Althan, Khajod next in line for mega development

SURAT: Twenty-first century's firstdecade saw huge development in city's Adajan-Rander and nearby areas. Althan andKhajod that saw very little by way of actual development have now begun towitness boom with real estate market shifting to the stretch towards Navsari.It is only natural that the new residential localities are set up onthis stretch if planners hope to realise their dream of a Surat Navsari twincity by 2025 with a projected population of 1.15 crore. "These areasare buzzing with activity after sanctioning of final town planning (TP) schemeNo. 36 and four preliminary TP schemes. The next decade will see a huge movementof middle class people to Althan and Khajod," said Jivan Patel, director ofplanning (DOP), Surat Municipal Corporation. (SMC). Areas likeAbhwa, Bhartanana and Bhimrad-Sarsana near the university will also see a lot ofdevelopment. "Land has almost exhausted towards Dumas, Bhimpore, Adajan- Pal and other areas near the industries of Hajira. Therefore, these areas are now witnessing development riding on the progress of BRTS corridor, Sachin and Trade Centre projects," said a builder who has a five 40-metre tower projects at Althan. South Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industries(SGCCI) president Nilesh Mandelwala said, "The Trade Centre project, which hashelped development in the area around it, will hopefully be completed byDecember 2009. If builders are to be believed, this area could become NaviMumbai of Surat." The Trade Centre, located near Sarsana village,will have 1.16 lakh sq metre pillarless airconditioned hall with a 90 +35 metrepillarless dome.