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Hindustan Times
13-07-2025
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Khadki, Pune cantonment residents seek clarity on FSI norms ahead of PMC merger
Residents and civic activists from Pune and Khadki cantonment areas have raised concerns over the lack of clarity on Floor Space Index (FSI) norms, following the state government's in-principle approval to merge these areas with the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC). On Thursday, the Maharashtra government announced plans to merge the Pune and Khadki cantonment boards (PCB and KCB) with the PMC to improve civic services. (HT) On Thursday, the Maharashtra government announced plans to merge the Pune and Khadki cantonment boards (PCB and KCB) with the PMC to improve civic services. Similar mergers or conversions are proposed for four other cantonments across the state. As part of the transition, the two cantonment boards have submitted detailed proposals incorporating feedback from the defence ministry and local military authorities. These proposals stress that the FSI in merged areas should be capped at 1, citing proximity to sensitive defence establishments. Currently, cantonment areas have an FSI of 0.5, whereas PMC zones allow an FSI between 1.1 and 3, depending on location and transferable development rights (TDR). The cantonment boards have made it clear that the merger must not come at the cost of lifting FSI restrictions. 'No excision without FSI restrictions,' their submission states. Naval Kishore Ram, PMC commissioner, acknowledged that FSI is a critical component of urban planning but said no decision was taken during Thursday's meeting. 'Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis emphasised improving services in the cantonment areas, but there was no discussion specifically about FSI. At this stage, we cannot comment further,' he said. On properties under the Old Grant Bungalows (OGB) system, Ram said PMC would study legal and administrative complexities in the coming days. 'I plan to personally visit the cantonment areas. If required, PMC officials will conduct a preliminary survey to assess on-ground challenges,' he added. The merger, he clarified, would happen on an 'as is' basis regarding property assets. A senior official from the Directorate General of Defence Estates confirmed that the boards' proposals, especially those concerning FSI and defence security, have already been sent to the state government and are now awaiting feedback to be forwarded to the defence ministry. Many residents and activists argue that low FSI norms have stifled the growth of cantonment areas. 'We should get the same FSI as PMC areas. Only then can development take place,' said Rajabhau Chavan, a civic activist, who claimed that the Pune Cantonment is lagging at least a decade behind the rest of the city. Local businesses have also welcomed the merger, pointing to years of civic neglect. Lalit Gandhi, a shopkeeper on MG Road, said, 'This merger was long overdue. For ten years, our issues were ignored.' Hozefa Harnesswalla, another shop owner, echoed the sentiment. 'Infrastructure is crumbling—roads have potholes, gardens are unkempt, garbage disposal is poor, and health services are lacking. The merger is essential for real progress,' he said, also demanding action against hawkers encroaching on roads and footpaths. However, not everyone is in favour. Some long-time residents worry about losing the cantonment's distinct character. Retired army officer Ajit Kale said, 'Pune and Khadki cantonments are among the country's oldest garrisons. Their history, architecture, and culture are unique. All of this risks being lost in the merger.' Vinod Mathurawala, former PCB vice-president, emphasized that FSI and property rights remain key issues. 'These questions will shape the future of these heritage zones. All stakeholders now await further direction from the state and central governments,' he said.
Zawya
01-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
KCB, Equity race to prop up Tanzania subsidiaries
Equity and KCB, the two publicly listed banks and the largest in East Africa, maintain a stiff ri- valry in regional operations: they currently share five markets: Tanzania, Rwanda, Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and South Sudan. KCB also has an additional unit in Burundi. Equity will inject $20m into its Dar es Salaam operation in 2025, while in Uganda, where the minimum core capital for commercial banks was raised six times to Ush150bn ($41.2m) in Novem- ber 2022, the subsidiary will receive $10m. Conversely, KCB will allocate a sig- nificant portion of the National Bank of Kenya (NBK) sale proceeds to capitalise its Tanzania unit. The NBK sale, ex- pected to conclude in 2025, is projected to generate about $125.4m, based on a binding valuation of 1.25% of its cur- rent book value. 'If you look at KCB Tanzania's full- year performance, profit went up by 20%. With additional funding, it can generate much more, probably upwards of about Ksh4bn in profit. So we have to fuel some of our businesses,' says KCB Group CEO, Paul Russo. The Tanzania unit was responsible for revenue inflows worth $48.6m and a net profit of Ksh2.6bn ($20m) in 2024, mak- ing it the third most profitable external subsidiary after the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda. For James Mwangi, Equity Group CEO, the new capital injection for Tanzania, which generated $9.3m in net profit in 2024, is meant to support growth given its 'immense potential'. 'Most of the regional markets are gen- erating enough cash to fund their growth. However, the occasional moment comes when we realise we need to support them to move to the next level,' he explains. Tanzania's large population, its grow- ing GDP – which has outpaced Kenya – and its close connection to the $2.3bn Lobito Corridor rail project, make it par- ticularly attractive for lenders seeking growth opportunities. Kenya's GDP growth was the lowest in East Africa at 4.7% in 2024, compared to Tanzania's projected 5.4%. Last Oc- tober, President Samia Suluhu Hassan's administration announced an interest in joining the Lobito Corridor project to help connect the agricultural and min- ing countries with global markets via the Indian Ocean. Supported by a consortium that includes the US government, Africa Finance Corporation, and the AfDB, the Lobito project connects three mineral- rich nations – Angola, Zambia and DRC, where Equity is the second-largest bank. 'It [Tanzania] is a country that has 11 neighbouring countries, and it is impor- tant we align ourselves with its strategic position,' says Mwangi. Brent Malahay, the Group's Chief Strat- egy Officer, stated in November 2024 that in the next three years, the Group will be 'looking at strengthening its presence in the region (Lobito corridor) to create a complete ecosystem.' KCB's Russo says: 'For us, the growth opportunity today is Tanzania. It is mas- sive in terms of population. Just look at the good performance over the last 3-4 years.' Equity, with a total asset base of Ksh1.8trn ($13.9bn), has consistently maintained a superior market position compared to KCB in nearly all shared ex- ternal subsidiaries except in Tanzania and South Sudan. The Group, which began operations in Tanzania in February 2012, holds a modest 1.7% market share compared to KCB's 2.3%. Externalising domestic competition This new race to increase capital in Tanzania reflects KCB and Equity's growing competitiveness that started domestically, where a subdued eco- nomic context has hampered perfor- mance and pushed lenders to explore external options to mitigate risks. However, the Tanzanian market continues to present challenges, despite decades of Kenyan banks attempting to grow organically. Various factors, including lower integration, regulatory obstacles, and a lack of strategic acquisi- tions, have all contributed to the slug- gish penetration of Kenyan lenders in this market. The gradual shift of capital from Dodoma to Dar es Salaam – which hosts most bank branches – has also partly disrupted lenders' operations, especially regarding government-related businesses. Currently, NMB Bank and the Coop- erative Rural Development Bank (CRDB) dominate the Tanzanian market, collec- tively commanding approximately 43% of the total size. 'Tanzania is a challenging market. In 2025, the Group will be putting a lot of focus on Tanzania,' says Equity's Mwangi. While Equity expects its Tanzania units to retain all earnings to bolster near-term growth, KCB CEO Paul Russo anticipates dividend inflows from the Tanzanian sub- sidiary within the next two years. © Copyright IC Publications 2022 Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Daily Record
20-06-2025
- General
- Daily Record
Villagers appeal for final push to help renovate Stirlingshire war memorial
A total of 77 names of fallen local heroes from both World Wars appear on the Plean cenotaph - with campaigners looking to raise funds to clean up the monument. Community activists in Plean are edging closer to their goal of raising enough funds to restore and clean up the village cenotaph. Around £560 of the target has so far been raised thanks to an online crowdfunding appeal set up by Plean's Voice. And the stalwarts are asking people to donate what they can to give the effort the final push. In an online plea they said: 'We are looking to have the cenotaph cleaned up and all wording restored, to go along with our beautiful new planters and hanging baskets to brighten up our village. 'Our quote for this is £700. Can we as a village pull together and get this done, even £1 would help.' Plean's voice is a local charity set up by residents to make the village 'a lovely, more fun place to live'. The group hosts regular events throughout the year and has been successful in securing enhancements such as Christmas lights, and summer hanging baskets and tubs in recent years. Their latest project hopes to ensure their prized war memorial is given the attention it deserves. The cenotaph was unveiled on 6 August 1922 by General Sir Charles Munro, Bart., KCB, who commanded the Sixth Division in France during World War I. There are now 77 names of the village's fallen heroes on the memorial - 59 from WWI and 18 from WWII. Information published by the Imperial War Museum details how Mr Wallace Thorniecroft, of the Plean Colliery Company, presided at the unveiling ceremony in 1922, which was attended by 'a large concourse of people from the surrounding district'. Ex-servicemen paraded under Captain Thorniecroft, and other bodies present were the Boy Scouts, the Boys' Brigade, and the Girl Guides. Mr Thorniecroft mentioned that the great majority of the 57 men whose names were recorded on the memorial enlisted voluntarily in the early days of the war. General Monro meanwhile is reported as saying: 'From forge, from factory, from farm, and from shop the men came forward. The came with a high purpose; they saw the call of righteousness, the call of duty, the call of honour, and they never wavered.' He said Scotsmen had every reason to be proud of their representatives in all these fields of battle, and 'therefore it was fitting that they should come there that day to unveil a memorial, as worthy as could be, of their great achievements'. Newspaper reports at that time reported: 'It was said sometimes that memorials were not needed to these men, who unfaltering devotion to duty brought distinction to our arms. 'His [General Munro's] reply was that that it was highly necessary they should do all they could, by memorials or otherwise to keep before the younger generation the fine courage shown by those who came before them and to set them a high ideal.' Following the unveiling, Lady Monro placed the first wreath, and her action was 'followed by many relatives of the deceased'.
Irish Post
04-06-2025
- Business
- Irish Post
Global engineering consultancy Klohn Crippen Berger opens Irish office as part of European expansion
GLOBAL engineering consulting firm Klohn Crippen Berger (KCB) has opened an office in Ireland as part of its European expansion plans. The new site will be located in Naas, Co. Kildare and will support KCB's existing presence in Europe, serving mining clients in Ireland and around the continent. The company, headquartered in Vancouver, Canada, aims to establish a multidisciplinary consulting business in Ireland. The initial focus will be on building out its mining team with qualified professionals in geotechnical engineering, engineering geology, hydrology, hydrogeology and geochemistry. "KCB's strategic focus is increasing our geographic reach and growing our global workforce across all our key regions, delivering innovative solutions to clients in the hydropower, transportation, and mining sectors," said Ryan Douglas, KCB President & CEO. "The establishment of our Ireland office in Naas marks a significant milestone in our 75-year history and specifically for our European growth strategy. "As KCB continues to evolve with the industry, our unwavering focus on excellence, innovation, and sustainability remains central to our identity as a trusted partner to clients and an employer of choice for top talent." 'Strong endorsement' of Ireland With offices in 10 countries, KCB provides engineering, geosciences and environmental services for clients in the hydropower, mining, transportation, energy and infrastructure sectors. The employee-owned firm is renowned as a global leader in engineering, geoscience and environmental consulting. The expansion into Ireland is being supported by IDA Ireland, the Irish Government's inward investment promotion agency "IDA Ireland is pleased to welcome Klohn Crippen Berger to Ireland," said CEO Michael Lohan. "The company's decision to locate in Naas highlights the value of Ireland as a strategic location from which organisations can serve Europe and the rest of the world. "We look forward to partnering with KCB to support their future growth and development here." Peter Burke, Minister for Enterprise, Tourism & Employment, added: "This investment is another strong endorsement of Ireland's reputation as a hub for engineering excellence and innovation. "KCB's presence will not only enhance our capabilities in the engineering and environmental consultancy sectors, it will also create high-value employment opportunities for skilled professionals." See More: IDA Ireland, Kildare, Klohn Crippen Berger, Naas
Time Business News
31-05-2025
- General
- Time Business News
Where to Find Cake Rusks Online in Canada 2025
Cake rusks are a beloved crunchy snack in many Canadian homes, perfect for dipping in tea or coffee. These twice-baked golden biscuits blend cake-like sweetness with a satisfying crispness. In 2025, you can find cake rusks across Canada through grocery chains, specialty shops, and online bakeries. This post compares popular online retailers and explains why Kashmir Crown Bakery (KCB) is the top choice for cake rusk lovers. Many major Canadian grocers stock cake rusks under their labels or imported brands. Loblaw's stores, like Fortinos, Real Canadian Superstore, and Wholesale Club, often sell a 650g 'Crispy Cake Rusk' made in Canada. You can find these online on their websites or in stores. Similarly, Sobeys and other markets may sell the Britannia or Regal bakery versions of cake rusk. Bulk clubs like Costco and wholesale stores also rotate cake rusk products (often imported from India or Pakistan). These grocery offerings are convenient for routine shopping. However, they are usually basic varieties with standard flavors (plain or sweet bread). If you want something special or authentic, you may look beyond the chains. Aside from big supermarkets, many specialty shops and bakeries in Canada sell cake rusks. These often highlight quality ingredients and traditional recipes. Below are some trusted online retailers and bakeries: Crispy Just Baked (Ontario) A Toronto-based bakery that packages cake rusk in clear trays (see image). The company is proud of its quality. Their products are made in SQF-certified facilities and meet strict international quality standards.' Customers can buy Crispy Just Baked cake rusks online or in select stores. A Toronto bakery's packaged cake rusk. Many local bakeries, like Crispy Just Baked, make their cake rusks using high-quality methods. Surati's cake rusk is marketed as a Canadian-made treat. They say it's made from 'the finest ingredients and baked to perfection.' This creates a snack that is 'crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside,' with a sweet, tasty flavor. You can order Surati cake rusk on their website, which serves customers nationwide. Mirchi Masalay (Edmonton/Online) This Middle Eastern and South Asian grocery sells various brands of cake rusks. For example, Mirchi has TWI Crispy Cake Rusk (650g). It's called an 'all-natural' snack and has the 'just right amount of crunchiness' for a tasty bite. This shows how specialty grocers emphasize health and flavor in cake rusks. South Asian Central (Toronto) An online marketplace for South Asian foods. They carry KCB Cake Rusk Special (283g), among others. KCB cake rusk is described as 'the most exceptional quality handmade cake rusk.' It features a buttery, creamy batter and is baked twice for an extra crunchy layer. This retailer makes KCB products easy to find online. Other sources include local ethnic stores (e.g. Iqbal Foods, which sells Jazaa Cake Rusk) and international grocers. and Instacart also list cake rusks, ranging from Karachi Bakery to Bajaj brands. When shopping online, look for fresh production dates and reputable sellers for the best quality. Among all these options, Kashmir Crown Bakery (KCB) stands out as a customer favorite for cake rusks. KCB started with a simple goal: to offer real South Asian baked goods in North America. It is famous for its quality products and wide range of flavors. Their KCB Cake Rusk is especially popular because it combines authenticity with great taste. KCB's product page calls their Cake Rusk 'super crispy, golden-brown, and oh-so-yummy.' It's twice-baked for a rich, buttery finish. This is exactly the kind of crunchy, flavorful rusk many people want. KCB also offers many flavors: Fruit, Coconut, Almond, Fennel, and even No-Sugar-Added or Vegetarian versions. This range lets you enjoy classic cake rusks or try something new. KCB's South Asian roots ensure the snacks taste authentic. One product description mentions that their cake rusk is made from a buttery batter. It is baked twice for the perfect crunch. In short, each piece has a satisfying snap, just right for dunking in chai or coffee. The company's long history (over 50 years) and focus on ingredients mean you get freshness and tradition in every bite. Twice-baked to add a 'crunchy, crispy layer' for extra crunch. Rich, buttery flavor described as 'oh-so-yummy' with a satisfying crunch. Authentic South Asian recipe and traditional methods. Wide variety of flavors (fruit, coconut, almond, etc.) Available to order online with Canada-wide shipping (freshness insured). Thanks to these qualities, KCB cake rusk often wins taste tests and fan reviews. It's a brand you can trust when you want real cake rusks. Ready to try the best cake rusks in canada? Ordering from Kashmir Crown Bakery is easy. Simply go to and browse their cake rusk selection. They ship across Canada, so you can get fresh KCB cake rusks delivered right to your door. Enjoy the authentic, crispy cake rusks that people love. In short, you can find cake rusks at many Canadian online stores. However, Kashmir Crown Bakery stands out for its quality and authenticity. Compare offerings at grocery or specialty stores, but for the truly crisp, flavorful cake rusks, head to KCB's website. Order now and taste the difference yourself! Explore NJ Social Media Marketing TIME BUSINESS NEWS
