Lucknow: BJP’s Rajya Sabha MP Dinesh Sharma on Saturday said Lucknow is undergoing rapid transformation, with high-rise developments, better connectivity and rising prominence as an IT, startup and education hub.Speaking at the inauguration of the two-day Times Property Expo at Hotel Taj Mahal in Lucknow, organized by TOI and NBT, Sharma said the city’s growth reflects the vision of Viksit Bharat. He noted that improved infrastructure and expanding opportunities are attracting more people to the city, while govt is working on the sustainable development of the State Capital Region. Referring to recent fire incidents, Sharma urged builders to strictly follow safety norms and maintain credibility.In a panel discussion titled “Women as Key Decision-Makers in the Real Estate Ecosystem,” Pratishtha Innovation director Pragya Singh said women often take a more holistic approach to property purchases, factoring in not only budget but also vastu, fire safety, ventilation and proximity to schools, hospitals and playgrounds.Lakme Salon and Academies director Anita Mishra said women today have greater decision-making power, a shift that is benefiting the real estate sector. Infiniti Connect founder Surabhi Srivastava highlighted changing investment preferences among women. “They now invest in property rather than gold,” she said. Entrepreneur Garima Tandon stressed the importance of thorough research before buying a home.KGMU gynecologist Dr Amita Pandey said a person’s mental wellbeing is closely linked to their living environment. She advised buyers to consider factors such as green spaces, walking tracks, noise levels and water availability.The expo brought multiple real estate and allied services under one roof. Sponsors included Omaxe, Abhyudaya Celestial, Eldeco, State Bank of India and YONO SBI, Ekana Sportz City, MI Group, UP Housing and Development Board, and Electric Origin SUVs Mahindra.
