14 Nov 2024

Kanpur has dropped to the B category in the Smart City Mission ranking after scoring 8 out of 10 in the September state review meeting. Delays in projects and missed deadlines were flagged as major issues. Several projects remain incomplete due to pending approvals and halted construction. The District Magistrate has urged faster completion of these projects. The nodal officer has promised to resolve obstacles. This ranking drop highlights the need for stronger management of Kanpur's Smart City projects.Read more

13 Nov 2024

Apple is launching a large-scale project with its vendors to establish hostel facilities for 100,000 female employees across its Indian production sites, making it the country's largest worker-housing initiative by a single company. Developed through a public-private partnership, these facilities are projected to be operational by the end of the fiscal year. Inspired by successful housing models in China and Vietnam, the initiative aims to enhance worker safety and efficiency. Key players in Apple's ecosystem, such as Tata Electronics, Foxconn, and Salcomp, are developing residential units near production sites in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, with a particular focus on supporting a growing young female workforce.Read more

12 Nov 2024

The Rail Land Development Authority (RLDA) has launched the bidding process for 23 commercial units in Gomti Nagar, Lucknow, aiming to utilise railway land for economic growth. Located in a developing business district, the four-story complex near key landmarks will be auctioned via a Mega E-Auction on November 12, 2024. Bidders can access documents from October 9, enhancing transparency. The modern facilities include earthquake resistance, double-basement parking, and central air conditioning, making it attractive for investors. This initiative aligns with urban redevelopment trends, fostering local commerce and job creation while supporting Lucknow's transformation into a modern city.Read more

12 Nov 2024

The Uttar Pradesh government has announced plans to transform Agra into a "solar city," following Ayodhya's lead. The initiative includes installing 2,000 solar streetlights and 161 rooftop solar power plants (over 25 KW each) on government buildings. Newly constructed Sulabh toilets will also feature solar panels. In the first phase, Agra will see 600 solar streetlights and 50 mini masts. Aligned with the PM Surya Ghar Yojana, the scheme targets 1.3 lakh rooftop solar installations in Agra. The program offers subsidies, providing 60% support for systems up to 2 kW and 40% for 2-3 kW systems, aiming to make solar energy affordable and reliable.Read more

12 Nov 2024

India's top private port operators, JSW Infrastructure and Adani Ports & SEZ, are advancing INR 80,000 crore expansion plans to capitalise on anticipated trade growth. JSW Infra aims to boost capacity from 170 mtpa to 400 mtpa by FY2030, with significant projects in Odisha, Karnataka, and Maharashtra. Meanwhile, Adani Ports, targeting a 33% market share, plans a capacity increase from 627 mtpa, focusing on both domestic and global expansions, including in Vietnam and Dar es Salaam. Both companies are eyeing logistics and digitalisation to enhance efficiency, reflecting a strategic drive to meet India's rising demand for maritime infrastructure by 2030.Read more

11 Nov 2024

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in the NCR has established a GRAP monitoring control room to oversee pollution control actions in Delhi and surrounding areas. In recent inspections, over 7,000 construction sites were assessed, resulting in environmental penalties for 597 sites and the closure of 56. To reduce dust pollution, the deployment of mechanized road sweeping machines, water sprinklers, and anti-smog guns has been enhanced. Additionally, significant enforcement actions have been taken against non-compliant vehicles and illegal dumping sites in an effort to manage municipal solid waste.Read more

11 Nov 2024

BigBloc Construction has completed phase II of its manufacturing plant in Wada, Maharashtra, doubling its capacity from 250,000 to 500,000 cubic metres of aerated autoclaved concrete (AAC) products. This expansion supports the growing demand for sustainable construction materials and aligns with India's green building goals. BigBloc is also installing a 625KW rooftop solar plant to reduce its carbon footprint. Additionally, the company is investing INR 65 crore in a new facility in Kheda, Gujarat, aiming to produce another 250,000 cubic metres of AAC annually. These moves highlight BigBloc's commitment to sustainability and its potential for growth in the construction materials sector.Read more

11 Nov 2024

Starting 11 November, the UP government will open registrations for the Khurja Industrial Township in Bulandshahr, an 80-acre development designed to boost local industry and connect it to global markets. Located close to Noida Airport, this INR 430 crore project is set to support the "One District, One Product" (ODOP) initiative and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's vision for economic growth. With reserved plots for women and ODOP entrepreneurs, and extensive modern amenities, the township offers an ideal environment for small businesses to thrive.Read more

08 Nov 2024

After more than a decade of attempts, the Sabarmati Riverfront Development Corporation Ltd (SRFDCL) successfully auctioned development rights for a prime plot on the riverfront, raising INR 156.13 crore. A Mumbai-based real estate company won the bid, planning a mixed-use commercial building featuring offices, co-working spaces, and retail options. This landmark deal establishes a new land valuation benchmark in Ahmedabad. The plot will be leased for 99 years at a minimal rate, with construction expected to be completed within four years.Read more

08 Nov 2024

RIICO has proposed a new set of rules for the direct land allotment in Rajasthan's industrial areas, aiming to simplify access and lower costs compared to land auctions. The draft allows land allotment to entrepreneurs and MSMEs with government MoUs at reserve prices in select areas, excluding saturated zones. Projects are evaluated based on investment, employment, and timelines, with approvals potentially granted within three weeks. Applications are submitted online, and a lottery process determines allotment among qualified candidates. Beneficiaries pay 25% upfront, with the remainder in three-year installments. Compliance with a three-year production timeline is mandatory, with penalties for delays.Read more