close to one of Dehradun’s most popular roads, Rajpur Road, Hathibarkala Salwala is one of the best residential areas in Dehradun. It is one of Dehradun’s affluent neighbourhoods, and the majority of its residents are of high social standing.
Facilities in and around Hathibarkala, Dehradun
- Schools: Modern High School, Foster Public School, Grace Academy, A.M.I Public School.
- Hospitals: Nanda Hospital.
The average price of a property for sale in Hathibarkala is between Rs 75 Lac (3 BHK) and Rs 1.10 Cr (3 BHK).h
5. Chakrata Road
Chakrata Road is a popular Dehradun neighbourhood with a variety of projects available, including several upcoming residential developments. The rent for a three-bedroom flat ranges from Rs. 8,500 to Rs. 10,000. Kanwali Road and Rajendra Nagar are two nearby Dehradun neighbourhoods to Chakrata Road.
Facilities in and around Chakrata, Dehradun
- Schools: Government Primary School, Jaunsar Public School.
- Shopping Malls/Complex: Fashion Point, Mohsin Raza Shop.
The average price of a property in Chakrata is between Rs 28 Lac and Rs 75 Lac.
6. Sahastradhara Road
Sahastradhara, in addition to being a posh area in Dehradun, is also one of the city’s major localities, with excellent connectivity to several other parts of the city. The Sahastradhara Road, which is close to Doon IT Park, has seen significant growth and real estate demand in recent years.
Kasturi Nagar, Jagat Khana, Danda Lokhand, Rajeshwar Nagar Phase 1, and Danda Dhoran are some of the nearby neighbourhoods. Sahastradhara Road is well connected to Dehradun Railway Station, which is only 8 kilometres away, and Jolly Grant Airport, which is 31 kilometres away.
Facilities in and around Sahastradhara Road, Dehradun
- Schools: Harvard Public School, Hill Foundation School, Times World School, Woodland School.
- Hospitals: Happy Family Hospital, Cloudnine Hospital, Malhotra Orthopaedic & Surgical Centre, Paras Bliss Hospital, etc.
- Shopping Malls/Complex: Elante Mall, HI5 Mall, TDI Mall, etc.
- Nearby Attractions: Escape n fly, Research Centre, Garden of Silence, etc.
The average price of a property for sale in Sahastradhara Road is between Rs 12.7 Lac and Rs 2.10 Cr.
7. Vasant Vihar
Vasant Vihar, a beautiful locality centrally located and surrounded by greenery, is regarded as one of the best residential areas and a posh area in Dehradun. The well-maintained infrastructure and the safety it provides make it the best area to live in Dehradun. It is located near the Sethi Market. Given the local property prices, the neighbourhood is a mixed bag of properties suitable for middle- to upper-income earners.
Vasant Vihar is approximately 30 kilometres from the airport, and it is 5 kilometres from the railway station.
Facilities in and around Vasant Vihar, Dehradun
- Schools: Harvard Public School, Hill Foundation School, Times World School, Woodland School.
- Hospitals: Happy Family Hospital, Cloudnine Hospital, Malhotra Orthopaedic & Surgical Centre, Paras Bliss Hospital, etc.
- Shopping Malls/Complex: Elante Mall, HI5 Mall, TDI Mall, etc.
- Nearby Attraction: Escape n fly, Research Centre, Garden of Sile8. nce, etc.
The average price of a property for sale in Vasant Vihar is between Rs 75 Lac and Rs 3 Cr.
8. Mussoorie Road
Mussoorie Road is a premium and posh neighbourhood in Dehradun. It is easily accessible via several nearby attractions, including Kempty Falls, Benog Wildlife Sanctuary, and Rajaji National Park. Furthermore, several notable projects are in the works in the area, including Golden Era Infratech Pvt Ltd, Lamane Infrastructure Pvt. Ltd, and Earthcon Constructions Private Limited, among others. There is a mix of multistory apartments and low to midrise housing options in the area.
Facilities in and around Mussoorie Road, Dehradun
Schools: DIT University and The Pestle Weed School
Hospitals: Csi Dehradun, Kalhan Hospital, Sanjay Orthopaedic and Spine Centre, Sakya Hospital, and Max Hospital
Shopping Malls: Pacific Mall, Doon Square Mall, The Great India Place Dehradun
Conclusion
So that was our rundown of Dehradun’s most affluent neighbourhoods. They all have excellent infrastructure, desirable amenities nearby, seamless connectivity, world-class educational institutions that welcome students, and much more. If you want to build a house in a posh area of Dehradun, you can find a suitable property at a reasonable price if you do your homework.
From mountains to beaches, sweltering summers to snowy winters, there are surroundings and seasons for every preference across India’s vibrant landscape. Filled with rich histories, diverse cultures, and tons of generosity and warmth, many Indian cities manage to strike the right balance between modern-day conveniences and maintaining a community spirit.
In the past few decades, there has been a boom in the technology and tourism sector, rapid growth in education and a multitude of job opportunities attracting Indian citizens to its big cities. The lure of relocation for studies, employment and even retirement is greater than ever. So which Indian cities rank best for these benefits? We’ve covered the most sought-after cities in India so you can make an informed decision if you are considering taking the leap.
1. Bengaluru (Bangalore), Karnataka
Before its name change and IT boom, Bangalore was primarily known for its great weather and scenic surroundings. Today, its climate, which remains cool through most of the year, is still a big draw to those who experience India’s long hot and humid summers or frigid winters. The city still boasts beautiful parks and tree-lined streets with colourful blossoms. The ‘garden city’ also goes by another name – in the last decade, it’s been referred to as the ‘Silicon Valley of India’ because of the huge number of technology giants and IT professionals here. And because of its iconic IT status and the wealth of job opportunities, you’ll find it a preferred location for many young students and professionals.
From entertainment and shopping to art and culture, you’ll find it all in this spirited city. There are no shortages of shopping malls, cinemas, theatres, exhibition halls and galleries here. There are plenty of historical and cultural sites to explore, parks to relax in or exercise at and holiday locations just short drives and flights away.
Some favourite places frequented by Bangalore residents include Cubbon Park, Nandi Hills, Tipu Sultan’s Palace, Lal Bagh Botanical Garden, Bangalore Palace, ISKCON Temple and the National Gallery Of Modern Art.
Neighbourhoods are friendly and welcoming, rents are affordable and civic amenities are almost always up to the mark. If there is one gripe that Bengaluru has, though, it’s its well-documented traffic woes. During peak hours at busy motorways, getting through even a few kilometres can be a lengthy ordeal if you are driving.
2. Pune, Maharashtra
A great option for education, Pune is bustling with a vibrant student culture. Like Bengaluru, it’s a hot IT hub that attracts scores of young and bright professionals looking to make it big in the tech world. A city to satisfy all your urban cravings for restaurants, pubs and bars, nightlife and trendy cafes, Pune is also a culturally-rich city that retained its glorious Marathi history through its theatre, art, food and more.
Some favourite places frequented by Pune residents include Shaniwar Wada, Aga Khan Palace, the Osho Ashram, Empress Garden, Parvati Hill, Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park and Katraj Snake Park.
Pune is not as populated as many big cities like Bangalore and Mumbai so you won’t find yourself whining about the traffic too much. Accommodation prices and the cost of living is also pretty affordable – on par with places such as Bangalore. Pune may be Maharashtra’s second biggest city but, thankfully, its housing costs are no way near the sky-high prices of the largest Maharashtran city, Mumbai.
Pune’s climate too draws many – it’s relatively pleasant with summers getting warm, rarely beyond a bearable 35°C.
3. Surat, Gujarat
If you are longing for clean and litter-free streets, Surat may be on the card for you. Surat was voted the second cleanest city in India in the Swachh Survekshan 2022- the government’s annual cleanliness survey. It scored 6,925 points out of a total points of 7,500, just behind Indore in Madhya Pradesh which has 7,146 points.
The diamond capital of India is growing at breakneck speeds, with a booming textile industry specialising in fabrics such as silk, khadi and brocade. Its annual GDP growth is estimated at 11.5%. Gujarat is also heaven for those who love Indian handicraft and handloom products.
Besides its diamonds, fabrics and cleanliness, Surat has plenty of other great pros. Its delicious Gujarati food is savoured throughout the country and you will get all the authentic flavours right in this city. Residents swear by the mouth-watering street food like dabeli, the yummy sweet Surati Ghari and the over-the-top indulgent Gujarati Thali consisting of snacks/farsans, vegetable dishes, shaak, yogurt, desserts and more.
The housing options are plenty, suiting every budget and costs are affordable. Road connectivity to various important centres is excellent too, making Surat an amazing place to live and work in.
4. Mumbai, Maharashtra
The city that never sleeps, Mumbai is known for its spirit, ambition and cut-throat competition. If you are looking to make it big and ready to give it your all, there is no better city to try your luck. From Bollywood to big business, this city is bursting with manic energy and the best can truly blossom here. It’s always crowded, with over 23 million people. It is the sixth most populous metropolitan area in the world.
Mumbai has a beautiful coastline with gorgeous beaches and promenades. It houses UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Elephanta Caves and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus. Its city centre houses gorgeous Victorian and Art Deco buildings and the whole area is filled with rich history and culture.
The city is connected well with its road network and is known for its railway system that transports millions daily. Traffic is still, however, an issue at peak hours.
Rents and property prices are skyhigh and Mumbai is the most expensive city to live in in India. If you are starting out, you may be shocked at the cost of rent for a 1BHK, which can be around Rs. 60,000 in sought-after areas in the city.
5. Chennai, Tamil Nadu
If cost of living is a big factor in deciding which city to live in, then Chennai is a great option. It is one of the most affordable cities in India to live in with low rents and great work opportunities, with a booming IT industry. In fact, Chennai is second only to Bangalore when it comes to tech hubs in India. There are a huge number of startups and software companies thriving in this city.
Chennai is known for its amazing food and coffee culture. If you love South Indian cuisine, this city is where you can sample some of the best dosas, idlis and chutneys. There are great malls, supermarkets, restaurants, pubs and bars so you won’t be left wanting for things to do or entertainment options.
Tamil Nadu’s capital is filled with historical sites. You’ll find old temples, forts, buildings and churches. Some must-visit places include the Government Museum, Fort St George, Valluvar Kottam, San Thome Cathedral Basilica and Victoria Public Hall.
There are beautiful beaches to explore and a host of wonderful places only short drives away. It’s the perfect location for road trips and weekend getaways. Popular holiday spots near Chennai include Mahabalipuram (57 kilometres away), Pondicherry (170 kilometres away), Tirupati (134 kilometres away), Vellore(138 kilometres away) and Yelagiri Hills (230 kilometres away).
With all its positives, Chennai does have one factor that many would consider a major downside: its heat. The summers are extremely hot and humid with temperatures going as high as 40°C.
6. Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra
Navi Mumbai, also known as New Bombay, is a planned city in the state of Maharashtra. Here you will find a wide range of great sites to visit. There is Central Park, Pandavkada Falls, Karnala Bird Sanctuary, Rock Garden, DY Patil Stadium, Gadeshwar Dam, Belapur Mango Garden, Wonder Park, Airoli Knowledge Park, Sagar Vihar Garden, Nerul Balaji Temple, Bhawani Temple, Shiva Temple, ITC Park, Millennium Business Park.
Navi Mumbai scores high on our livability list because of its great balance of commercial and community. Rents are reasonable if you compare it to neighbouring Mumbai. There are tons of large organisations and job opportunities and plenty of recreational spaces like parks, shopping centres, restaurants and pubs.
Another huge factor adding to Navi Mumbai’s appeal is that, unlike Mumbai, it is relatively clean and air pollution isn’t sky-high. Public transport via the railway and bus network is great so commuting isn’t a hassle – plus, the upcoming metro will make travelling even easier. However, if you happen to work in Mumbai, you may end up spending many hours commuting to and from work every day.
7. Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Most Indians have known Ahmedabad as being a famous textile hub, producing an amazing array of fabrics and designs. It is known as the ‘Manchester of the East’ because of its likeness to the famous cotton textile centre of Manchester. Even today, people visit from all over to purchase the beautiful traditional textiles available here.
Ahmedabad is one of the most affordable cities in India. It is clean and has great infrastructure with good schools, hospitals, malls, parks and restaurants. If you love Gujarati food, you can enjoy some of the best snacks like Khakhra, Fafda, Dhokla, Thepla, Dal Vada, Dabeli, Sev and Farsan here.
There are many beautiful architectural and historic monuments. One of the most famous is The Sabarmati Ashram where Mahatma Gandhi once lived. It is now a museum. Other attractions in the city include Statue of Unity, Swaminarayan Temple, Manek Chowk and Lal Darwaja Market. Those who love rich fabrics cannot miss the wedding shopping centre at Dhalgarwad.
Ahmedabad has great options for its residents with nice neighbourhoods in areas such as Satellite, SG Highway and Prahlad Nagar. Here you can find cosy apartments and homes at reasonable and affordable rents to suit all budgets.
While Ahmedabad is not as fast paced as some Indian cities like Mumbai and Bangalore, it is still a good option if you are looking for a slower pace and affordability.
8. Kolkata, West Bengal
Formerly known as Calcutta, the capital of the eastern state of West Bengal is one of the most crowded cities in India. However, don’t let that stop you from exploring this ‘Cultural Capital’ that is known for its rich history, great food, amazing literature, delectable sweets and street food. Kolkata is one of the most affordable big cities in India to live in, with the cost of living much lower than cities like Mumbai and Bangalore.
Located along the Hooghly River, Kolkata is also scenic to boot, making it a wonderful option for living. There are plenty of well-known international and Indian organisations with offices here, including Britannia, Coal India, National Insurance Company, Reliance Industries and ITC Limited. It also ranks as one of India’s top ten wealthiest cities, having an estimated GDP of $150.1 billion.
Some places visitors must go to in Kolkata include Victoria Memorial, Marble Palace, Howrah Bridge, Sunderbans and Kalighat Kali Temple.
If you love art, music and architecture, Kolkata is one of the best places in India to learn and enjoy these things. There are always cultural events and festivals celebrating music, art, films and food. The museums and historical sites are well-kept and a joy to visit. You can immerse yourself in its colonial past through the famous architecture and literary wonders.
While Kolkata has plenty of offer, keep in mind that it may not be on par with other metropolitan cities in India in terms of the best infrastructure.
9. Hyderabad, Telangana
Hyderabad is growing at a fast pace and a great option for affordability and work opportunities. It’s an ideal place for those who are starting their careers and families, too, as rents are on the low side but there are great schools, hospitals and other civic amenities available.
Young residents enjoy the nightlife, restaurants, pubs and shopping centres that dot this exciting city. And for those who love biryani, Hyderabad is heaven with a huge range of delicious options.
As far as housing goes, you can find modern highrises in this metropolitan city. These are great options as amenities are plenty and rents are extremely affordable. Hyderabad is an up and coming IT hub with many startups and tech companies running here so those in the IT sector will find many like minded people to mix with.
Even with its modern comforts, Hyderabad still exudes old-world charm, with its rich culture and heritage still evident in its practised traditions. There are plenty of beautiful historical sites like Golconda Fort, Charminar, Qutub Shahi Tombs, Mecca Masjid, Chowmahalla Palace, Salar Jung Museum, Taramati Baradari and Malwala Palace.
Traffic is well under control and you won’t find yourself in a jam too often when driving like other big cities in India. Weather can be an issue in Hyderabad though, with summers getting extremely hot and humid.
10. Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu
After Chennai, Coimbatore is the largest city in Tamil Nadu. It’s a warm and welcoming city with plenty of great getaways nearby that its residents can take advantage of. Hill stations near Coimbatore include Ooty, Valparai and Wayanad.
Coimbatore is a scenic city with beautiful temples, parks, modern buildings and waterfalls through the locality. There are good schools and hospitals here so it is a great place to live with your family. Rents are very affordable, with a good 2BHK well within reach with a Rs15,000 budget.
Some of Coimbatore’s main attractions include the Marudhamalai Hill Temple, Monkey Falls, VOC Park and Zoo. It is also famous for its 112-foot-tall statue of Lord Shiva known as the Adiyogi Shiva Statue. This statue is included in the Guinness Book of World Records and tourists from all over the world visit it when they come to the city.
For those who love nature and the outdoors, the weather in Coimbatore is pleasant almost all through the year and there is lots of lush greenery around.
Although it is a smaller city, there are good roads that are well maintained and the civic amenities are good. There are also more than enough entertainment options around with restaurants, malls and multiplexes in most areas.
The topic of taxation and filing returns is perhaps one of the most tedious and debatable. Housing societies in the past dwelled under the misconception that since they are a cooperative society and not primarily focused on profits, they are not liable to pay tax. Nothing could be further from the truth. Many societies especially those who run a tight ship with their accounts audits and have well-informed and proactive committee members are regular with their taxes and returns. The problem of misinformation or lack of initiative lies with the outlier societies who have failed to comply either due to lack of knowledge on housing society tax rules or due to a certain apathy. In this article, we will elaborate upon the income tax rules, tax slabs, and penalties with respect to housing societies.
Under the Income Tax Act of 1961, co-operative societies are taxable entities. It falls under the category of Association of Persons (AOP) which is a group of individuals (whether incorporated or not) who get together with a common purpose and have a legal entity. Under the Co-operative Societies Act, housing societies are granted a separate legal existence. But not all income earned by housing societies is taxable. Section 80(p) of the Income Tax Act applies to co-operative housing societies, providing rules of deduction in respect of income of co-operative societies.
Let’s understand in detail the deductions, exemptions and ITR rules for housing societies.
Liability of housing societies to file income tax returns
As required by the terms of their various cooperative society statutes, all housing societies must file their ITR by the deadline, which is September 30 of the year after the financial year. The housing society must pay interest on the shortfall in payment of balance tax after adjusting TDS and advance tax if it fails to file its ITR by the deadline and the outstanding tax liability if it has not already been discharged by way of TDS or by payment of advance tax.
If the housing society misses the deadline for filing its ITR, it still has until March 31 of the year after the period for which the ITR pertains to file it. If the delay occurs up until December, the society is required to pay a mandatory cost of Rs 5,000; however, if the delay occurs after December of the following year, the fee is Rs 10,000. If the housing society’s taxable amount does not exceed Rs. 5 lakhs, the necessary cost for filing the return late is limited to Rs. 1000.
Income sources for a housing society? And how many are taxable?
While a housing society has a number of sources that bring in finances, not all of their earnings are taxable. Their income can be roughly divided into two parts; the one that comes from members and the one that comes from non-members. Let’s understand these in detail.
1. Contribution from members
The main source that runs the society is the pooling together of the members’ financial contributions to pay for the service and amenities. This includes a gambit of charges paid by members such as maintenance expenses, water, electricity, service staff charges, lift charges, etc. All these are simply collected by the managing committee who acts as a collector and then pays it forward to the relevant parties. These are not taxable under the income tax act. Even after the charges have been paid by the society and there remains some surplus, it is not taxable and is categorised as an exemption under the ‘concept of mutuality’. It means that one cannot profit from one’s own contributions. All the expenses are paid by the members towards a common fund which is not considered as an individual’s income.
2. Interest charged on defaulting members
If the housing society earns any interest from penalising late payments, i.e. charging defaulters interest, it is allowed a 100% exemption and not subject to taxation.
3. Interest earned on investments
Any income earned through the way of interest from any co-operative entity (a co-operative bank) is subject to an exemption. However, if any interest is earned from investment in any other non-cooperative entity is taxable.
4. Interest earned from fixed deposits
Up until 2016, many housing societies would deposit their sinking funds, corpus fund and surplus from member charges as fixed deposits in co-operative banks so that they would be exempt from taxes. However, that amount would run into lakhs. The government then decided to charge these as the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal declared: “Deduction us 80P (2)(d) is available to co-operative housing society on interest on FD with other co-operative banks.” (Source: The Economic Times). This also includes nationalised banks.
4. Interest earned from fixed deposits
Up until 2016, many housing societies would deposit their sinking funds, corpus fund and surplus from member charges as fixed deposits in co-operative banks so that they would be exempt from taxes. However, that amount would run into lakhs. The government then decided to charge these as the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal declared: “Deduction us 80P (2)(d) is available to co-operative housing society on interest on FD with other co-operative banks.” (Source: The Economic Times). This also includes nationalised banks.
5. Dividend
Dividends earned from any other non-cooperative entity is taxable, however, if earned from a co-operative organization is exempt from tax.
6. Rent earned from open spaces
Some societies rent out premises for billboards and signages to companies and also sell their rooftop/terrace space to install mobile or cable towers. Income earned from these rental sources is subject to tax.
7. Non-occupancy charges
As the non-occupancy charges are paid by members not availing the benefits of the residence, it does not qualify for the concept of mutuality benefit, thus is taxable to the society. The transfer fee is exempt from tax.
8. Income earned from parking charges
Earnings made from members paying parking charges is not subject to tax. However, if a housing society rents out parking space to non-members, income earned is liable to be taxed.
Tax slab for housing societies
- If a society earns up to Rs 10,000, the tax slab is 10% of total income.
- If a society earns between Rs 10,001 and Rs 20,000, the tax slab is 20% of the amount by which the income exceeds Rs 10,000 + Rs 1000.
- If a society earns above Rs 30,000, the tax slab is 30% of the amount by which the income exceeds Rs 20,000 + Rs 3000.
Note: In the case of housing societies whose income exceeds Rs 1 crore in a year, their tax liability increases by a surcharge of 12% on the tax. For the period of 2018-2019, taxation increased by 3% for Education Cess and Higher Education Cess. This is levied by the government over and above the base tax liability to raise funding for education.
How to file income tax returns for a housing society
Every housing society is mandated to file ITR according to an amendment was made in section 80 AC of the Income Tax Act in 2018 Budget. Income Tax Return form that housing societies are to use is ITR-5. Housing societies are required to have their PAN Cards, to register themselves as a co-operative and also to open a bank account and file their tax returns. You can file the returns electronically (e-Filing) with a digital signature or send the transmission of data electronically and submit verification with the ITR5 form by post to the income tax department.
Advance Tax
If a society is liable to pay Rs 10,000 or more as tax (Tax liability minus TDS), it is required to pay advance tax in three instalments. By September 15 of the previous year, advance tax is up to 30% of the tax payable, by December 15 of the previous year, up to 60% of tax payable and by March 15 of the previous year, up to 100% of tax payable. Non-compliance interest is 1% per month on tax but no interest is charged if 90% of advance tax is paid from the total tax payable.
Penalty for filing late returns
The due date to file tax returns of the previous year is 30th September of every year. If a housing society fails to file its returns by the due date, it is required to pay interest at 1% per month or part of the month, calculated under simple interest on tax payable on the outstanding tax liability.
Salaries and TDS for housing societies
If salaries paid to its employees exceeds Rs 2,50,000, tax is required to be deducted from salary as per Sections 24, 80C, etc. Housing co-operatives are required to have a TAN (Tax Deduction Account Number) when it deducts TDS (Tax Deductible at Source). If a housing cooperative is making payments (usually to contractors, lift maintenance, security services, professionals, etc) that are taxable as TDS they have to deduct it as per the prescribed rate and file remittance amount to the income tax account (within seven days from the end of the month in which the payment is made). If the one-time payment exceeds Rs 30,000 or if the total payment for a year exceeds Rs 75,000, TDS is deducted at 1% to individual / 2% to a company. If the professional fee of a person is more than Rs.30,000 in a financial year, the society deducts TDS at 10%.
TDS certificate in form 16 A is to be issued to the person whose TDS the society deducts. Quarterly TDS returns have to be filed by the housing society, the due dates for which are, 15th July, 15th October, 15th January (first three quarters of FY), and 15th May (last quarter of FY). If a society does not deduct TDS, a penalty interest of 1% p.m. is charged and if does not send remittance of the TDS, the penalty is 1.5% per month.
GST for housing societies
A housing society has to get a GST Registration if its income exceeds Rs 20 lakh in revenues. But GST does not apply if the monthly member contribution is less than Rs 7500. Property taxes, electricity bills are not to be included in the Rs 7500 and are exempt from GST.
If your society has been non-compliant with income tax deductions and returns so far, it is not too late to get back on the horse and start with basic corrective measures from the managing committee. At a later stage, you can always consider hiring a tax consultant or advisor if you decide your books need professional expertise.
Tax benefits available to a cooperative housing society
Tax benefits for cooperative housing society are allowed under Section 80P of the Income Tax Act. As part of the Budget 2022, the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) for cooperative societies were reduced from 18.5% down to 15%. Government also proposed to reduce the surcharge on cooperative societies with income between Rs.1-10 Crores, from 12% down to 7%.
Cooperative society tax rate in 2022
There is a certain income tax rate for all co-operative housing societies. Residential cooperative societies have the option to pay tax at a rate of 22% beginning in AY 2021–2022 in accordance with section 115BAD. The total income will be calculated without taking into account any exemptions or deductions available to cooperative groups, nevertheless.
| Cooperative housing society income tax slab | Tax rate |
|---|---|
| Up to Rs. 10,000 | 10% |
| Rs 10,000 to Rs 20,000 | 20% |
| Above Rs 20,000 | 30% |
Central Goods and Services Tax is an indirect tax to be paid by end-users for the consumption of goods and services. It was implemented in 2017, and it applies not just to individuals and corporations, but to housing societies as well, with exceptions, of course.
To understand in-depth the correct eligibility criteria for a housing society’s liability towards GST, here’s a comprehensive guide that covers all essential information and facts you need to know about co-operative society compliance with GST rules.
What is GST & inclusion provision under the Act
| Act | Inclusions/Definitions |
|---|---|
| CGST Act 2017 Section 7 | “Supply” includes all forms of supply of goods or services or both, such as sale, transfer, barter, exchange, license, rental, lease or disposal made or agreed to be made for a consideration by a person in the course or furtherance of business. |
| CGST Act 2017 Section 7 And Section 2 (17 e) | States “business” as “Provision by a club, association, society, or any such body (for a subscription or any other consideration) of the facilities or benefits to its members. |
GST Act applicability to housing societies
1. As per Section 2(84) “Person” includes
a co-operative society registered under any law relating to co-operative societies or a Society as defined under the Societies Registration Act, 1860. A cooperative housing society is to be considered as a ‘person’ under the definition of ‘supply’.
2. As per Sec 2(31) “Consideration”
in relation to the supply of goods or services or both includes (a) any payment made or to be made, whether in money or otherwise, in respect of, in response to, or for the inducement of, the supply of goods or services or both, whether by the recipient or by any other person but shall not include any subsidy given by the Central Government or a State Government.
Housing society registration under GST
As per Section 22, if the turnover of the housing society is over Rs 20 lakh and/or it levies more than Rs 20 lakh in aggregate annual maintenance charges in a financial year, it needs to take registration under GST laws and obtain a registration number, but the payment of GST depends on other parameters (covered below).
However, there are exceptions for Kashmir, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, where the threshold limit for registration liability is Rs 10 lakh.
Criteria for applicable GST payment for society maintenance
If the society’s monthly maintenance bill is more than Rs 7500 per house, 18% GST is applicable on the entire amount.
If a person owns more than one residence in a society, then a ‘separate’ ceiling of Rs 7500 is considered as the second unit also gets an individual exemption of Rs 7500.
However, there is an exemption if the annual aggregate turnover of the housing society is not over Rs 20 lakh.
Thus, for GST to apply, two criteria must be met.
| Annual turnover of a housing society | Monthly maintenance charge | GST |
|---|---|---|
| ₹20 Lakh or less | ₹7500 or less | Exempt |
| ₹20 Lakh or less | More than ₹7500 | Exempt |
| More than ₹20 Lakh | ₹7500 or less | Exempt |
| More than ₹20 Lakh | More than ₹7500 | Applicable |
Furthermore, GST doesn’t apply to the difference amount alone. For example, if the monthly maintenance bill is Rs 9000, GST will apply to the entire amount, not just to Rs 1500.
Property Tax, Water Tax, Municipal Tax, Non-Agricultural Land Tax paid to the state are exempt from GST.
Sinking Fund, Maintenance and Repair Funds, Car Parking funds, Non-Occupancy Funds, interest from late payments, are not exempt from GST since they are considered charges collected by the society for the supply of services to members.
Let’s understand this in detail for clarity.
Inclusions and exclusions for the societies that fall above the limit of Rs 7500
1. Sinking fund
It is considered a type of service provided by the housing society to its residents hence included.
2. Repairs & maintenance fund
This falls in the category of residents paying for repairs, common services, audits, maintenance dues, etc., thus it’s to be considered as inclusion as it falls under taxability.
3. Non-occupancy charges
These are not considered a part of the Property Tax for common premises, hence included.
4. Parking charges
The same logic applies for parking charges since it’s an individual collection for a specific service.
5. Water charges
If the water charges are collected on behalf of the members by the society for individual use (e.g. water tankers or government source), then they don’t fall under taxation under GST limit as tax may already be applied on it as per the law. If the water charges are for common use,l (e.g. generating electricity to give drinking/potable water facilities as a service), then they’re included under the Rs 7500 limit.
6. Property tax
Property tax on common areas is to be considered as an inclusion in the limit as well. However, if the society is only an intermediary, collecting individual residents’ property tax and handing it over to the government, then it’s not considered under the limit. Property Tax on any other places, like stores and parking spaces (if applicable) should be subject to respective law but not included in GST calculations.
7. Share transfer fees
At the time of property sale share transfer fees are charged which are taxable, which is why they are not included in GST.
8. Common services
Services like the clubhouse, gym, pool are considered taxable, hence must be utilised under GST calculations. If a society uses common spaces like clubhouse, garden, terrace or any other part of the premises for use of members and outsiders on rent, for hire, it’s liable for tax, hence must be covered under the calculation slab.
9. Income received as interest on defaulters
It is considered an individual charge and not used for common uses, thus it’s excluded from taxation consideration.
10. Income received from renting space
Income received from renting space for mobile towers is derived from business, thus it’s to be included in the calculation.
Input tax credit for society
ITC is the tax reduction that you can claim since you’ve already paid on the goods and services. For example, if you’re a housing society who has paid for pipes and construction materials for repair and maintenance of your premises, or have hired the services of an Auditor for your annual accounts, you can claim the credit upon it.
Housing Societies will avail the benefits of ITC which means that if they pay taxes on repair and renovation, capital goods (generators, lawn furniture, water pumps, etc.) and other goods (taps, pipes, hardware, construction materials), they will receive a tax deduction but for them to avail this benefit, the reverse charge mechanism will apply on all goods and services received by suppliers; the set-off can be claimed against the tax liability for maintenance funds.
However, this benefit is available if the amount charged for these supplies is over Rs 7500 per member.
A housing society can impart the benefits of Input Tax Credit by lowering the maintenance charges for members, the amount of which can be determined after proper cost analysis and comparison of output/input tax amounts against overall expenses and income.
What are the requirements for claiming ITC for housing society?
- Society should have the tax invoice
- Goods/services procured should be received, and if they’re being received in installments, the last installment should be received before claiming ITC.
- Tax Returns should have been filed by the society
- The supplier of goods/services has paid the tax being charged to the government.
- ITC is not allowed if the depreciation has already been claimed on the tax component of capital goods/services.
Periodic filing & compliance rules for housing society
A housing society has to file 37 returns, three returns per month, which include:
- Billing Side – 10th of the following month
- Expense Side – 15th of the following month
- Consolidated Return – 20th of the following month
- As well as: One Annual Return GSTR 9 by the end of 31st December next year (for the year 2019-2020 by 31st December 2020)
If a housing society deducts TDS, then they have to file GSTR7 by the 10th of the following month. Housing Societies do not fall under the Composition Scheme.
MC/RWA are expected to maintain proper records of all Supply and Expense reports for 72 months for auditing purposes.
Different GST forms & their importance
- GST 1 – to be filled by all regular taxpayers who are registered under GST, including casual taxable persons (with debit/credit notes, invoices of outward supply).
- GST 2A(&B) are view/read-only available and relevant for the recipient or buyer of goods and services, and can be referred to when any invoice is missing, the buyer can communicate with the seller to upload it in their GSTR-1. No action can be taken on GSTR 2. 2B contains constant ITC data for back referral.
- GST 3B (3 not in use currently)- This is also to be filled by all normal taxpayers, including societies, to provide details of supplies made, ITC claims details, tax liabilities, and payments.
Housing societies should ensure that sales/supplies and ITC details are reconciled with GSTR 1 and GSTR 2B every tax season before filing GSTR 3 B.
Frequently asked questions
It’s Goods and Services Tax, which is levied on the supply of goods and services and is a value-added tax levied on most goods and services sold for domestic and commercial consumption.
No.
Yes. GST exemption and application apply to property used for commercial purposes.
Yes. If the vendor’s services fall under GST rules, the society has to pay as per the percentage applied. E.g., GST payable for contractor services.
In this case, GST applies only to the second apartment for which the maintenance is Rs 8000.
How does this affect maintenance bill/other bill formats?
The society has to add GST to the monthly, quarterly, and yearly invoices and mention the GSTIN No on all invoices where applicable.
What forms are to be used for monthly filing?
Monthly GST forms are GSTR 1, GSTR 2A,and GSTR 3.
On what repair and maintenance services is Input Tax Credit allowed?
On services such as lift AMC, Housekeeping, Security, Fire AMC, Contracting Staff, Accounting and Auditing Services, etc.
What should be excluded while calculating the limit of Rs 7500?
Property tax, electricity charges collected from individual flat owners and other statutory levies are excluded.
What should be included while calculating the limit of Rs 7500?
Water/electricity charges for common areas and common services like clubhouse, swimming pool, along with parking charges, common property tax, payments for repair and maintenance, security, admin, accounting, Non Occupancy charges.
Are share transfer fees/ interest on late payment included in the limit of Rs 7500?
No. Share Transfer Fees are taxable but not included in the Rs 7500 limit as no third party is involved. Similarly, interest on default is an individual charge, so it’s taxable, but not covered under the limit of Rs 7500.
Does GST apply to housing societies?
Ever since the changes in Budget 2021 were introduced, all types of cooperative housing societies are included under GST applicability as they provide services to the members. However, exemptions apply.
It’s 18% (State GST is 9% and Central GST is 9%).
What are the documents needed?
a) In general, invoices issued by the supplier.
b) An invoice such as a Bill of Supply if the amount is less than Rs 200 or if reverse charges mechanism applies.
c) Bill of Entry or similar documents issued by the Customs Department (if applicable)
d) Bill of Supply issued by the supplier
e) Other documents required in the Form
Is GST applicable to maintenance charges paid by residents?
Maintenance charges up to an amount of Rs. 7500 per month, per member, are exempt from GST. Earlier, the exemption was available on a monthly maintenance charge of up to Rs. 5000 per member. The limit was increased to Rs. 7500 with effect from 25th January 2018.
How does the GST exemption work if a person owns two or more flats in a housing society?
In such case, GST exemption of Rs. 7500 per month, per apartment, shall be applied separately for each apartment owned by him.
For example, if a person owns two residential apartments in a society and pays Rs. 15000 per month as a maintenance charge (calculated at Rs. 7500 per month, per apartment), the exemption from GST shall be available to each apartment.
How is GST payable in societies where maintenance charges exceed Rs. 7500 per month, per member?
In case, for society, the maintenance charges exceed Rs. 7500 per month, per member, the entire amount is taxable.
Let’s understand this with an example. If the monthly maintenance charges for a housing society are Rs. 9000 per member, the GST @18% shall be payable on the entire amount of Rs. 9000 and not on Rs. 1500.
* Refer to the latest GST circular issued by the Government of India, Ministry of Finance Department of Revenue (Tax Research Unit), New Delhi.
How does the GST calculation work (with example)?
| Total amount received | Water charges | Sinking fund | Taxable |
| 8000 | 500 | 500 | 7500 |
| 4000 | 500 | 500 | 0 |
What is the procedure to claim ITC and how much can be claimed?
Taxpayers should enter the ITC amount in their monthly, quarterly, yearly GST forms (Form GSTR-1,2,3) and enter details like amounts eligible and ineligible for ITC and reversal, etc. as mentioned in the form. The recipients can claim provisional input tax credit in GSTR-3B to the extent of 5% instead of earlier 10% of the total ITC available in GSTR-2B for the month.
Where can society view the seller’s uploaded invoices?
Invoices uploaded by the seller in GSTR-1 can be viewed by the purchaser in his GSTR-2B form.
You hardly give a second thought to your local riverbank strewn with brown matter or freshwater lake that smells like rotten eggs, because you’d think that the government will make sure the water supply is clean before it reaches our home. Then the same water flows through your kitchen tap and you seem to believe that it looks clean…but is it really? When the Bureau of Indian Standards did a water quality check on India’s 13 big cities, all (except Mumbai) failed the test of water quality.
‘So what? We don’t drink tap water, we install water purifiers and buy mineral water anyway,’ you’d rationalize, without addressing the real problem at the source again.
If our rivers and lakes were never polluted to begin with, and if each one of us cleaned our own mess instead of dumping it on the planet and its precious water source, we’d have uninterrupted, clean water, fit for human consumption, straight out of the tap, much like the world’s most developed countries.
Water management and treatment in metropolitan cities is a dystopian nightmare.The biggest reason for water pollution in India is untreated sewage, an astounding 70-80% of total sewage of a country of 135 billion people.
According to a report by the Central Pollution Control Board, “In a number of cities, the existing treatment capacity remains underutilized while a lot of sewage is discharged without treatment in the same city…” As per the government inventory, there are less than a thousand sewage treatment plants in India.
Long story short, we need to consider private wastewater treatment options, like a Sewage Treatment Plant or STP.
What is a sewage treatment plant?
Sewage treatment plants process and treat wastewater/sewage, breaking it down into a cleaner ‘effluent’ that can be returned back to nature in a safer, eco-friendly form. They help restore groundwater balance, curb diseases and stop degradation and pollution of the environment.
In housing societies, the treated water can be used for non potable purposes such as gardening, washing cars, construction, irrigation and toilet flushing.
Cleaner water would minimize fatalities due to water borne diseases, there’d be less negative environmental impact from water pollution and from a much narrower point of view, no house would have to pay for water tankers, because there’d be abundance of groundwater on macro scales and reusable water at community levels.
How does a sewage treatment plant work?
They work in four phases – preliminary, primary, secondary and tertiary treatment.
1. Preliminary treatment
Removes the biggies like plastic bottles, tree branches, rags, wrappers, solid, coarse objects and materials.
2. Primary treatment
Occurs inside a sedimentation tank which settles to the bottom all the organic and inorganic solids while the grease, oil and lighter solids are moved to the surface using skimmers. This phase is expected to remove at least 60% of solids (mechanically scraped off and directed to sludge treatment) while the remaining water moves to the next stage.
3. Secondary treatment
Entails secondary clarifiers separating biological floc from the liquid with the use of aerobic biological processes (through managed indigenous microorganisms that consume biodegradable soluble contaminants). This stage is focused on intensive cleaning of water (up to 90%) after flotsam and solids are cleared in primary treatment.
4. Tertiary treatment
Is advanced treatment that reduces pathogens, nitrogen, phosphorus and other inorganic compounds by disinfecting the water chemically, through ultraviolet light, or micro filtration, before releasing for reuse. Sludge is treated in digesting tanks with anaerobic bacteria and later used as fertilizer.
STP norms and guidelines by the government
In metro cities like Mumbai, housing projects with more than 20,000 sq metres are given clearance upon the condition that they treat solid waste in-house, making it mandatory for them to have functional and compliant private STPs. However, the installation at design level is the responsibility of the builder who is also required to maintain it for five years after occupancy by residents.
Sewage treatment norms have eased, renewed and scrapped since 2015 until they were made stricter in 2019 eventually. Here’s an easy to understand lowdown.
In 2015, the Central Pollution Control Board had placed strict rules regarding effluent discharge which regulated the amount of pollutants that can be allowed for discharging back into water bodies. In 2017, the norms were relaxed, allowing higher levels of pollutants. Meanwhile a study by IIT Kanpur, IIT Roorkee, NEERI and CPCB yielded that diluted rules worsened the water quality of rivers. In 2019, the NGT (National Green Tribunal) scrapped the eased norms, reintroducing stringent rules with respect to treated effluent. Now new and old STPs across mega and metro cities will have to follow the revised standards mentioned below.
- BOD (Biochemical Oxygen Demand) level – 10mg/L
- pH value – 5.5-9.0
- Total Suspended Solids – 10mg/L
- Nitrogen – 10mg/L
- COD (Chemical Oxygen Demand) – 50
- Fecal Coliform – 230 per 100 millilitres
Maintenance of STP
Low-budget STPs need frequent emptying and monitoring but even a good one would have to be desludged and serviced at least once a year. After desludging, it should be immediately refilled by water to balance the internal and external pressure.
Under no circumstances should rainwater enter the STP. It could flush out bacteria and cause flooding.
Emptying of primary tanks and soakaways must be done regularly by the society, not the manufacturer’s service staff.
Below components should be checked during maintenance visits:
- Unobstructed, strong and efficient blower and ventilation
- Mechanical components replacement if needed
- Inspection for air filters and pipes inspection
- Diffuser inspection for bubbles
- Biomass color and smell check
- Final effluent quality
- Damage repair in all chambers
- Lid seal integrity
- Replacement of diaphragms and valve boxes
Refer to the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines booklet for a detailed understanding of every protocol.
STPs require a CFO ( Consent For Operation) from the state pollution boards which have to be renewed every five years. Consent is granted after submitting paperwork, consent fees and a thorough inspection from regional officers of the Board.
The flipside of conventional STPs and eco-friendly options
An aerobic STP generally in vogue has moving parts and needs manual operation, i.e. higher maintenance and opex. It utilizes a lot of electricity for functioning (since aerobic bacterial colonies require constant air) and a trained professional has to be hired for operating it daily. Depending on the KLD (kilo litres per day) capacity, one unit can cost from Rs 8 lakh to Rs 20 lakh and above. Monthly expenses would thus be somewhere over Rs 60,000 for a mid-sized society (or approx. Rs 20 lakh per annum including labour and electricity for a 200 KLD unit).
Regular STPs are currently being used due to widespread established acceptance, yet as you may have surmised, they are not exactly ‘install and forget’; they’re energy-intensive and demand care. Societies are realizing the need for eco friendly, self-sustainable STPs that do not raise their electricity bill, don’t need monitoring, add beauty to the aesthetic ambience of the premises, while providing chemical free effluent that is completely harmless to humans and nature. Enter Bio STPs, otherwise known as Green STPs.
They use Anaerobic Microbial Inoculum (AMI) in which bacteria disintegrate organic waste, converting it into biogas through components like bio-digesters placed underground and reed beds above ground (constructed wetlands which allow bacteria and microorganisms to clean waste water). It produces biogas for cooking as well as safe non potable water for reuse without any chemicals.
It uses no electricity, is low maintenance and pays for itself in 10 years. It is surprisingly low cost and easy to install too. A unit starts from around Rs 6 lakh onwards.
There is also availability of eco friendly STPs that function on biomimicry of cow’s stomach (ruminant digestion). Another highly eco-friendly technology available in India is Soil Bio Technology based STP (CAMUS/SBT developed by IIT Bombay) that uses trickling filter concept, where purification is done through respiration of organisms, plant photosynthesis and mineral weathering.
STPs are your best bet for a sustainable future, not to mention mandatory for larger complexes. Sooner rather than later, it’s prudent to make them a way of life. Let water come full circle and not flow to countless drains and dead-ends.