Index
As we endure the sweltering heat of this summer, our community has successfully navigated through water scarcity, emerging well-prepared for the upcoming rainy season.
In this issue, we are delighted to provide you with updates on the ongoing work and progress across various fronts by the 77PAOA. Your unwavering support and active involvement have played a pivotal role in shaping our community into a vibrant and thriving place we proudly call home
We have had a reasonably incident free quarter and here are the highlights:
We have received good support from most of the owners and residents and as of date, barring a total sum of ₹2.35 lakhs from the following 6 owners/ Tenants (all from Tower B) we have collected every Rupee due on bills raised in the FY 23-24
Apartment Number Owner Tenant Amount due(in Rs)
B651 Mr. Henry Joseph Mr.Rajkumar Gupta ₹14,622
B702 Mr.Hanif Mohammed ₹33,148
B852 Bennet Coleman ₹24,988
B1208 Mr. N.V. Buty Mr. Vandana Arya ₹50,762
B1252 Mr. Vijendra Kedia ₹79,545
B 1451 Mrs. Rashmi Vinod Mr. Sumit Nagpal ₹32,101
Total ₹2,35,166
We once again request the above to please settle the overdue amounts and help the community manage the financial affairs efficiently.
In addition to the above, we are yet to recover DG back up charges to the tune of ₹85000/- from a number of apartments and are contemplating turning off DG back up by 6th May 24 to all apartments who have unpaid dues"
We have completed all the formalities in respect to the handover / Takeover of the Assets from the Builders
We have Fixed Deposits totalling ₹6.36 Cr as of date and last year we earned
a total interest of ₹40.77 lakhs subject to tax (including Accrued interest). This coupled with the Sinking Fund Collections that have been put in place should improve the financial position of the Association.
We were able to renew the building and other assets at a substantially lower premium of ₹8.75 lakhs (prev. year ₹22 lakhs) and would like to thank one of our owners Deepti for her help in the matter.
We are up to date on all our payments to vendors and service providers.
GST returns are filed up to date.
Based on the unaudited Income & Exp A/c, we expect the income over Exp to be in the order of about ₹30 lakhs and will be circulating detailed Income & Expenditure & Balance Sheets for your review at least 15 days prior to the forthcoming AGM.
We have also finalized the Budget the FY 24-25 which will be presented to the owners for approval by MC at the forthcoming AGM
Overall, it has been a satisfying year and we would like to thank our FM, Liji for her diligent contribution and Sreedhar, an external part-time help on Accounting matters for his immense contribution.
Please continue to pay your Association Dues on time to keep the wheels of the Association running!!!!!
Water is a critical and limited resource that has been a high focus area throughout the last 4 months. The Water Taskforce had its work cut out and put in significant effort through this period. Thanks are due to so many of you who came forward to volunteer and to every member of the community in coming together as we continue to work through a crisis situation.
A special thanks to Vijay Kaul who is exiting the Water Taskforce due to personal commitments after 6+ months of work on multiple projects. Thanks Vijay, you took ownership, worked at the ground level, and gave it your fullest. Your work is much appreciated.
Some of the key activities included
- Working on existing borewells to keep them in good health in anticipation of summer months
- Planning and executing on reactivating one of the dry borewells to reduce our dependence on tanker water
- Studying pump infrastructure and water consumption pattern with the objective of optimizing energy usage and saving cost
- Starting prep work for Ground Water Recharge to ensure longevity of our ground water (still a lot of work required here)
- Working through the ongoing water crisis and taking measures with a balanced view for the best of the community
- Working with Divyasree to keep focusing on BWSSB Water
Water Situation Today:
• Tanker supply is restored after a period of uncertainty and we are getting supply based on our shortfall
• Borewell yield is marginally down compared to the month of March.
• Borewell no 3 which was rejuvenated has had some hiccups due to a fault in the new Pump. We are expecting the pump to be replaced by vendor in the coming week.
Water Consumption:
• Since we revoked the 12noon-5pm water stoppage, water consumption has gone up and showing an upward trend.
• Below is Water Consumption for the period starting Mar 6 when the water crisis hit us. Other key dates:
o Wed Apr 3: 12-5pm water stoppage removed on weekends and holidays
o Mon Apr 15: 12-5pm water stoppage removed on all days
There is a clear indication of higher water usage post the stoppage which was constantly reminding us to conserve water. So the urge is to use the water more prudently, adopt conservation measures voluntarily and help reduce the consumption for the benefit of not just ourselves but also for the fellow Bangaloreans.
Water Quality:
• We are monitoring the water quality on daily basis and have put in place a process and timetable for backwash of filters and softener
To better synergize and expedite water related tasks, we have created three water subcommittees with single point focus.
Ground Water Recharge:
• Sub-Committee: Rajendra Orpe (Lead), George Thomas, Mayur and Harsha
• Rain water harvesting tanks have been cleaned and kept ready for monsoon
• Discussion on with at least three vendors on ground water recharging, and creating recharge wells. Working towards completion this activity before rain starts
Water Meters:
• Sub-Committee: Vibhakar Bhushan (Lead), Bharath Reddy, Ashwini Jain, Mayur and Harsha
• We have received three quotations and currently evaluating/studying them. As this is a major expense, we will need to work on the best way to execute the project. We expect to bring it to the general body in the Annual General Meeting with options.
Aerators and Water Conservation Awareness:
• Sub-Committee: Viren Ranjan (L), Mayur and Harsha
• We are continuing our efforts to ensure that every flat has Water Saving Aerators installed. Plumbers have been instructed to visit every flat to clean these aerators and ensure that they are functioning properly. In case you do not have aerators in your flat, our plumbing team will be happy to install new ones for you.
• Plumbers have also been educated to lower the water pressure below sinks and request residents to volunteer for this during their visit. Note: This will not impact your washing machine or dish washer functioning.
• We continue to monitor water consumption, tanker inputs on daily basis. Currently no plans of any water stoppage but when the situation arises, we will revisit.
STP water Re-Use:
• We approached Divyasree Projects team to check if they can use the STP water for construction and, in return, give us the fresh water from their borewell in 77 Life. Thanks to Senthil and Shafali from Divyasree who have agreed for this. We have erected a separate UPVC pipeline for STP usage for the projects team and we will start drawing water from Life borewell which is already connected to our ring. This will give us good relief.
WTP/STP Pumps and Panels:
• We have been working with Pump and Panel vendors to resolve the nagging pressure issues
• An audit of our consumption pattern has been completed through a knowledgeable third party
• As the matter and complex and complicated, we are taking opinions/suggestions from multiple experts before we make any concrete decisions on the same.
Divyasree informs us that they have been engaged with BWSSB team on the water connections and post escalations / discussions, they envisage that all the critical tasks and formalities will be completed by mid May. They expect to get sanction by mid June and the connection to be operational by end June/mid July. This is a delay of 3 months from their previous commitment and they are confident of meeting this deadline.
The MC evaluated multiple maintenance companies as potential service providers for 77 Place and 77 TCC. The process included evaluating capabilities, experience and proposed strategies for managing our complex, followed by detailed customer reference checks and negotiating charges/fees. Based on the exercise, the MC has decided to continue with VAR as our Facilities Management Partner for FY 24-25.
VAR has put in place a plan to improve service levels that is being regularly reviewed by the MC with senior leadership of VAR. This includes more robust backend processes as well as changes to the onsite team and practices followed including Biometric based attendance management system, QR Code based asset maintenance, Periodic assessment of electrical system through Thermography and Power Quality measurements.
The Automatic Number Plate Reader (ANPR) based entry and exit system at the Main Gate has been working well for us. However, we do find that a number of vehicles find their way to the basement even though they are not authorized entry. This is a huge security risk, besides being an inconvenience since it leads to improper parking, and increases the load on our security team that is manning basements.
We propose to install ANPR at the basement entry ramp to help with more effective basement access. You should see this happen over the next 2 months.
In anticipation of the monsoon (hope we get rain soon!), the PMT has worked on a Monsoon Preparedness Plan. This includes cleaning of all rain water passages and drains, closing possible areas of water entry to shafts and lift machine room, de-silting of storm water sumps in the basement, checking pumping systems, lighting arrestors, open light fittings etc. Together with flood preparedness, we hope that we will be better prepared for rains.
Snag Rectification
Based on the extensive de-snagging exercise carried out over the last 11 months, we are in the final leg of this important activity. The exercise ensures that all project related faults are rectified and the association takes over the property in good shape, subject to normal wear and tear in consonance with its age. We wanted to express our gratitude to Mr Venkatraman of B-642 for working tirelessly and diligently over the last one year on this project. Venkat's patience and maturity has helped manage several difficult discussions with Divyasree and he continues to be an asset to all of us. Thanks Venkat!
Thanks are also due to the Divyasree team who have been supportive and flexible in this exercise and collaborated as partners with a common goal.
Veneer Sheet Removal
The task of removing the veneer sheets from the building facade is in progress. This safety measure was crucial as loose veneer sheets posed a significant risk of detachment, potentially endangering both individuals and equipment. Therefore, their removal is necessary to ensure the safety of all concerned.
Pet Park
The holding tank under the pet park has been completed and the pet park restored. It is now ready and open for use by residents.
West Gate Access
As part of the work for West Gate Access, a new bridge needs to be constructed over the nala near the pet park. Work on this has started and will take 3 months to complete. This area has been barricaded to carry out work on the bridge.
Gail Gas Pipeline Rerouting
Widening of the nala and construction of the bridge has necessitated re-routing of the Gail feeder pipeline into 77 Place. This pipeline now runs in the services channel of the bridge and thereafter inside 77 Place near the walking path. This work has now been completed and the open trench near the nala close to the walking path was restored.
Flood Related Work
Flood related work that DS had committed is now complete
· Nala widening: Completed on the residential side of 77 Place
· Bridge on Main Spine: Completed. Beautification of the rotunda and near the entrance lane still pending
· Catchment Area under Pet Park: Completed; Pet Park is now open
· Vaswani Line bypass: Completed
· Boundary RCC Wall: Completed; Restoration work north of B Block with trees/plants in progress
· 50KL FRP tank for RWH, and increased capacity pumps in LB: Complete
Exciting news, residents! The CCTV implementation in our community is making steady strides, with full installation anticipated to complete in the next few weeks. Here's a snapshot of the progress:
Total Cameras planned - 149 Cameras (145 Cameras installed & working)
Total Cameras provided by DS in the perimeter - 14 Cameras
The comprehensive deployment of CCTV is an enormous undertaking, involving meticulous site scanning, pinpointing blind spots, selecting suitable cameras, rewiring infrastructure, adding routers, and ensuring complete coverage with optimal camera placement. A hearty acknowledgement and gratitude go to the dedicated CCTV team composed of Mr.SanjeevGhai, Ms.AnushaVenkat, Mr.ManishKedia, and Mr.RajeshSiddhana. Their commitment and ongoing efforts in planning, execution, and testing are truly commendable.
Our security cabin at the front is now equipped with 3 monitors displaying live feeds from these cameras, allowing our security team to keep a vigilant eye on key areas. These cameras have proven invaluable, particularly in the basements and lifts, where we've successfully eliminated unpleasant odors and improved hygiene. Additionally, they aid in monitoring and identifying any lingering car wash helpers or delivery personnel, enhancing overall security.
Your safety is our priority, and we're committed to creating a secure and comfortable environment for all. Stay tuned for more updates!
The Wi-Fi connectivity in both the Upper Basement (UB) and Lower Basement (LB), as well as in the Club House, has been fully established and is operational in all aspects. The connection is functioning well and is being monitored closely.
Exciting developments are underway in our community's green spaces! Here's a brief update from the landscaping team:
Lawn & Landscape Maintenance: Despite enduring the hottest summer on record, our team tirelessly toiled under the sun, ensuring our greenery thrived with extra watering and meticulous care.
Podium Transformation: Adjacent to the solarium, our podiums now burst with the vibrant hues of Hibiscus and Bougainvillea, elevating the visual appeal of our courtyard.
Revitalized Jogging Track: Upon completion of flood mitigation work and the handover of the jogging track area, our plants will find a new home, enriching the surroundings even more.
Community Vegetable Garden: The space behind D-block-DG Yard has been cleared for a community vegetable garden, with various greens already planted and flourishing.
Enhanced Areas: Building on the success of our solarium and podium enhancements, we're also greening up spaces near the security cabin at the entrance, the entrance roundabout, and the roundabout between B and D blocks.
Rainy Season Prepares Ground for Fruitful Additions! As we eagerly await the arrival of the rainy season, our plans for enhancing our landscaping are ripe with anticipation. Once the rain begins, we'll be planting multiple fruit-bearing trees across our community grounds.
Stay tuned for further green updates as our community flourishes with new life and fruitful endeavors!
Enhancing Community Security
In our continuous efforts to enhance community security, we have forged a close collaboration with Vars and Security Agency D1, focusing on boosting overall vigilance and responsiveness. Supervisory beats and patrolling have been intensified to ensure a heightened presence.
Moreover, we're diligently crafting Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for visitor parking and basement entry to streamline visitor management efficiently. Additional measures have been implemented to elevate the overall service quality provided by our security agency.
Mayur Koulavkar from Management Committee has assumed the role of Security In-charge, succeeding Rahul Dadu. We extend our gratitude to Rahul for his dedicated service in overseeing security operations for over a year and for his efforts in streamlining processes.
Volunteer Initiative: We're excited to announce the formation of a resident volunteer group dedicated to addressing pressing housekeeping issues in each tower. Now, every tower boasts a designated volunteer actively monitoring for any oversights and promptly rectifying any issues that arise.
Shaft Cleaning: We're currently in the process of cleaning the shafts to maintain a clean and hygienic environment throughout the community.
We encourage all residents to remain vigilant and observe their surroundings closely. If you notice any oversights or issues, please don't hesitate to raise a MyGate complaint. Our Management Committee (MC) diligently monitors these complaints and takes proactive measures to enhance our facilities based on resident feedback. Your contribution plays a vital role in maintaining our community standards.
Byelaws and Guidelines
A volunteer group has been established for easy communication among residents. Additionally, hard and soft copies of the Declaration of Deeds (DoD) and by-laws have been distributed. We're still in need of more volunteers to join this initiative and assist with various community tasks.
As we begin the new financial year, We're enhancing the structure within the cultural activity team, based on the learnings from the past year. With these new procedures established, we will no longer need the existing cultural activities volunteers group. The committee will devise Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for each activity and will enable PMT to execute and also will liaise with volunteers individually to provide assistance and assign responsibilities.
The 77Olympics team, supported by 77PAOA, organized a series of sporting events by strategically dividing the entire community into four teams. This initiative fostered a spirit of healthy competition and unity, bringing the entire community together in an encouraging atmosphere.
Thankyou for your unwavering support. We'll keep in touch with you and personally reach out for each upcoming activity.
Work Room: The Work Room is now prepared, equipped with six workstations featuring high-speed internet access, available for complimentary use by all members.
Meeting Room: Within the Work Room, a Meeting Room is also ready for member use. Usage of the Meeting Room is complimentary for up to two hours per session; thereafter, a nominal fee will be charged. Additionally, the installation of a TV for presentations is forthcoming.
Adishwar Mart: Following thorough vendor evaluations, the Club Committee has selected Adishwar Mart to replace Dus Minute. Fit-out work is underway at full capacity, with the grocery store anticipated to open its doors to members by May 10, 2024. Additionally, there will be a setup for vegetables/fruits near the Tennis court twice a week.
Air Conditioning for TT Room: Responding to member requests, the Club Committee has arranged for the installation of two air conditioning units in the TT Room.
Gym Expansion: Last month, the Club Committee expanded the gym area to include an extension right outside the existing space. Furthermore, new equipment has been ordered to enhance the facilities of our Town Centre Gym.
Badminton Court Lighting: Recognizing the inadequate lighting for proper badminton play, the Club Committee, in collaboration with volunteer teams, has finalized the replacement of the entire lighting system for the Badminton court to meet standard requirements. Completion of this project is anticipated by the first week of May.
In recent months, we've observed a few incidents within our community spaces that require our collective attention. Instances of littering, inappropriate use of lift facilities, and damage to playground equipment and sports courts by children have been noted.
We understand that children naturally love to explore and play, and accidents can occur. However, it's essential to instill in them a sense of responsibility towards our shared spaces, just as they would care for their own belongings.
We've noticed that many parents were unaware of these incidents, and have expressed surprise upon learning about these incidents. Let's collaborate to help our little ones understand the importance of responsibility for the things we all enjoy.
📌 Gentle Reminders:
Engage in regular conversations with your children about the importance of cleanliness and respecting common areas.
Encourage them to treat shared facilities with care and consideration for others.
Together, we can uphold a safe and enjoyable environment for every member of our community. Please be informed that any damages incurred will be the responsibility of the accountable unit for repair or replacement expenses.
Official Communication Channels
For efficient communication with the Management Committee, please use the designated email address: 77mcmembers@77paoa.com or raise a ticket through Mygate. Avoid social groups for official matters as the MC doesn't actively monitor them. Member opinions shared on social platforms are individual perspectives and not necessarily the MC's view. Your active engagement is appreciated, and we look forward to hearing from you via email or MyGate for a prompt response.