Economy & Market

Greener Mining, Stronger Cement

Published

2 years ago

October 16, 2024

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Sustainable mining is shaping the cement industry’s path to environmental responsibility and paving the way for a greener future. However, it is an uphill task – one that requires technology, on-ground support and forward-thinking leadership. ICR looks at how companies are seeking to balance production demands with environmental responsibility.

Cement production relies heavily on the extraction of raw materials like limestone, clay, and gypsum, making the mining process a key component of the supply chain. However, traditional mining methods often result in significant environmental degradation, including habitat destruction, deforestation, and water contamination.
To address these issues, the cement industry is adopting sustainable mining practices that minimise environmental impact while ensuring resource efficiency. Techniques such as precision mining, water conservation, land reclamation, and the use of renewable energy in operations are being widely implemented. These practices not only help reduce the carbon footprint but also support biodiversity and ecosystem restoration in mining areas.
Pukhraj Sethiya, India Managing Director, and Jyotirmoy Saha, Senior Consultant, ReVal Consulting, say, “Mine planning is a complex job and requires extensive critical thinking along with technical competency. With a core focus on sustainability and resource recovery maximisation, our mine plans are built in ways that ensure long term gains for our esteemed clients. We deploy first principle thinking and create numerous design iterations which helps us in curating a comparative picture of the different ways of operating a particular mine. This involves defining the mine pit boundary first which is of prime importance to ensure optimum land requirement and utilisation.”
Sustainable mining is vital for the cement industry as it ensures the long-term availability of raw materials while aligning with global environmental goals. By embracing these practices, cement manufacturers can reduce waste, conserve natural resources, and contribute to a more sustainable production cycle, ultimately leading to enhanced cost efficiency and regulatory compliance in an increasingly eco-conscious market.

Impact of traditional mining
Traditional mining practices, often employed in the extraction of raw materials for cement production, pose significant environmental challenges. Conventional mining methods, such as open-pit mining, can lead to large-scale habitat destruction, deforestation, and soil erosion. The removal of vegetation and the disruption of natural landscapes often result in the loss of biodiversity and long-term ecological degradation.
One of the primary concerns is the pollution of water bodies due to the release of harmful chemicals and sediments, which can affect aquatic ecosystems and local communities relying on these resources. Air pollution, caused by dust emissions and the release of greenhouse gases from mining operations, contributes to climate change and affects the health of nearby populations. Land degradation and the generation of large quantities of waste materials also present significant environmental challenges.
Rajendra Bora, AVP – Mines, Wonder Cement, says, “Balancing raw material extraction with ecosystem preservation is one of our core priorities at Wonder Cement Ltd. We adopt a holistic approach to mining, integrating stringent environmental impact assessments before beginning operations. This allows us to plan our extraction activities in ways that minimise disruption to local ecosystems. For example, we have implemented controlled blasting techniques and utilised buffer zones to protect wildlife and vegetation. We have also restored abandoned quarries into eco-friendly landscapes that support local biodiversity. Use of Surface Miner helps in preserving the natural ecosystem during raw material extraction.”
“Wonder Cement is committed to reducing its reliance on natural resources through the use of alternative raw materials. We have adopted the use of industrial by-products such as fly ash, slag, and other recycled materials to supplement raw material requirements in cement production. These alternative materials not only reduce the need for mining but also contribute to the circular economy by diverting waste from landfills. This approach underscores our commitment to resource efficiency and sustainability” he adds.
Key challenges in addressing these issues include the need for sustainable resource management, the high costs of implementing environmentally friendly technologies, and balancing economic pressures with ecological preservation. Additionally, restoring ecosystems post-mining can be complex and time-consuming, requiring extensive rehabilitation efforts.
The cement industry must navigate these challenges by adopting more sustainable mining techniques and implementing stricter environmental regulations to mitigate the ecological impact of mining activities while ensuring the long-term viability of raw material extraction.

Emerging technologies in eco-friendly mining
The mining industry is witnessing a transformative shift towards eco-friendly practices through the adoption of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and data analytics. These innovations are revolutionising resource extraction, helping reduce the environmental footprint while enhancing efficiency in cement production.
AI-powered systems can predict equipment failures, optimise mining routes, and improve energy efficiency by analysing vast amounts of operational data. Automation, such as autonomous vehicles and robotic drills, minimises human intervention in hazardous environments and reduces energy consumption. These technologies also contribute to precision mining, where resource extraction is optimised to avoid wastage, lowering emissions and reducing land degradation.
Dr Ing. Metodi Zlatev, Head of the Sales and Project Department, Haver & Boecker Niagara, says, “Industry 4.0 and innovative technologies are revolutionising cement mining operations by making them more sustainable and efficient. Our Quatro 4.0 system allows operations to manage their system in an optimal way. It automatically, effortlessly and securely provides data that can signal potential maintenance issues while enabling deep insights into machine productivity, scrap rates and more. This proactive approach allows operations to reduce downtime and costs, optimise their processes and contribute to the environment.”
“Furthermore, our Pulse condition monitoring system, equipped with advanced sensors installed on critical machinery, provides 24/7 monitoring capabilities. This continuous surveillance ensures that any deviations or potential issues are detected early, allowing for timely interventions. The accompanying mobile app provides instant access to this data, facilitating quick decision-making and further reducing unexpected downtime. By integrating such advanced systems, cement companies can achieve their goals of operational excellence and environmental stewardship,” he adds.
Data analytics plays a crucial role in monitoring environmental impact, helping mining companies track emissions, water usage, and biodiversity changes in real-time. This data-driven approach enables better decision-making and supports compliance with environmental regulations.
By integrating AI, automation, and data analytics, eco-friendly mining technologies are improving resource efficiency, reducing operational costs, and minimising the ecological impact of mining operations. For the cement industry, these innovations offer a pathway towards more sustainable raw material sourcing, aligning with global decarbonisation goals.

Role of explosives in mining
Explosives play a critical role in mining operations, particularly in extracting raw materials for industries like cement production. Traditional explosives, such as ammonium nitrate fuel oil (ANFO), are widely used to break rock formations and access valuable minerals. While effective, the use of such explosives raises concerns about environmental impacts, including air pollution, ground vibrations and habitat disruption.
In the context of sustainable mining, there is a growing focus on using eco-friendly explosives and blasting techniques that minimise environmental harm. Emulsion-based explosives, for example, offer a safer, more efficient alternative with lower toxicity levels and reduced emissions. Innovations in precision blasting, supported by data analytics and real-time monitoring, also contribute to more controlled and targeted explosions, reducing waste and energy consumption.
Shubham Choudhari, Chief Technology Officer, SBL Energy, says, “At SBL Energy, we leverage advanced technology to improve resource recovery during blasting. Our precision blasting techniques ensure optimal rock fragmentation, minimising the need for re-blasting and ensuring that a higher proportion of extracted material is of high quality and ready for processing.”
Sustainable explosives practices align with broader goals of reducing carbon emissions and preserving ecosystems around mining areas. By incorporating these advancements, the cement industry can continue to meet its raw material demands while maintaining a commitment to environmental stewardship.

Reducing carbon footprint
Reducing the carbon footprint of mining operations has become a priority as the cement industry aims to align with global sustainability goals. A significant shift towards the adoption of renewable energy sources for powering mining equipment is helping to achieve this. Traditionally, mining operations have relied heavily on fossil fuels, leading to high carbon emissions. However, by integrating solar, wind, and other renewable energy solutions, mining companies can reduce their dependence on carbon-intensive power sources. Solar-powered mining equipment, wind farms, and hybrid energy systems are increasingly being deployed to lower emissions and enhance energy efficiency.
Furthermore, electrification of heavy machinery, such as electric trucks and loaders, is contributing to a decrease in the use of diesel, significantly cutting operational emissions. These renewable-powered technologies not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also bring long-term cost savings by lowering fuel expenses and enhancing operational resilience against energy price fluctuations.
For the cement industry, adopting renewable energy in mining operations is crucial in minimising environmental impact, supporting the industry’s decarbonisation journey, and contributing to global efforts to combat climate change.

Sustainable water management and biodiversity preservation
Sustainable water management has become a critical focus in mining, especially within the cement industry, where efficient resource utilisation is essential. Mining operations can be water-intensive, but advanced techniques like water recycling, rainwater harvesting, and the treatment of wastewater are helping to mitigate water scarcity issues. Closed-loop water systems, which minimise water withdrawal from local sources, ensure that mining operations remain eco-friendly and sustainable.
Restoration of mining sites post-extraction is another key aspect of responsible mining. Leading practices include land reclamation, afforestation and soil stabilisation efforts that rehabilitate the environment after mining activities cease. These measures ensure that ecosystems are restored, enabling the land to support plant life and wildlife once again.
Efforts to preserve biodiversity around mining areas are equally important. Companies are increasingly conducting biodiversity assessments before starting extraction and implementing strategies to protect local flora and fauna. Creating wildlife corridors, reducing habitat fragmentation, and ensuring minimal disruption to natural ecosystems are becoming standard practices in sustainable mining, reflecting the industry’s commitment to environmental stewardship. These initiatives not only help in reducing the environmental footprint of mining operations but also support long-term ecological balance, aligning with global sustainability goals.

Alternative fuels in mining
The shift towards incorporating alternative fuels in mining machinery is gaining traction as industries, including the cement sector, strive to reduce their carbon footprints and environmental impact. Utilising alternative fuels like biodiesel, hydrogen, and compressed natural gas (CNG) in mining equipment helps reduce the reliance on traditional fossil fuels, which are major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.
One of the primary benefits of this shift is a significant reduction in CO2 emissions, aligning with global sustainability goals and the industry’s efforts to achieve net-zero targets. Additionally, alternative fuels often offer enhanced energy efficiency and lower operational costs over time, making mining operations more economically sustainable.
Furthermore, using cleaner fuel sources improves air quality in and around mining sites, promoting healthier working environments for employees and minimising the environmental degradation caused by mining activities. As cement production continues to grow, adopting alternative fuels in mining machinery becomes a key strategy for fostering greener, more sustainable mining practices.

Ethical supply chains from mine to cement plant
The cement industry faces increasing scrutiny regarding the ethical implications of its supply chains, particularly in sourcing raw materials from mining operations. Establishing transparent and ethical supply chains is essential not only for compliance with regulatory standards but also for fostering trust among stakeholders, including consumers, investors and local communities.
To achieve this, companies must prioritise traceability at every stage of the supply chain, ensuring that materials are sourced responsibly and sustainably. This includes conducting thorough due diligence on suppliers to verify their environmental and labour practices. Embracing technologies like blockchain can enhance transparency, allowing for real-time tracking of materials from extraction through to processing and delivery at cement plants.
Additionally, engaging with local communities and stakeholders is crucial for addressing social and environmental concerns associated with mining activities. By investing in community development and ensuring fair labour practices, companies can build stronger relationships and support sustainable practices that benefit all parties involved.
Ultimately, creating ethical supply chains not only mitigates risks but also enhances brand reputation and contributes to the overall sustainability of the cement industry. By committing to transparency and ethical sourcing, companies can help pave the way for a more responsible and sustainable future in cement production.

Challenges in cement mining
Cement mining, a critical component of the cement production process, faces numerous challenges that can impact efficiency, sustainability and overall operational success. Understanding these challenges is essential for industry stakeholders aiming to optimise mining operations while adhering to environmental and social standards.

Regulatory compliance: The cement industry is subject to stringent environmental regulations and mining laws. Ensuring compliance with these regulations can be challenging, requiring substantial investment in environmental management systems and processes.
Environmental impact: Traditional mining practices can lead to significant ecological disruptions, including habitat destruction, soil erosion and water contamination. Balancing the need for raw materials with environmental protection is a complex challenge that requires innovative practices and technologies.
Resource depletion: As easily accessible reserves are depleted, mining operations must dig deeper or explore less accessible locations, which can increase costs and operational risks. Sustainable resource management and efficient extraction techniques are critical to mitigating this issue.
Community relations: Cement mining often occurs in close proximity to local communities, which can lead to conflicts over land use, environmental concerns and social impacts. Building and maintaining positive relationships with local stakeholders is essential for the long-term success of mining operations.
Technological advancements: Keeping pace with rapidly evolving technologies in the mining sector is a challenge. Adopting new technologies, such as automation and data analytics, can enhance efficiency but may require significant investment and training.
Economic fluctuations: Volatility in the global cement market can affect demand for raw materials and, consequently, mining operations. Companies must develop strategies to adapt to market changes while maintaining operational efficiency.

Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach that integrates sustainable practices, community engagement and technological innovation. By proactively tackling these issues, the cement industry can enhance the resilience and sustainability of its mining operations, ultimately contributing to a more responsible cement production process.

Innovations on the horizon for sustainable mining
As the cement industry increasingly prioritises sustainability, innovative practices and technologies are emerging to transform mining operations. The integration of advanced automation, robotics and AI is optimising resource extraction, reducing operational costs and minimising environmental impact. These technologies enhance decision-making and operational efficiency, allowing companies to improve resource allocation and predict equipment failures, thereby minimising waste.
Moreover, innovations in eco-friendly explosives and the shift towards electric and hybrid mining equipment are significantly reducing the environmental footprint of mining operations. Sustainable explosives minimise vibrations and dust emissions, improving safety and reducing ecological disruption. The adoption of IoT-enabled remote monitoring systems further enhances operational efficiency and safety by allowing real-time tracking and management of mining processes.
The long-term integration of these innovations will not only support the cement industry’s growth trajectory but also help align it with environmental regulations and climate goals. By optimising resource efficiency and reducing waste, the cement industry can meet the increasing global demand for its products while fostering better relationships with local communities and attracting investment in green technologies. Embracing these advancements positions the industry as a leader in sustainable development, paving the way for a more resilient and eco-friendly future.

Conclusion
The future of sustainable mining in the cement industry is bright, driven by innovative technologies and practices that prioritise environmental responsibility. The integration of advanced automation, eco-friendly explosives, and IoT solutions is reshaping mining operations, enhancing efficiency and significantly reducing ecological impacts. As the industry embraces these advancements, it not only meets the growing global demand for cement but also aligns with sustainability goals and environmental regulations. By fostering a commitment to sustainable mining, the cement industry can ensure its long-term growth while contributing to a healthier planet and building stronger relationships with communities, ultimately paving the way for a more resilient and sustainable future.

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Economy & Market

The Road Ahead Begins Here

Published

2 days ago

August 11, 2026

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The future of India’s roads took centrestage at RAHSTA Expo 2026, where policymakers, contractors and industry leaders came together under one roof. The event blended thought leadership, technology showcase and industry recognition into a single powerful platform.

India’s roads and highways community gathered in full strength at the Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai, for the 16th edition of the RAHSTA Expo (Roads and Highways Sustainable Technologies & Advancement). Over two action-packed days, the event brought together policymakers, contractors, consultants, developers, equipment manufacturers, material suppliers, technology providers and investors to deliberate on the future of India’s ,infrastructure while showcasing the latest innovations driving the sector.

The event culminated in the prestigious RAHSTA Awards, where Shri. Ajay Tamta, Union Minister of State for Road Transport & Highways, felicitated organisations and professionals for their outstanding contributions to road construction, engineering, safety, sustainability and technology. With leading contractors, senior government officials, industry veterans and technology providers under one roof, the event reaffirmed RAHSTA’s position as one of India’s most influential platforms for the roads, highways, bridges and tunnels ecosystem.

Organised by FIRST Construction Council in association with ASAPP Info Global Group, RAHSTA has steadily evolved beyond an exhibition into a platform where policy, technology, engineering and business converge to address the opportunities and challenges shaping India’s next generation of transport infrastructure.

Beyond expansion, towards value

The conference opened with a thought-provoking address by Pratap Padode, Founder and Editor-in-Chief, Construction World, who observed that India’s highways sector has reached an important inflection point. Introducing this year’s theme – ‘From Expansion to Value: The Next Phase of India’s Highways’ – he noted that while the country has successfully expanded its road network over the past two decades, the industry’s priorities are now shifting towards building infrastructure that delivers greater lifecycle value, durability, safety and operational efficiency. With funding pressures, asset monetisation and evolving project models changing the sector’s dynamics, he said the focus must now move beyond kilometres constructed to the quality and long-term performance of every asset.

Dr Brijesh Dixit, Managing Director, Maharashtra State Infrastructure Development Corporation (MSIDC), reminded delegates that successful infrastructure delivery is ultimately a collective effort. Emphasising on collaboration between government, industry and engineering professionals, he remarked, “There is no loser in a winning team, and there is no winner in a losing team,” urging stakeholders to work together to deliver projects with quality, financial sustainability and technological excellence.

Delivering the keynote address, Bidur Kant Jha, Director, New Technologies for Highway Development, Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH), outlined the Government’s long-term vision for India’s highway network. Highlighting the country’s 6.26 million km roads network, he spoke about the growing adoption of digital planning tools such as BIM and GIS, bridge health monitoring systems and Integrated Smart Transport Corridors under the Vision 2047 roadmap. He emphasised that while India remains open to global innovations, every new technology must be adapted to Indian conditions before large-scale deployment.

Addressing the gathering during the awards ceremony, Tamta underlined the increasing role of specialised equipment and modern construction technologies in executing complex infrastructure projects across diverse terrains. Referring to challenging tunnel projects in Uttarakhand, he noted how advanced machinery has transformed execution capabilities, while also acknowledging the rapid evolution of Indian contractors into globally competitive infrastructure companies. Recognising excellence through industry awards, he said, motivates organisations to continually raise performance standards and embrace innovation.

Meanwhile, Dr Sanjay Mukherjee, IAS, Metropolitan Commissioner, MMRDA, highlighted that infrastructure development must increasingly focus on integrated urban mobility. Reflecting on Mumbai’s engineering journey – from its historic underground utility network to the Coastal Road and other transformative projects – he underlined that future infrastructure planning must seamlessly integrate roads, metro systems and public transport to create efficient, multimodal cities.

Uttar Pradesh takes centrestage

One of the highlights of the second day was Uttar Pradesh’s comprehensive presentation on its infrastructure-led industrial transformation.

Srihari Pratap Shahi, IAS, Additional CEO, Uttar Pradesh Expressways Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA), demonstrated how the state’s expanding expressway network is evolving into a catalyst for industrial development through integrated manufacturing and logistics clusters. Expressways, he noted, are no longer merely transport corridors but engines of economic competitiveness.

Building on this narrative, Deeksha Jain, IAS, Additional Chief Executive Officer, Uttar Pradesh State Industrial Development Authority (UPSIDA), showcased the state’s rapidly expanding industrial ecosystem supported by extensive expressway connectivity, dedicated freight corridors, airports, industrial townships and investor-friendly policies. She highlighted Uttar Pradesh’s strong manufacturing growth, expanding industrial land bank, plug-and-play infrastructure and increasing use of digital governance to facilitate investments.

Further underlining the significance of the platform, Deepak Kumar, IAS, Infrastructure & Industrial Development Commissioner, Government of Uttar Pradesh, remarked, “RAHSTA provides an excellent platform for states to showcase our infrastructure progress and investment ecosystem. Uttar Pradesh has transformed significantly over the past decade, backed by more than 34 investor-friendly industrial policies, and platforms like RAHSTA help communicate these developments to industry stakeholders from across the country.”

Ideas that shaped the industry conversation

The two-day conference featured seven panel discussions, each examining a critical dimension of India’s evolving roads and highways sector.

The opening discussion on ‘Financing Roads & Highways in a Capital-Constrained Era’ brought together experts from Cube Highways, NIIF, SBI Capital Markets, Centrum Capital and Bandhan Infra Fund, who examined how the financing landscape is changing. Discussions revolved around asset monetisation, InvITs, institutional investments and new funding structures, with panellists agreeing that better project preparation, transparent governance and predictable returns will be crucial for attracting long-term capital into infrastructure.

Attention then shifted to execution realities during the panel on ‘Contractors’ Perspective: Execution Realities, Risks & the Quality Imperative.’ Representatives from GHV Infra Projects, PNC Infratech, NCC and Maccaferri candidly discussed the challenges of delivering projects amid contractual complexities, land acquisition delays, rising costs and tight timelines. While execution pressures remain significant, the discussion reinforced that better collaboration across the project value chain is essential for achieving both speed and quality.

Day 2 opened with a technically rich discussion on ‘Designing Roads for Sustainability, Durability & Climate Resilience’. Experts from CSIR-CRRI, IIT Bombay, IIT Madras, Zydex Group and SRMB Steel explored advanced pavement technologies, recycled materials, climate-resilient designs and scientific construction practices that can significantly improve durability while lowering lifecycle costs. Sustainability, they agreed, must become an integral part of road design rather than an afterthought.

The subsequent session on ‘Bridges & Tunnels: Complex Engineering, Safety & Future Readiness’ highlighted the growing complexity of India’s infrastructure projects. Panellists discussed advances in structural engineering, digital monitoring, risk management and safety practices that are enabling the successful delivery of increasingly ambitious bridge and tunnel projects across the country.

Technology remained a recurring theme during the discussion on ‘Technology as a Risk-Mitigation Tool for Developers & Investors’. Experts explained how AI, BIM, drones, predictive analytics, digital twins and intelligent monitoring systems are helping improve project planning, minimise execution risks, strengthen quality assurance and enhance asset management throughout the infrastructure lifecycle.

The construction equipment panel brought together leading industry experts to examine how technology, sustainability and digitalisation are redefining construction equipment in an era of rising cost pressures. Discussions centred on enhancing productivity, reducing lifecycle costs and preparing the industry for India’s infrastructure ambitions leading up to 2047.

The conference concluded with an engaging CXO Forum on ‘Rebuilding Confidence in India’s Roads & Highways Sector’, where senior industry leaders emphasised that stronger governance, better project preparation, digitalisation, transparent contracting and closer public-private collaboration will be essential to sustain India’s infrastructure growth over the coming decades.

Technology and recognition under one roof

Beyond the conference halls, RAHSTA Expo reflected the technological transformation underway across India’s road infrastructure ecosystem. Leading equipment manufacturers, technology companies and material suppliers showcased advanced construction equipment, intelligent digital platforms, pavement technologies, structural materials and productivity-enhancing solutions designed to improve project efficiency and asset performance. The exhibition created valuable opportunities for contractors, consultants, government agencies and project developers to evaluate new technologies while interacting directly with solution providers.

The event also served as a celebration of excellence through the RAHSTA Awards 2026, which recognised outstanding achievements across road construction, contracting, materials, equipment, technology, safety, sustainability and infrastructure development. Presented by Minister Tamta, the awards honoured organisations that are setting new benchmarks for quality, innovation and execution across India’s roads sector.

RAHSTA Expo 2026 also received extensive support from across the infrastructure ecosystem. Alongside leading corporate sponsors, the event was backed by industry bodies including the Builders Association of India (BAI), Construction Equipment Rental Association (CERA), Consulting Engineers Association of India (CEAI), International Road Federation (IRF), CSIR-CRRI, CILT India, All India Transporters Welfare Association, Hydraulic Trailer Owners Association (HTOA), Gujarat Contractors Association, Bitumen Forum, Fluid Power Society of India, Indian Institute of Material Management, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya and Mumbai First, reflecting the industry’s collective commitment to advancing India’s road infrastructure.

As the curtains came down on the two-day event, one message resonated throughout the conference: India’s highways story is entering a new chapter. While expansion will continue, the future will increasingly be defined by smarter planning, stronger partnerships, digital transformation, sustainable engineering and long-term value creation. By bringing together the entire infrastructure value chain on a single platform, RAHSTA Expo 2026 once again demonstrated why it has become one of the country’s most influential forums for shaping the future of roads, highways, bridges and tunnels.

Economy & Market

Fornnax Names Lukas Baur as Authorised Service Partner to Bolster EU Operations

Published

3 weeks ago

July 23, 2026

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Strapline: Fornnax Technology has appointed NOBA Maschinenservice’s Lukas Baur as its authorised service partner for the European Union, strengthening its commitment to delivering fast, reliable, and localised after-sales support across the region.

Fornnax Technology, a leading manufacturer of industrial shredding solutions, has announced the appointment of Mr. Lukas Baur of NOBA Maschinenservice as its authorised service partner for the European Union. The partnership, formalised under the authorisation of Fornnax CEO Mr. Jignesh Kundaria, reinforces the company’s commitment to providing dependable, localised service support to its expanding customer base across Europe.

Strengthening Service Through Proven Expertise

With over two decades of experience in servicing, maintaining, and overhauling industrial shredders, Mr. Baur brings extensive technical expertise to the partnership. His capabilities span welding, hardfacing, shaft and knife rebuilding, complex assembly, hydraulics, and complete electrical engineering services, delivered in collaboration with a trusted partner company based in Halle/Saale.

Operating from Worbis, Germany, Mr. Baur is strategically positioned to provide emergency support across the European Union within 24 hours, covering an operational radius of approximately 1,000 kilometres.

Supporting this capability is a well-equipped service infrastructure comprising 12 Mercedes Sprinter service vans, a team of 24 skilled technicians, specialised bearing-change tools, a fully equipped hydraulic workshop, and a 1,000-square-metre facility with a five-ton crane track. Together, these resources position his team to manage the complete spectrum of Fornnax’s European service requirements efficiently and reliably.

Partnership Driven by Industry Insight

Having spent years servicing Eldan, Lindner, and Vecoplan shredders across the European recycling industry, Mr. Baur’s decision to collaborate with Fornnax is rooted in his understanding of market needs and customer expectations. His experience has provided valuable insight into what recycling plant operators require—not only from their machinery but also from the service teams supporting them.

According to Mr. Baur, Fornnax’s reputation for robust machine construction, superior wear protection, and maintenance-friendly design made the partnership a natural fit.

The collaboration comes at a time when Europe’s tyre recycling industry is facing mounting challenges, including rising cost pressures, shrinking margins, delayed investments, and a shortage of skilled labour. Mr. Baur believes these conditions reinforce the need for technically strong service partners capable of delivering rapid, dependable support.

Commenting on the partnership, he said, “Fornnax, with its exceptional price-performance ratio and superior quality, has the potential to become a market leader in Europe. We would like to be their service partner in this journey.”

Comprehensive Support Across the Equipment Lifecycle

As Fornnax’s authorised service partner, Mr. Baur will oversee the complete lifecycle support of the company’s equipment throughout the European Union. His responsibilities will include installation, commissioning, preventive maintenance, emergency repairs, and spare parts support across mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical systems.

Looking ahead, he also plans to develop a centralised spare parts distribution hub for European customers, particularly if Fornnax establishes a warehouse facility in Worbis to facilitate faster deliveries. To further strengthen service coverage, Mr. Baur intends to expand operations by adding two to three additional service teams and vehicles each year, progressively increasing capacity across the continent.

A Shared Commitment to Customer Excellence

Highlighting the strategic importance of the partnership, Mr. Jignesh Kundaria, Director and CEO of Fornnax, said:

“We strongly believe that by continuously improving our service quality and customer satisfaction index, we can build long-term relationships with our customers. Higher customer satisfaction leads to greater trust, which significantly increases repeat orders and ultimately drives sustained growth in our sales revenue.”

This customer-first philosophy underpins Fornnax’s strategy of building a dedicated European service partner network instead of relying solely on remote support. With Mr. Baur joining this network, customers across the European Union will benefit from faster response times, expert technical assistance, and dedicated on-ground support from a partner with extensive experience in high-throughput shredding operations.

Mr. Baur’s appointment also reflects Fornnax’s broader ambition to establish itself as the preferred shredding solutions provider for the European recycling industry, marking another important milestone in the company’s international growth strategy.

Concrete

Nuvoco Vistas launches Limla cement plant, expands Gujarat footprint

Published

1 month ago

July 13, 2026

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Nuvoco Vistas opens a 2 MMTPA grinding unit at Limla, entering Gujarat and advancing its target of 35 MMTPA capacity by FY 2028.

Surat (Gujarat)

Nuvoco Vistas Corporation Ltd, a part of Nirma Group and one of India’s leading building materials company, has inaugurated the Limla Cement Plant in Surat (Gujarat), one of Vadraj Cement Limited’s (VCL) principal manufacturing facilities. The commissioning represents a key milestone in Nuvoco’s acquisition and restoration of VCL, while supporting the company’s expansion across the Western Indian cement market.

Vadraj Cement Limited is a subsidiary of Nuvoco Vistas Corporation Limited and has installed cement capacity of 6 MMTPA across its assets. The Limla inauguration therefore represents the first operational step in the acquired platform’s wider revival, while the Kutch facilities provide clinker supply, mineral security and coastal logistics support for the western business.

Nuvoco completed its acquisition of Vadraj Cement Limited, then under the Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process, after paying a consideration of Rs 1,800 crore in June 2025. VCL’s asset portfolio comprises a clinker unit at Kutch and a grinding unit at Limla in Surat. It also includes high-quality captive limestone reserves and a captive jetty at Kutch, supporting more efficient logistics. Following the takeover, Nuvoco began an extensive programme of restoration, refurbishment and expansion at both locations, leading to the commissioning of the Limla plant.

The Limla Cement Plant is expected to support a phased increase in sales volumes across Gujarat. It will also help Nuvoco supply neighbouring markets in Western Maharashtra and release cement capacity from its northern plants, which can consequently be redirected towards markets in North India. The plant will manufacture a full portfolio comprising Ordinary Portland Cement, Portland Slag Cement, Portland Pozzolana Cement and Portland Composite Cement. It will additionally produce the complete Nuvoco Duraguard range, including the premium Nuvoco Duraguard Microfibre product. The acquisition is also expected to generate operational synergies with Nuvoco’s existing plants at Nimbol and Chittorgarh in Rajasthan, improving logistics optimisation and market reach across important regional markets.

The grinding unit at the Limla Cement Plant was completed ahead of schedule, with 2 MMTPA of capacity now inaugurated to expand Nuvoco’s operating scale and customer reach. After Vadraj Cement’s assets become fully operational, plants in North and West India are expected to account for nearly 40 per cent of Nuvoco’s total cement capacity. This will broaden the company’s manufacturing network, strengthen access to high-growth markets and support its plan to increase consolidated cement capacity to 35 MMTPA by FY 2028, reinforcing its longer-term growth strategy.

Commenting on the development, Jayakumar Krishnaswamy, Managing Director, Nuvoco Vistas Corp Ltd, said: “The inauguration of the Limla Grinding Unit in Surat is an important milestone in Nuvoco’s growth journey and demonstrates our commitment to disciplined, value-accretive expansion. Gujarat is strategically significant for Nuvoco, with substantial opportunities arising from infrastructure investment, industrial growth, rapid urbanisation and continuing demand from the housing and construction sectors. The facility strengthens our regional footprint, improves operational flexibility and increases our ability to serve customers across northern and western markets with greater reliability and efficiency.”

He added: “Through the Vadraj acquisition, we have refurbished and restarted a strategically important asset, returning it to operations in record time through strong execution and collaboration between teams. The achievement demonstrates our ability to create value from acquired assets, fulfil our commitments and retain the confidence of stakeholders. It also highlights the strength of our project delivery capabilities and our continued focus on building sustainable, profitable growth over the long term.”

Nuvoco Vistas Corporation Limited is a building materials company whose vision is to build a safer, smarter and more sustainable world. It is among the leading players in East India and has a significant presence across North and West India. Nuvoco began operations in 2014 with a greenfield cement plant at Nimbol, Rajasthan. It later acquired Lafarge India Limited, which had entered India in 1999, followed by Emami Cement Limited in 2020 and Vadraj Cement Limited in April 2025. The company has also announced an expansion in eastern India through a new grinding mill at the Arasmeta Cement Plant, supported by several debottlenecking programmes involving equipment upgrades, process improvements and internal capacity initiatives. These developments place Nuvoco on track to achieve total cement capacity of approximately 35 MMTPA. The company reported total income of Rs 11,362 crore in FY 2025-26, reflecting its continuing growth trajectory.

Nuvoco operates a diversified portfolio across three segments: Cement, Ready-Mix Concrete and Modern Building Materials. Its cement portfolio includes Concreto, Duraguard, Double Bull, PSC, Nirmax and Infracem, covering Ordinary Portland Cement, Portland Slag Cement, Portland Pozzolana Cement and Portland Composite Cement. Its pan-India RMX business provides value-added products under Concreto for performance concrete, Artiste for decorative concrete, InstaMix for ready-to-use bagged concrete, X-Con covering M20 to M60 grades, and Ecodure for specialised green concrete. Nuvoco has supplied materials to projects including the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train, Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium in Rourkela, Aquatic Gallery at Science City in Ahmedabad, and metro railway projects in Delhi, Jaipur, Noida and Mumbai.