End Of An Era: Mumbai’s Iconic Air India Building At Nariman Point To Now House Maharashtra Govt Offices

The iconic Air India building at Nariman Point in Mumbai now has a new owner. The building was recently bought by the Maharashtra government from Air India Assets Holding Limited (AIAHL) for a whopping ₹1601 crore. The state government will now use the building to house a number of offices, many of which are operating from rented premises across the city.

Maharashtra Government Buys Air India Building In Mumbai

According to India Today, the decision to buy the Air India Building in Mumbai is expected to solve the long-standing space shortage problem faced by several state government departments in Maharashtra. The government plans to shift several of its offices to the newly purchased Air India Building.

The iconic 105-metre marble tower, topped with Air India’s trademark centaur, was once one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks. But now, it will no longer be called the Air India Building. This is undoubtedly the end of an era for Mumbaikars.

According to The Indian Express, the state has already transferred funds worth ₹1600 crore from the Finance Department to the Public Works Department last month. An agreement will be signed by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis with AIAHL.

Also Read: Suniel Shetty Loves The Maharaja Experience On Air India’s London Flight, Says It’s Topping The Very Best

State Government Offices To Be Relocated To This Building 

According to The Indian Express, once the agreement is signed, the government plans to complete internal renovations within a year. People working in state offices will soon have this building as their new workplace. The iconic building has a long history. It was designed by renowned architect John Burgee and constructed in 1974. 

The building was one of the targets of the 1993 Mumbai serial blasts. Plus, it has been vacant for years after Air India shifted its headquarters to New Delhi. The 23-storey tower stands along the Arabian Sea-facing Marine Drive and has been a standout feature of Mumbai’s skyline for more than five decades.

Also Read: CT Exclusive: As Mithibai Khau Galli Shuts After 50 Years, Mumbaikars Share Fond Memories

So, Mumbaikars, tell us,  are you ready for this change in the city?

Cover Image Courtesy: @Vinamralongani/ X and @shubham_9909/X