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Delhi to hold FCC’s India Roads Conference on 12th Oct

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To be hosted at Hotel Shangri-La Eros, New Delhi, the conference will witness more than 25 experts, policymakers, and industry leaders discussing innovative technologies, sustainable practices, and funding opportunities that promise to revolutionise the road construction landscape in India.

Mumbai (India)

FIRST Construction Council (FCC) – an infrastructure think tank – will be hosting the 13th India Roads Conference (IRC) on October 12, 2023 at Hotel Shangri-La Eros, New Delhi, to explore new opportunities in the road construction business. To be hosted as a part of India Construction Festival 2023 (ICF 2023) along with Construction World Global Awards 2023 (CWGA 2023) and Equipment India Awards 2023 (EI Awards 2023), IRC 2023 will focus on transforming India’s road infrastructure by presenting an unique platform for networking, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration. 

India’s road development sector is poised for unprecedented growth, housing one of the largest road networks in the world, spanning over 6.3 million km. The National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) forecasts a substantial investment of Rs 111 trillion in infrastructure projects during fiscals 2020-25, with a a significant portion allocated to the road sector. Against this backdrop, the 13th India Roads Conference intends to discover the abundant market opportunities, the latest trends, and how the industry can capitalise on this thriving sector.

Renowned experts, policymakers, and industry leaders will converge to discuss innovative technologies, sustainable practices, and funding opportunities that promise to revolutionise the road construction landscape in India. Some of the confirmed speakers for IRC 2023 are Lt. General Harpal Singh, Former Engineer-In-Chief, Indian Army; Dr Manoranjan Parida, Director, CSIR-CRRI; Ajay Kumar Mishra, President, Dilip Buildcon; RK Pandey, Former Member Projects, NHAI & Former ADG, MoRTH; SK Nirmal, Secretary General, India Roads Congress; Premjit Singh, CEO – Transportation, Welspun Enterprises; TR Rao, Director (Infra), PNC Infratech; Hardik Agrawal, Director at Dineshchandra R Agrawal Infracon Pvt Ltd, Thumu Karthik, CEO, LivSYT (DevIndia Technologies); Pawan Kant, CEO, LTIDPL IndVIT Services Ltd (IM to IndInfraVIT Trust); and Palash Srivastava, CEO, IIFCL Projects among others.

The roadmap of the future

India currently has one of the largest road networks in the world, spanning over 6.3 million km. Of this, around 2 per cent are National Highways, 3 per cent are State Highways and the rest are part of the district and rural road network. Over 64.5 per cent of all goods and 90 per cent of passenger traffic move by road. 

India has seen significant growth in its road network over the last five years, as the government has given priority to this sector. For the financial year 2022-23, the Central budget allocated more than Rs 2.70 trillion to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH). The importance attached to the sector is also evinced by the fact that it accounts for approximately 18 per cent of the National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP). Various state governments are also developing critical road corridors as a catalyst of economic development. Lately the focus has been on road safety, green initiatives, digital transformation and augmentation of funding sources.

Explaining the significance of IRC 2023, Pratap Padode, President, FIRST Construction Council, said, “India, not China, has the second-largest road network in the world after the US, spanning about 63.32 lakh km. NHAI awarded total projects of 6,003 km with a value of Rs 1.26 trillion during FY23. A provisional target of constructing about 13,800 km has been set for 2023-24. This presents excellent opportunity for all the stakeholders in the sector. India Roads Conference 2023 will explore ways on how to build a robust, safe road network by using latest technologies while meeting environment norms.”

In line with the market trends, experts during the India Roads Conference 2023 will deliberate on following relevant topics:

  • Shaping regulations for safe and sustainable roads 
  • Revolutionising road construction with technology
  • Accelerating road infrastructure with better financing opportunities 
  • Safer roads: Innovative designs for enhanced safety 

Attendees can gain valuable insights from dynamic panel discussions, insightful keynotes, and cutting-edge innovation showcases. Thus, by participating in India Roads Conference 2023, delegates can stay ahead of industry trends, forge valuable partnerships, and contribute to building safer, greener, and more efficient road networks.

IRC 2023 is supported by Tiki Tar and Shell India (Silver Partner), Tata Hitachi (Equipment Partner), PNC Infratech Ltd (Associate Partner), and LivSYT (Technology Partner).

About India Construction Festival 2023

Organised by the FIRST Construction Council in collaboration with Construction World and Equipment India magazines, the 9th India Construction Festival (ICF) stands as a cornerstone in the construction and infrastructure industry. India Construction Festival serves as the single largest platform for celebrating India’s remarkable infrastructure journey, bringing together all stakeholders in the industry under one roof. This comprehensive approach fosters collaboration, facilitates knowledge sharing, and creates networking opportunities that are pivotal for the growth and development of India’s infrastructure sector. ICF 2023 will comprise three major events: 13th India Roads Conference, 11th Equipment India Awards and 21st Construction World Global Awards.

About FIRST Construction Council:

FIRST Construction Council (FCC), an infrastructure think tank established in 2003, focuses on providing the latest updates on the construction industry in India, and is dedicated to promoting its causes and needs. FCC provides a platform to promote the adoption of best practices and be the torchbearer for all policy initiatives that are needed to enhance the importance and welfare of the construction industry and the industry’s unified voice. FCC also hosts conferences/events like India Construction Festival, Metro Rail Conference, Infrastructure Today Conclave 2023, etc.

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Indian cement makers to invest $ 14.3 bn

The bulk of this growth will come from the top-three cement producers–Ultratech, Ambuja and Shree Cement

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September 6, 2024

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Indian cement manufacturers are set to invest approximately USD 14.3 billion over the next four years to increase capacity by 25 %. This move, driven by rising domestic demand, is expected to add an additional 160-170 million tons of cement production annually. The industry’s expansion will be predominantly funded through internal accruals, with minimal reliance on debt. The expansion is spurred by government’s massive infrastructure push, with plans to invest USD 1.7 trillion in infrastructure projects by 2030. According to S&P Global Ratings, the demand for cement in India is projected to grow at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7 % over the next four years, aligning with the planned capacity additions.
The bulk of this growth will come from the top-three cement producers–Ultratech, Ambuja and Shree Cement, which will account for over 70 % of the country’s total capacity increase. This expansion equates to an annual capital expenditure of close to Rs 300 billion, which will be more than double the average annual capex of the past decade. The leading cement companies, which produce 70 % of India’s total cement output, are in a strong financial position to support this expansion. Rising cement prices have bolstered their balance sheets, allowing them to reduce debt significantly while maintaining robust cash flows.

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SEBI Places JSW Cement’s Rs.4,000 Cr IPO on Hold

SEBI halts JSW Cement’s ?4,000 crore IPO.

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3 days ago

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September 4, 2024

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The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has placed the proposed ?4,000 crore Initial Public Offering (IPO) of JSW Cement on hold, citing regulatory concerns. This development comes as a significant pause in the cement manufacturer’s plans to raise capital through the public markets, a move that was expected to bolster its expansion and growth strategies in the competitive construction sector.

IPO Overview: JSW Cement, a key player in the Indian cement industry, had announced its intentions to launch a ?4,000 crore IPO. The offering was aimed at raising funds to support the company’s ongoing expansion projects, reduce debt, and improve operational efficiency.

SEBI’s Decision: SEBI, the regulatory body overseeing the capital markets in India, has decided to withhold its approval for the IPO. The decision was made after careful scrutiny of the draft red herring prospectus (DRHP) submitted by JSW Cement. While specific reasons for the hold have not been disclosed, it is understood that SEBI has sought further clarifications on certain aspects of the filing.

Impact on JSW Cement: The postponement of the IPO is likely to impact JSW Cement’s financial planning and expansion initiatives. The company had intended to use the proceeds from the IPO to fund new projects, including the construction of additional cement plants, modernization of existing facilities, and investments in sustainable practices.

Market Reactions: The decision by SEBI has led to a cautious response in the market. Investors and market analysts are closely monitoring the situation, as the delay could affect investor sentiment towards the company and its future fundraising efforts. The construction sector, which heavily relies on capital-intensive projects, may also be impacted by this development.

SEBI’s Concerns: SEBI’s decision to put the IPO on hold highlights the regulatory body’s commitment to ensuring transparency and investor protection in the capital markets. The regulator may be seeking additional information regarding JSW Cement’s financials, corporate governance practices, or other disclosures to ensure that the IPO meets all necessary requirements.

JSW Cement’s Response: JSW Cement is reportedly working closely with SEBI to address the concerns raised and to provide the required clarifications. The company remains optimistic about receiving the necessary approvals in due course and proceeding with the IPO as planned.

Industry Context: The Indian cement industry has seen significant activity in recent years, with companies looking to expand their capacities to meet growing demand. IPOs have become a popular route for raising capital, allowing companies to fund expansion and reduce debt. However, the regulatory environment remains stringent, with SEBI playing a crucial role in maintaining market integrity.

Future Prospects: While the IPO is currently on hold, JSW Cement’s long-term growth prospects remain robust, driven by its strong market position and ongoing investments in capacity expansion. The delay in the IPO may prompt the company to explore alternative fundraising options, such as debt financing or private equity, to meet its immediate capital needs.

Regulatory Environment: SEBI’s decision underscores the importance of regulatory compliance in the IPO process. Companies looking to tap the capital markets must ensure that their disclosures are thorough and transparent, meeting all regulatory standards to gain investor confidence.

Conclusion: The hold placed by SEBI on JSW Cement’s ?4,000 crore IPO is a reminder of the challenges that companies face in navigating the regulatory landscape. While this may delay the company’s fundraising plans, it also provides an opportunity to strengthen its disclosures and align with regulatory expectations, ultimately benefiting both the company and its investors.

JSW Cement now faces the task of addressing SEBI’s concerns to move forward with its IPO, a crucial step in its growth trajectory within the Indian cement industry.

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Smart Building Choices: Enhancing Life with Green Practices

Smart Building Choices: Enhancing Life with Green Practices

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4 days ago

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September 3, 2024

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As urban areas expand and cities continue to grow, the need for sustainable building practices becomes more pressing than ever. Today, more people recognize the importance of creating urban environments that coexist harmoniously with nature. The question we must ask is: Can we build cities that not only meet our needs but also embrace the natural world?

The Rise of Sustainable Building

The concept of sustainable building is not new, but its importance has dramatically increased in recent years. With over 5.3 billion square feet of green building space in India alone, the shift towards eco-friendly construction is clear. This transition isn’t just a trend—it’s a necessary evolution as we confront the environmental challenges posed by rapid urbanization.

Reducing Our Carbon Footprint

Buildings are significant contributors to carbon emissions, accounting for nearly 40% of global emissions due to construction activities and the use of energy-intensive materials like steel and concrete. In India, the construction sector is responsible for 30% of the nation’s carbon emissions and generates an astounding 530 million tons of waste annually. This waste could fill 200,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools, highlighting the urgent need for more sustainable practices.
However, sustainable building practices are helping to reduce these impacts. For instance, green buildings in India are already reducing energy consumption by up to 40%, with a significant portion of their energy coming from renewable sources. By 2030, these buildings are projected to decrease carbon emissions by 33-35%. This is a testament to the power of sustainable construction methods and the positive impact they can have on our environment.

Building Smarter with Sustainable Materials

The choice of materials plays a crucial role in sustainable construction. Traditional materials like steel and concrete are energy-intensive and have a high environmental impact. For example, producing new steel emits over 2.5 tons of CO2 per ton of steel. However, using recycled steel can reduce these emissions by up to 60%. Similarly, conventional concrete production emits about 1 ton of CO2 for every ton of cement produced. By incorporating eco-friendly alternatives like geopolymer concrete, we can cut down these emissions by up to 35%.

The Power of Local Materials

Another key aspect of sustainable construction is the use of locally sourced materials. Materials like rammed earth not only reduce transportation emissions but also offer excellent thermal insulation, reducing the need for additional heating and cooling. Rammed earth construction can lower embodied energy by up to 30% compared to conventional materials. This practice not only supports local economies but also minimizes the environmental impact of transporting materials over long distances.

Innovative Approaches to Green Building

Around the world, innovative sustainable building projects showcase the potential of eco-friendly construction. In India, several projects have set remarkable benchmarks in sustainability by integrating cutting-edge technologies, adopting eco-friendly practices, and prioritizing environmental conservation.
The construction industry is one of the largest contributors to environmental degradation. Yet, it also holds immense potential to drive positive change. By adopting sustainable building practices, we can reduce the environmental impact of construction and create healthier, more livable urban environments.
Integrating renewable energy sources into building designs is a key component of sustainable construction. Solar panels, wind turbines, and other renewable energy technologies can significantly reduce a building’s reliance on fossil fuels, cutting down on carbon emissions and promoting a more sustainable energy future.

Water Conservation

Water is another critical resource that must be conserved in sustainable building practices. Rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling, and efficient water fixtures can help reduce water consumption and preserve this precious resource. By implementing these practices, buildings can significantly reduce their water footprint and contribute to more sustainable water management.
As the construction industry continues to shape the landscapes of our cities and communities, it must embrace a more sustainable path forward—one that prioritizes the health of our planet and the well-being of future generations. The choices we make today in building materials, design, and construction practices will have lasting impacts on our environment and quality of life.
By choosing sustainable building practices, we are not just constructing buildings but also building a better future. We are creating cities that work with nature, not against it, and ensuring that our urban environments remain healthy and vibrant for generations to come.

Eco-Blueprints: Mastering Sustainable Construction

By integrating sustainable practices into every aspect of construction, we can reduce our environmental footprint, conserve valuable resources, and create healthier, more livable spaces. The future of urban development lies in embracing these eco-blueprints and mastering sustainable construction practices. The time to act is now, and the path forward is clear. Let’s build a future that enhances life with green practices and ensures a sustainable world for all. To dive deeper into how sustainable building practices are shaping our future, don’t miss our latest YouTube video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QYmRyVu-cLwF

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