Infrastructure

The Maharashtra government has announced plans to lease land for bus depots across the state for a period of 98 years, aiming to modernize public transportation infrastructure and attract private sector participation. This strategic move is expected to enhance operational efficiency, expand urban mobility networks, and improve commuter services. Officials emphasized that long-term leases will encourage investments in state-of-the-art facilities, promote sustainable transport solutions, and support the government’s broader vision of smart cities and integrated transport systems.

The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet has given the green light to the Etawah-Hardoi Link Expressway, a major infrastructure project aimed at improving regional connectivity and accelerating economic growth. The expressway, once completed, will significantly reduce travel time between Etawah and Hardoi, while linking multiple districts across central Uttar Pradesh to key economic corridors. Officials highlighted that the project is designed to enhance logistics efficiency, stimulate industrial development, and promote inclusive growth across both urban and rural areas along the route.

The Uttar Pradesh government has reiterated its commitment to creating a business-friendly environment for investors, with a strong emphasis on policy support, infrastructure development, and ease of doing business. Speaking at a recent event, MSME Minister Rakesh Sachan highlighted the state’s proactive measures to attract both domestic and global investors, particularly in sectors like manufacturing, renewable energy, and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Epack Prefab Technologies, a fast-growing player in the prefabricated structures and modular building solutions sector, has opened its initial public offering (IPO) for subscription. The issue, which seeks to raise fresh capital and provide partial exits to existing shareholders, comes at a time when demand for cost-efficient, sustainable, and rapidly deployable infrastructure is accelerating across India.

The Kutch region of Gujarat has emerged as the latest battleground for two of India’s most influential business conglomerates—Reliance Industries, led by Mukesh Ambani, and the Adani Group, helmed by Gautam Adani. Both groups have announced large-scale investments in energy, infrastructure, and logistics projects, transforming Kutch into a focal point of India’s industrial ambitions. While Reliance is channeling resources into renewable energy and green hydrogen, Adani is expanding its stronghold in ports, power, and integrated logistics.

Bengaluru’s ambitious beautification initiative has come under scrutiny as Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, prominent entrepreneur and biotech leader, publicly criticized the project’s planning and execution. Shaw highlighted concerns over urban sustainability, resource allocation, and long-term environmental impact, urging city authorities to prioritize functional urban development over aesthetics. Her remarks have sparked debate among civic authorities, urban planners, and residents, bringing attention to the balance between city beautification and practical infrastructure needs.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a strategic discussion with the CEO of HSBC to explore collaborative avenues for advancing India’s economic growth under the “Viksit Bharat” vision. The dialogue focused on leveraging global capital, enhancing digital infrastructure, and fostering innovation-driven sectors to accelerate development. Key areas included sustainable finance, investment in technology, and strengthening India’s integration into global trade networks.

The government’s decision to reduce the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on cement is poised to bring substantial relief to India’s infrastructure and real estate sectors. As cement is one of the most heavily taxed construction inputs, the rate cut is expected to significantly lower project costs, improve cash flows for developers, and accelerate stalled construction activity.

The Indian government’s decision to reduce the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on cement from 28% to 18% is poised to deliver significant relief to the infrastructure sector. Industry analysts suggest that this policy change could substantially lower construction costs for government and private projects, boosting profitability and accelerating project timelines. The move is expected to stimulate demand across segments such as housing, roads, and industrial construction, while providing a welcome boost to developers grappling with rising input costs.

In a landmark development in India’s industrial and infrastructure sector, Vedanta Ltd. has successfully outbid Adani Group to acquire a controlling stake in JAL, a major water resources and utilities company. The acquisition underscores Vedanta’s strategic diversification into water management and critical infrastructure, signaling its intent to expand beyond metals and mining. Analysts view this move as a calculated effort to strengthen Vedanta’s long-term revenue streams amid increasing regulatory focus on sustainable water solutions.