Oasis of calm

Just after MGF Mall on MG Road is a gate on the left. It’s easy to miss,especially on a weekend when the cars start spilling out of the mall and drivers leave their vehicles on idle at any space they get. If you spot the gate,enter and you will be quite surprised. Trees and plants,houses that are under three-stories tall,and roads that aren’t clogged with four-wheelers.

“Residents here have constructed their own homes on plots. All these new high-rises look the same to me. Even though our houses look different,there is some semblance of homogeneity,” says Sushant Lok phase I resident Supriyo Chaudhari.

Local property dealer Anoop adds that one of the most expensive residential societies also lies in Sushant Lok,the Laburnum. “There are 3-bedroom apartments as well as row houses. While the apartments,which have an area of around 3,300 sq ft,can be rented for Rs 80,000 to Rs 1 lakh,the rent for row houses can be upwards of Rs 1.5 lakh.”

While most associate Sushant Lok with the area between MG Road and DLF City phase IV,there are a two phases of Sushant Lok that still have scope for development. “While phase I and II of Sushant Lok have been developing for over 10 years,phases III and IV are relatively new. Property prices in the latter two phases are lower primarily because of their location. Phases I and II are closer to the metro line as well as to the more premium malls and shopping complexes,” adds Anoop.

“Most people looking for homes to rent,though they would like to stay in Sushant Lok phase I,will not be able to as there are no properties that I know of that are available. In any case,home-seekers prefer moving in to a society as there are several benefits — power backup,security,recreational activities,etc. However,those looking for a quieter place could find houses in phases III and IV. A single floor with two bedrooms spread over 2,500 sq ft can be rented for Rs 35,000,” says Anil Yadav of Property Needs.

However,Sushant Lok does have a problem when it comes to security. Incidents of robberies,snatchings and other criminal activities have increased over the years,says Chaudhari. “Several of my neighbours are elderly and they keep complaining about the safety situation. But I think that is the case with any part of this city.”

If you’re lucky enough to find a house in this place,move in quick,there are several others waiting in line. Who wouldn’t be when Sushant Lok manages to retain its peaceful aura while being in the midst of so much commotion.