The Maharashtra government has set March 2028 as the target to inaugurate the redeveloped Manora MLA hostel at Nariman Point. Construction of the two towers is progressing, even as the project’s cost has continued to rise since the contract was awarded in 2023.
The project was awarded to Larsen & Toubro (L&T) for Rs 1,266 crore in March 2023. The cost later increased to Rs 1,750 crore and has now reached Rs 2,009 crore, according to a Hindustan Times report.
Public Works Department (PWD) officials attributed the latest increase to additional development charges linked to the project’s floor space index (FSI) of 5.39. The cost of interior design and furniture has also contributed to the escalation. An additional Rs 55.50 crore has been allocated towards development charges.
Two Towers Planned For The Redeveloped Complex
The project will replace the four 14-storey buildings of the Manora MLA hostel, which were demolished in March 2019 after the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) declared them dilapidated.
The new complex will comprise a 42-storey tower and a 29-storey tower. According to a senior PWD official, the 42-storey Tower A has reached its 34th floor, while construction of the 29-storey tower has been completed.
The state government has set March 2028 as the inauguration deadline. Project architect Shashi Prabhu said construction was progressing rapidly and was expected to be completed within the stipulated time.
The complex will include rooms and offices for legislators and their staff, parking for 750 vehicles, two meeting halls, an auditorium, a library and a gymnasium.
Alternative Accommodation Costs Exceed Rs 210 Crore
The delay in completing the hostel has also resulted in expenditure on alternative accommodation for legislators. Since February 2018, the state legislature has spent more than Rs 210 crore to provide accommodation to 288 MLAs and 78 MLCs, officials said.
More than 200 legislators have been allotted rooms measuring around 300 square feet at the Akashwani MLA Hostel. Those who have been allotted rooms receive Rs 50,000 per month towards alternative accommodation, while legislators without allotted rooms receive Rs 1 lakh per month.
The annual expenditure on alternative accommodation stands at Rs 30.50 crore, according to a state legislature official.
The new Manora complex is expected to provide accommodation and facilities for legislators once the redevelopment is completed.
Source: Hindustan Times
