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2 lifts for 400: Noida resident questions idea of “luxury” high-rise apartments, calls these societies as 'chawls'
ET Online | April 27, 2026 5:38 PM CST

Synopsis

A Noida resident's viral video exposes the daily struggles of luxury high-rise living, where a single tower with 175 flats relies on just two lifts, often with only one operational. This leads to long queues and undermines the promised convenience, drawing comparisons to older housing systems and sparking wider discussions about urban residential infrastructure.

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A resident in Noida has gone viral after sharing what he described as the “hidden reality” of luxury high rise living, where basic tasks such as using a lift can become a daily challenge.

In a video posted on Instagram, the resident showed conditions inside his housing society, where a single tower houses over a hundred flats and a large number of residents. Despite this, the building operates with only two lifts, with just one functioning at a time, leading to long queues and extended waiting periods.

Concerns raised over infrastructure and convenience

The resident questioned the idea of “luxury” often associated with such apartments, pointing to the strain on basic infrastructure. He noted that one tower had 175 flats but relied on only two lifts, which functioned in shifts, with one operating for several hours before the other takes over.


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Expressing frustration, he compared the living conditions to chawls and said the arrangement undermines the promise of convenience that high rise housing is expected to provide.

He also drew comparisons with older housing systems, stating that while earlier setups faced challenges related to basic amenities, modern residential buildings are now dealing with different forms of congestion. He remarked that one type of queue has effectively been replaced by another.


Reactions highlight wider issue across residential complexes

The video has received significant attention online, with several users saying the problem is common in many residential complexes across Delhi NCR.

Many viewers shared similar experiences of overcrowded towers, limited lift availability, and long waiting times. Some pointed out that rapid construction and cost considerations often lead to compromises in essential infrastructure.

Others said the video reflects the gap between how such properties are marketed and the actual experience of residents.

The discussion has led to a broader debate on whether high rise living in urban India delivers the level of comfort it promises or simply results in vertical congestion.

“We bought our own independent house for one crore, and from top to bottom, it is entirely ours,” another user said.


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