31 May 2024

The Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) plans to launch an affordable housing project providing 6,500 residential plots in sectors bordering the upcoming Noida International Airport. The bulk of plots (6,000) measuring 30 sqm each are priced at INR 8 lakhs to promote home ownership among lower-income groups. A further 500 larger plots from 200-4,000 sqm will be allotted via lottery following guidelines. The scheme aims to enable housing for all socioeconomic classes as the airport area expands. Launch is scheduled post-elections once final approvals are in place.Read more

31 May 2024

After years of stagnation, the redevelopment of Topiwala Market near Goregaon railway station is set to progress with a new INR 151-crore tender issued by the BMC. Designed by Shashi Prabhu and Associates, the 16-story building will feature a market on the ground and first floors, parking podiums, an 800-seat auditorium, and residential floors for hospital doctors. Initial reluctance from vendors and legal hurdles delayed the project, originally started in 2017. After the COVID-19 pandemic caused further setbacks, the BMC terminated the previous contractor and issued a new tender. The modern complex will integrate market spaces, an auditorium, and residential units, prioritizing accessibility, sustainability, and community engagement.Read more

30 May 2024

Pune-based Roadway Solutions India Infra Limited (RSIL) has secured two major infrastructure projects in Maharashtra, valued at a combined total of INR 4,900 crore (USD 590 million). This win strengthens RSIL's position in India's infrastructure sector. The projects include constructing a 24.5-kilometer access-controlled Pune Ring Road and a 13.43-kilometer expressway connector between Jalna and Nanded. These projects, along with recent equity infusion of USD 120 million, boost RSIL's order book to over INR 11,000 crore. Senior VP B.K. Singh emphasized RSIL's commitment to innovation and excellence in transforming India's infrastructure landscape.Read more

30 May 2024

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) aims to add 10 new monorail rakes to its existing fleet servicing the 17km Chembur-Wadala to Sant Gadge Maharaj Chowk corridor in Mumbai. The procurement is aimed at addressing frequent breakdown-related delays on the line by improving service frequency and passenger capacity. With the induction of higher capacity rakes that can accommodate over 600 passengers, along with more frequent services, MMRDA expects ridership to increase substantially on the monorail network. The modernization of Mumbai's public transport is vital to support the city's growing population and economy.Read more

29 May 2024

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has awarded a INR 1,300 crore tender to NCC Ltd for the concretization of 215 roads, marking a shift from traditional asphalt to more durable concrete surfaces. This project follows a terminated INR 1,687 crore contract with Roadway Solutions India Infra Ltd (RSIIL) due to slow progress and a subsequent INR 64.6 crore penalty. NCC Ltd's bid represents a 10% cost reduction. However, the monsoon season and upcoming state assembly elections will likely delay project initiation. The BMC will use this period to finalize road sequencing, relocate utilities, and obtain traffic clearances.Read more

28 May 2024

The Adani Group plans a USD 3 billion investment to expand its presence in ports along the India-Europe trade corridor, reflecting confidence in global trade growth. Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ), which handles 600 million metric tonnes (mmt) of cargo annually, aims to increase this to 800 mmt in two years. This will be achieved through strategic acquisitions in Europe, Africa, and Southeast Asia. Funded by cash reserves, internal profits, and debt, this expansion aligns with India's vision of stronger trade ties. APSEZ's revenue reached INR 226,711 crore (USD 28.3 billion) in 2023-24, with a 50% net profit increase.Read more

24 May 2024

In a joint meeting with MRIDCL officials, the BMC approved the reconstruction of Curry Road, Matunga, and Mahalaxmi bridges. The preliminary phase is underway, aiming to alleviate traffic congestion and save time and fuel. The BMC will fund the project, with MRIDCL handling construction. Additionally, progress on Ray Road, Byculla, Tilak, and Ghatkopar bridges was reviewed. The Ray Road Bridge is 77% complete, targeting a November 2024 opening. Meanwhile, Olivant, Arthur, and S bridges were deemed in good condition and will not undergo immediate reconstruction.Read more

23 May 2024

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has outlined an ambitious 100-day action plan which would be following the recent elections. Key priorities in the plan include awarding over 3,000 km of new highway projects, constructing 1,700 km of roads, and implementing initiatives to enhance safety. The ministry is awaiting Cabinet approval for its proposed INR 20 trillion funding proposal to allow projects to progress. Other goals are operationalizing roadside amenities, launching alternative fuel vehicles, rectifying 'blackspots' and providing cashless treatment for accident victims. This comes as road accidents continue rising in India, with over 460,000 reported in 2022 alone. The ministry hopes its 100-day agenda, if implemented successfully, can boost highway development and improve safety.Read more

20 May 2024

Major flexible workspace and managed office space providers are planning aggressive expansion across India in 2024-25 to capitalize on rising demand. WeWork India, IndiQube, 315Work Avenue and IWG will add over 4 million square feet of new capacity primarily in tier 1 cities but also expand to tier 2/3 locations. They will enter newer cities like Guwahati, Kolkata, Bhubaneshwar, Delhi NCR and Hyderabad. The market share of flexi spaces is projected to grow from 7% to 12% by 2028, indicating strong potential for scale up.Read more

20 May 2024

As the Rajasthan government seeks to revive the industry, it is re-evaluating the state's land allotment policy for manufacturing MSMEs. While land auctions introduced transparency, they have driven up land costs, diminishing MSME competitiveness compared to preferential allotments based on circle rates with discounts. However, the previous preferential system also faced issues as land allotment decisions depended on RIICO officials' discretion. By benchmarking best practices from other states and incorporating technological solutions, Rajasthan hopes to develop a balanced land allotment approach that supports its large MSME sector through affordable land without compromising on transparency. Getting this policy right will be instrumental in realizing the state's industrial growth ambitions as envisioned in its upcoming investors' summit.Read more